1c Blue, Type II, Plate 4 (7). Position 5R4, enormous margins all around including significant portions of adjoining stamps at sides, gorgeous dark shade and proof-like impression, neat strikes of circular datestamp cancel

EXTREMELY FINE GEM. THIS STAMP--GRADED SUPERB 98 JUMBO BY P.S.E.--IS UNDOUBTEDLY THE FINEST EXAMPLE EXTANT OF THE IMPERFORATE ONE-CENT TYPE II FROM THE TOP ROW OF PLATE 4. A PHENOMENAL STAMP IN EVERY RESPECT--THE MARGINS ARE HUGE ALL AROUND, THE COLOR AND IMPRESSION ARE INTENSE, THE CANCELLATION IS CLEAR AND THE PAPER IS FRESH.

The top row of Plate 4 produced Type II stamps with the complete design at top. These distinctive positions are highly regarded by specialists and described as "rare" and "beautiful" in Neinken (pp. 269-270).

As an amusing anecdote, this stamp was acquired by Jerry Wagshal from a Christie's sale in the mid-1980s. It was cut from a strip on cover before it was offered in the Christie's sale as a single. After buying the stamp for a record price of nearly $3,000, Mr. Wagshal asked if he could have the cover. It was given to him with a note expressing hope that the price he paid was not indicative of the cover's corner card--the Lunatic Asylum of Dayton (the cover still accompanies).

Ex Wagshal and Merlin. With 2010 P.S.E. certificate (Superb 98 Jumbo; unpriced in SMQ from Plate 4)

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