Sale 1032 — The Nick Kirke Collection of Gem-Quality Used U.S. Stamps
Sale Date — Tuesday-Wednesday, 23-24 October, 2012
Category — 5c-12c 1851-56 Issue (Scott 12-17)
Lot
Symbol
Photo/Description
Cat./Est. Value
Realized
3045

EXTREMELY FINE GEM. A SUPERB USED EXAMPLE OF THE 1855 10-CENT TYPE I IN THE FINEST CONDITION POSSIBLE.
The 10c Type I stamps are defined as having complete scrolls at bottom. They are only found on the bottom row of the plate (20 positions). For some reason, they were usually trimmed at bottom when they were separated, leaving a dearth of quality copies. This example, with its enormous margins, is an extreme exception to the rule.
With 2011 P.F. and 2010 P.S.E. certificates (Superb 98; SMQ $4,800.00). Only one has graded higher (at 98J) and only four others share this grade. In our opinion, this deserves a grade of either Superb 98 Jumbo or Gem 100 (see lot 3049).
900
4,500