15c Black (77). Original gum in Mint Never-Hinged state, sharp proof-like impression on bright and fresh paper, wide margins

EXTREMELY FINE. AN UNBELIEVABLY RARE MINT NEVER-HINGED EXAMPLE OF THE 15-CENT 1866 ISSUE IN THE FINEST CONDITION ATTAINABLE. WITH THE EXCEPTION OF SOME SHADE VARIETIES, THE 15-CENT LINCOLN IS PERHAPS THE RAREST OF THE 1861-66 SERIES STAMPS IN SUCH CHOICE ORIGINAL-GUM CONDITION.

Throughout recent Siegel sales that have contained a remarkable group of original-gum 1861-66 Issues, we have made frequent reference to the rarity of these stamps in choice condition. With the exception of the rare 5c and 24c shades, our experience shows that the 15c Lincoln is the most difficult stamp to obtain in sound, choice original-gum condition. It is most often found without gum or with disturbed gum. Examples with full original gum are frequently off-center. The block of six (straight edge at left), ex Caspary, Lilly and Ishikawa, is well-centered with original gum, but our search of numerous other major auction sales produced few other examples apart from the block. Therefore, this stamp could be the rarest face-different design of the 1861-66 series in choice original-gum condition. As a Mint Never-Hinged stamp, it should be considered an even greater rarity.

Ex Silver Lake and Cohen. With 1999 P.F. and 2005 P.S.E. certificates (F-VF 75; unpriced in SMQ in Mint N.H. condition). Scott Retail as hinged

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