10c Green, Ty. II (32). Mint N.H., deep rich color and proof-like impression which positively "jumps" off of the paper, gorgeous centering with perforations not just clear of the design, but the design is framed all around by a wide margin of bright white paper, the narrow-gauge perforations are uncharacteristically fully-formed all around

EXTREMELY FINE GEM. IN OUR OPINION THIS IS THE FINEST EXAMPLE OF THE PERFORATED 1857 10-CENT TYPE II IN EXISTENCE -- IT IS THE ONLY MINT NEVER-HINGED EXAMPLE WE HAVE EVER ENCOUNTERED. THE COLOR IS STUNNING, THE PAPER IS BRIGHT AND FRESH, AND THE CENTERING AND MARGINS ARE PHENOMENAL.

A review using Power Search, and also a review of our library's auction catalogues, surprised us. Perhaps the availability of 10c 1857 Type II and Type III stamps caused us to assume that the original-gum population is greater than it really is. However, as we looked more closely, we found very few original-gum singles. Virtually all have small flaws (creases being the most common) or are off center. There are several multiples containing Type II stamps in combination with Type III, but all seemed to contain either defective or off-center stamps and would not yield even one sound, well-centered hinged copy.

This is the first time we have had reason to do the research, simply because we have not offered a well-centered and sound copy since 1999, and even that stamp paled in comparison to the one offered here. This stamp, with its pristine Mint N.H. original gum, beautiful color, bright paper and wide margins, has emerged as one of our favorites in this collection of many extraordinary stamps.

With 1990 and 2000 P.F. certificates. Scott Retail as hinged

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