15c Brown & Blue, Ty. I (118). Exceptional centering with wide margins, deep rich colors and proof-like impressions, unobtrusive cancel with rim of circular datestamp at edge -- leaves design clearly visible

EXTREMELY FINE GEM. A SUPERB USED EXAMPLE OF THE 15-CENT TYPE I 1869 PICTORIAL ISSUE, GRADED SUPERB 98 BY P.S.E.

In his book on the 1869 Pictorial Issue, Jonathan Rose noted that essays were made for both the Type I and Type II designs prior to the time the stamps were issued. The stamps were fed through the press twice -- first for the vignette and then for the frame. The challenge for the printers was to properly align the vignette when printing the frame. Apparently, the addition of the diamond marker at top center of the Type II design made it easier to accomplish this task. It also made any misalignment less noticeable. Type II stamps appeared within days of the EDU for Type I and are much more common.

With 2003 P.F. and 2009 P.S.E. certificates (Superb 98; SMQ $12,000.00). This is the only Scott 118 at this grade with just two graded higher (both 98J and both more heavily cancelled).

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