$5.00 Dark Green (278). Mint N.H. wide top imprint and plate no. 85 strip of three, deep rich color and sharp proof-like impression, well-centered and completely sound

VERY FINE AND CHOICE. AN EXCEPTIONALLY RARE WIDE TOP MINT NEVER-HINGED IMPRINT AND PLATE NUMBER STRIP OF THREE OF THE $5.00 1895 WATERMARKED BUREAU ISSUE. THIS IS THE ONLY EXAMPLE WE HAVE OFFERED IN AT LEAST 30 YEARS.

A Power Search review reveals how rare Scott 278 is as a Mint N.H. imprint and plate number strip. The only examples we have offered since 1993 were a bottom strip of three (small crease, Sale 1244, lot 373) and a narrow top strip of three with h.r. in selvage (Sale 920, lot 157). This wide top Mint N.H. strip, in sound and centered condition is in a class by itself. It is also an excellent alternative to a plate block, of which only one exists (and catalogues $200,000.00).

With 2013 P.S.E. certificate (VF 80; unpriced in SMQ). Scott does not list a Mint N.H. imprint and plate number strip. Scott value for three Mint N.H. singles is $18,750.00, which does not remotely convey the rarity of this piece.

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