5c Black Brown, F. Grill (95a). Deep rich color in the distinctive Black Brown shade, remarkably detailed impression showing the subtle details of the lathework engraving, choice centering and balanced margins, neat strike of circle of wedges cancel

EXTREMELY FINE GEM. ONE OF THE FINEST 1868 5-CENT F GRILL STAMPS EXTANT AND CERTAINLY THE BEST QUALITY EXAMPLE OF THE BLACK BROWN SHADE WE HAVE EVER ENCOUNTERED.

The 5c F Grill is known in Brown, Dark Brown and Black Brown. The first two are in the same color family (listed as Scott 95). The Black Brown is distinctly darker and is given its own sub-letter designation, Scott 95a. The Dark Brown is sometimes mistaken by collectors for the Black Brown shade, but a side-by-side comparison illustrates the significant difference between the two. On the Black Brown the engraved lines are especially clear, it has a proof-like appearance, and is significantly scarcer than the other shades.

With 1993 P.F. and 2016 P.S.E. certificates (XF-Superb 95; SMQ $10,000.00). This is the highest grade awarded and the only Black Brown stamp to receive this grade, with the next highest at XF 90 (ex Hansen and "Natalee Grace").

Image Magnifier / Download

PSE Population Report

Market data

Power Search for Comparables