1c-$5.00 1902-03 Issue, Large Die Proofs on India (300P1-313P1, 319P1, E6P1). Complete set including the first and second (Shield) 2c designs and the 15c Special Delivery issued at the same time, die sunk on cards measuring approximately 150 x 200mm, rich colors, each proof signed by Bureau of Engraving Director William M. Meredith and dated between Nov. 14, 1902 (2c Washington) and July 14, 1904 (2c Shield), backs with toning and approximately six with even toning on front of cards but not affecting the India paper

VERY FINE APPEARANCE. A PREVIOUSLY UNRECORDED COMPLETE SET OF 1902 ISSUE LARGE DIE PROOFS, WHICH HAD BEEN IN THE FAMILY OF STAMP DIVISION SUPERINTENDANT JAMES H. REEVE FROM 1902 TO 2018, WHEN THIS SET FIRST REACHED THE MARKET. THIS IS ONE OF ONLY FOUR OR FIVE KNOWN SETS. A HISTORIC RARITY OF EARLY BUREAU AND ESSAY-PROOF COLLECTING.

The Shreves catalog of the first Roger Brody collection in 2002 stated that three complete sets of large die proofs are known, as well as one part set, which was divided up and offered individually in that sale. This set was unknown when the Brody sale was held. It was given by Bureau of Engraving and Printing director, William M. Meredith, to the Stamp Division superintendent, Major James H. Reeve, a Civil War veteran (who lost a leg in battle), as a token of appreciation for his service. He also received a Roosevelt Small Die Proof Presentation Album. This set remained with Reeve's ancestors from the first decade of the 20th century until 2018 when it was offered in Siegel sale 1192

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