10c Dark Green, First Design (62B). Choice centering with wide and beautifully balanced margins, deep rich color and proof-like impression complemented by red grid cancel

EXTREMELY FINE GEM. A BEAUTIFUL USED EXAMPLE OF THE FIRST DESIGN 10-CENT 1861 ISSUE. AN EXTREMELY DIFFICULT STAMP TO FIND IN SUCH PRISTINE CONDITION -- ESPECIALLY DESIRABLE WITH THE RED CANCEL.

The 10c is the only denomination of the 1861-66 Issue that was actually issued in two types. Type I, Scott 62B, was printed from Plate 4. Type II stamps -- Scott 68 and its grilled counterparts -- were printed from Plates 15 and 26. It has been surmised that Type I was pressed into service to help fill strong demand for 10c stamps after demonetization of the earlier issue. The 10c stamps paid the transcontinental rate, the ship-letter rate and certain rates to foreign countries. The Plate 4 Type I stamps left very little space between the stamps for the 12-gauge perforation holes. Examples of Scott 62B are rarely seen with margins framing the design on all sides.

With 1985 and 2019 P.F. certificates (XF 90)

Image Magnifier / Download

Power Search for Comparables