#60 - 1861 24ยข First Design
See below for details
Basic Info
24¢
Dark Violet
Printing Method: Engraved
Printer: National Bank Note Co.
Subject: George Washington
Plate #: 6
Number surviving: not known
Perforations: 12
Scott #: 60
Issued: 1861
Value
Used
$14,000
No postmark with gum (MH)
$5,000 - $16,000
Full perfect gum, no postmark
no trace of stamp hinge mark (MNH)
No sales recorded
Used
Of the surviving stamps, two are cancelled, probably an experimental or control cancel applied at the Bureau
A proof?
This stamp was not issued, it was produced as a sample for the Post Office Department. It probably reached collectors via postal officials. It is considered to be a trial color proof by many, including Scotts which has reclassified it as #70-TC6.
Identifying #60
The paper of the premieres gravures is very thin hard and extremely brittle. The stamps are easily cracked unless handled very carefully. The paper is also quite transparent and much of the designs may be seen from the backs of the stamps.
The gum is very dark brown sometimes staining the paper.
The colors are very dark and rich and the ink heavily applied occasionally giving a blurred appearance though as a rule the impressions are very fine and clear. The color is different than the issued stamp.
Inspiration for the Design
The vignette was based on Gilbert Stewarts portrait of George Washington
The 1861 First Designs
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