Sale 1255 — The David W. Gorham Collection of Outstanding Used U.S. Stamps
Sale Date — Tuesday-Friday, 17-20 May, 2022
Category — 1861 Issue, cont. (Scott 71-72)
90c Dark Blue (72b). Intense color and proof-like impression in the distinct Dark Blue shade, nicely complemented by red grid cancel, gorgeous centering with wide and balanced marginsEXTREMELY FINE GEM. A SUPERB USED EXAMPLE OF THE 1861 90-CENT IN THE DESIRABLE DARK BLUE SUB-SHADE. THIS IS PROBABLY THE FINEST EXAMPLE OF THIS SHADE IN EXISTENCE. A MARVELOUS STAMP IN TERMS OF COLOR, CANCELLATION, CENTERING AND OVERALL EYE APPEAL.
The Dark Blue shade of the 90c is the only shade which trends towards the deeper end of the color spectrum, while the other shades--Blue, Dull Blue and Pale Blue--all trend towards the brighter end of the spectrum. In our opinion this is the most difficult shade to obtain in such choice condition. We have offered only two unused and 8-10 used examples since the mid-1990s, and most of those were faulty. The Philatelic Foundation has certified less than a dozen unused or used in the past decade, and most have either heavy cancels or flaws. The example offered here, with unusually choice centering, rich color, a colored cancel and in sound condition, is possibly the finest used copy in existence.
Ex "Natalee Grace". With 1988, 2001 and 2012 P.F. certificates.
