Scotts #70a US stamps

#70a - 1862 Brown Lilac 24¢

Front
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Side
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Back
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24¢
Brown lilac

Printing Method: Engraved
Printer: National Bank Note Co.
Subject: George Washington
Plate #: 6
Quantity Issued: 400,000 (70, 70a, 70b, 70c)
Perforations: 12
Scott #: 70a
IEarliest date of use: February, 5th 1862

Value

Used
$35 - $85
No postmark with gum (MH)
$375 - $1,100
Full perfect gum, no postmark
no trace of stamp hinge mark (MNH)
No sales recorded

Fakes

Here is an example of a proof with perforations added and gum added to give the appearance of a genuine stamp.

Stamp usage

Up until January 1st, 1868 the rate to Great Britain was 24¢, the perfect use for this stamp. An example of this is shown above. The rate to Great Britain was then lowered to 12¢ thus making the 24¢ stamp only useful as a make up stamp for expensive postage.

Identification

The 24¢ Washington is not the easiest stamp to identify. Time and fading have altered the appearance of many, with the violet hue is particularly prone to fading. The above guide may be of some help in identifying which shade you have. Note that #109 is extremely rare, it is printed on harder white paper and its printing is crisper.