3c Purple (253). Mint N.H., brilliant color and proof-like impression showing every detail of the engraving, essentially perfectly centered with wide margins

EXTREMELY FINE GEM. THIS IS THE FINEST EXAMPLE OF THE UNWATERMARKED 1894 3-CENT BUREAU ISSUE RECORDED. A SPECTACULAR STAMP IN EVERY RESPECT, GRADED SUPERB 98 BY P.S.E.

As collectors of the First Bureau Issue know, great difficulty was experienced in perforating the stamps, either due to poor equipment or improper operation. Choppy, ragged perfs and poor centering are so common on this issue that it is often possible to separate the 1894 unwatermarked stamps from the 1895 watermarked stamps by the appearance of the perforations alone. This example, with precise centering, wide margins and perfectly formed perforations, is a true condition rarity.

Ex "Scarsdale". 1997 P.F. certificate no longer accompanies. With 2012 P.S.E. certificate (Superb 98; SMQ $10,000.00). This is the highest grade awarded to a Scott 253 in any condition (Mint N.H., hinged or used). It has been equaled by no others

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