12c Black, Large Die Proof on India, Manuscript "Specimen" Overprint (69SP1). Die sunk on 104 x 138mm card with full die sinkage, matching impressions of die no. 444 and imprint at bottom, "Specimen" written in fancy magenta script diagonally across design, India is also tied to card by "National Bank Note Co. N.Y." embossed seal

VERY FINE. ONLY ONE SET OF THESE "SPECIMEN" DIE PROOFS WAS PRODUCED FOR THE 1861 ISSUE. THIS 12-CENT PROOF IS THEREFORE UNIQUE.

A similar set of die proofs is known for the 1870 National Bank Note Co. Issue. That set is also unique.

Ex "Belmont" (Siegel Sale 581) and Drews. Unlisted in Scott

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