A Nice Corner for Franklin

[Pierre Tavlitzki]

In 1847, the first two stamps of the United States are issued. The 5c is the portrait of Franklin and 10c in the likeness of Washington.

The Franklin that Heritage will auction in Dallas this February 5 is the most beautiful copy that has survived to this day. It is in mint condition, still keeping its original gum with the exception of a small area that was slightly "kissed" by a hinging. The dark bown color is fresh as in the day of its printing.

Above all, it still has its margins to the right and bottom, not printed, which attest to its original position at the fourth corner of the plate and let us appreciate the quality of its slightly bluish paper. The other margins are sufficient, do not attain the image and have been cut cleanly. It is not perforated, of course, since the first stamp using this technique was issued in 1854, in the United Kingdom.

Philatelists like earliness, condition, print quality and good centering. Here they have everything they can wish. It turns to amaze me that the estimate is not higher: 100 K $.

[Pierre Tavlitzki]

I was surprised that the estimate was low, but I was wrong. This stamp in exceptional condition remained far below its estimate.

It sold $ 72 K including premium.