Sale 1244 — The Arthur S. Przybyl Collection of United States, Confederate States and Hawaii
Sale Date — Tuesday-Wednesday, 9-10 November, 2021
Category — 1880-83 American Bank Note Co. Soft Paper Special Printing (Scott 192-205C, 211D)
5c Gray Brown, Special Printing (205C). Without gum as issued, deep rich color and proof-like impression, choice centering with well-balanced marginsEXTREMELY FINE GEM. A STUNNING EXAMPLE OF THE 5-CENT GARFIELD 1882 SPECIAL PRINTING. ONLY 21 ARE RECORDED, AND THIS IS ONE OF THE FINEST.
This elusive Special Printing was the subject of an informative article by William E. Mooz in the Chronicle, February 1992. His research provides strong evidence that the stamps recognized as Scott 205C are a small part of the 2,463 sold as Special Printings through the Third Assistant Postmaster General's office, and that regular issues were used to fill the backlog of orders for the 5c Garfield.
Our census of Scott 205C, available at https://siegelauctions.com/census/us/scott/205C , contains 21 examples. Only three have faults. Several are centered to one side.
Census no. 205C-UNC-10. Ex Wingate. With 2000 P.F. certificate. Accompanied by 1944 typed note with photograph affixed and tied by signature from noted dealer Edwin Mueller guaranteeing this stamp and a Scott 204.
