Sale 983 — The Hampshire Collection of United States Stamps
Sale Date — Tuesday, 23 February, 2010
Category — 1870-88 Bank Note Issues
15c Yellow Orange (163). Original gum, radiant color, trivial natural inclusionVERY FINE. THE 15-CENT 1873 CONTINENTAL IS AMONG THE MOST ELUSIVE OF THE REGULAR BANK NOTE ISSUES IN THIS CHOICE ORIGINAL-GUM CONDITION.
Although defined by a secret mark, the 15c Continental, Scott 163, is very difficult to distinguish from its National counterpart, Scott 152. Certain shades and impressions of the 15c Continental closely match certain National printings, and the secret mark is often undetectable. However, the stamp offered here has what we believe are characteristics unique to Continental's work. The shade is very bright and yellowish. The secret mark in the upper left triangle is also prominently featured in this impression. There is simply no question that this is a 15c Continental. Off-center stamps are the norm, and original gum is a rare commodity in this issue.
Ex Hoffman. With 1990 P.F. certificate
