12c Dull Violet, Grill (140). H. Grill, Mint N.H., rich color and proof-like impression, grill points are easily discernible on the front of the stamp near the base of the bust

VERY FINE AND CHOICE. THIS IS THE ONLY MINT NEVER-HINGED EXAMPLE OF THE 1870 12-CENT NATIONAL BANK NOTE GRILLED ISSUE IN EXISTENCE. THE 12-CENT IS THE MOST DIFFICULT DENOMINATION TO OBTAIN IN SOUND ORIGINAL-GUM CONDITION. THIS STAMP IS WITHOUT QUESTION THE FINEST WE HAVE EVER ENCOUNTERED. ITS RARITY CANNOT BE OVERSTATED.

A review using Power Search demonstrates exactly how scarce this stamp is in sound original-gum condition (ignoring, for a moment, Mint N.H.). The last example we offered was in 2002, which was described as having disturbed part original gum. The example before that was sold in 1993. We also undertook a review of major name sales. Walter Klein, for whom one of his five-part catalogue series was devoted to Bank Note issues, did not have a 12c with original gum. Caspary, Ewing, Lilly, Morris, "Angel" and Floyd never had one. Weisman had one, centered to top left, which is hinged. Zoellner had the unique block of four (the only recorded multiple).

This stamp was once the bottom stamp in a vertical pair (offered in the 1978 Rarities sale). It was separated into two singles so that this phenomenal Mint N.H. stamp with a clear grill could be sold on its own. The other is hinged and has no apparent grill (according to the description).

With 1986 and 2004 P.F. certificates. Scott Retail as hinged

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