3c Rose (65). Tied by perfect strike of Smiling Man in Straw Derby fancy cancel of Waterbury Conn. (unlisted in Rohloff) on small piece, clear "URY" and rim of Waterbury double-circle datestamp also ties stamp

EXTREMELY FINE STRIKE. THIS STUNNING WATERBURY "SMILING MAN IN A STRAW DERBY" CANCEL IS REPORTEDLY UNIQUE.

Among the most desirable designs carved by postmaster John W. Hill are the faces, such as the Woman in a Bonnet, Woman in Snood, Man Smoking Pipe and the Bridgeport Fireman. This remarkably intricate carving depicts a smiling man wearing a round-top straw derby. The configuration and minor details bear a close resemblance to the Bridgeport Fireman cancel used in April and May 1866, and it is probable that this device was carved and used in the same period. This came to light in 2008 and was offered in our Rarities sale that year for the first time.

With 2008 P.F. certificate

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