At the end of February, Robert A. Siegel is holding an auction dedicated to the US Revenue stamps. This collection, known for its stunning array of rare and unique revenue stamps, showcases the rich history and artistry of these often-overlooked philatelic gems.
It belonged to an anonymous collector, and has many fascinating items. We've found some interesting lots to share with you.
Green Imperforate Playing Cards stamp, valued at 3 cents (scott# R17a), offers unused condition without gum. It boasts large margins, particularly ample at the top, displaying a vibrant green hue with a detailed impression. This exquisite stamp is deemed EXTREMELY FINE, with very few unused specimens known to exist. It stands among the two finest examples, both in impeccable condition with four margins intact.
Research has unveiled that this particular piece marks only the third unused Green Imperforate Playing Cards stamp to be presented in sales since 1993, including Rarities sales dating back to 1966. It is speculated that the Scott Catalog may soon assign values to unused versions of First through Third Issue Revenues. In such an instance, the catalog worth of an unused 3-cent Imperforate Playing Cards stamp would surpass that of a used counterpart.
Originally from the Cunliffe collection, this stamp comes with 2008 and 2019 P.F. certificates, ensuring its authenticity and quality. Its Scott value remains as used, reflecting its rarity and desirability among philatelists and collectors alike. Estimated price: $30,000.
This is a block with 27 Probate of Will stamps. It is valued at $20.00. Offered in an imperforate format (Scott# R99a). It showcases big margins with a few touchpoints, highlighted by elegant handwritten cancels dated October 27, 1863. The vibrant color of them adds to their overall appeal, although a few expected wrinkles and tears may be present due to its size. For instance, one of the stamps displays an 18mm tear. This exceptional block holds immense value.
The Scott catalogue values it at $99,500. Estimated price: $12,500.
A rare find in philately is the 2-cent Green & Black on Green paper Proprietary stamp with the Center Inverted (Scott# RB2d). This particular specimen is in unused condition, lacking gum, and features rich color on a deep green paper. The vignette is clearly visible, with three wide margins and perforations clear at the right edge, showcasing its impeccable quality.
Considered a true gem among inverts, this stamp is deemed VERY FINE, standing as one of the two finest examples of the 2-cent Proprietary Invert on Green Paper, whether in used or unused condition. According to an independent census by Larry Lyons, there are a total of 13 known copies of this stamp, with one additional discovery post-census. Among these, nine are unused, yet most exhibit some form of fault. This particular stamp is among the select few in pristine condition within this scarce population.
Accompanied by a 2020 P.F. certificate, this stamp holds significant value in the philatelic world. Its scarcity and exceptional quality make it a prized addition to any collector's portfolio.
The Scott Catalog value may reflect its rarity and desirability among enthusiasts and collectors. Estimated price: $7,000.
Robert A. Siegel Auction Galleries is considered to be a prominent auction house. It specializes in philately material and postal history. Located in NYC, United States, it has a rich history dating back over 80 years. The Siegel firm has established itself as a leading authority in philately and the collection of stamps. Their auctions feature a great variety of valuable stamps and many postal items from around the world. They attract a global audience of collectors, investors, and enthusiasts that seek desirable philatelic items. Their expertise, integrity, and professionalism have earned them a reputation as one of the premier stamp auction houses in the industry.
