Sale 1245 — United States Stamps, featuring the Sacramento Collection
Sale Date — Tuesday-Thursday, 16-18 November, 2021
Category — 1870-71 National Bank Note Co. Grilled Issue (Scott 134-144)
6c Carmine, I. Grill (137A). Original gum, clearly defined grill with full dimensions easily visible from front, vivid color, perfect centering, light facial rub at upper rightEXTREMELY FINE GEM APPEARANCE. A RARE CENTERED ORIGINAL-GUM EXAMPLE OF THE 1870 6-CENT I GRILL.
The Scott U.S. Specialized Catalogue elevated the I Grills to major catalogue numbers beginning with the 2013 edition. For years we have differentiated between the two grill types in our auctions and pointed out the rarity of many of the I grills -- especially in original-gum condition. Now, with major catalogue listings, the I Grills have taken their rightful place alongside the 1867-68 Grilled Issues, which have long been differentiated in the Scott Catalogue. The 6c I Grill is rare in original-gum condition. We have offered only two others since 1999 and neither was as well-centered as the example offered here.
Ex Curtis. With 2009 P.S.E. certificate (OGph, XF 90; SMQ $16,500.00). Only two examples of the 6c I Grill have been graded by P.S.E. and this is the higher of the two (the other is VF 80). The example offered here is centered far better than a 90 grade -- no doubt points were taken off for the slight facial rub.
