With much of the world not yet woken up to the joys of the adhesive stamp created in the UK in 1840, in 1847 America created two stamps which are now regarded as highly collectible: a 5 cent stamp bearing the image of Benjamin Franklin and a 10 cent example fronted by George Washington.
These are rare stamps now, but particular rare in good condition. An example of the 10 cent piece at Robert A Siegel's auction of the 'Hampshire' collection is exceptional.
 Mint condition 10 cent Black |
Not only does it appear to have almost all its original gum, but it also boasts full to large margins and intense colour. The only flaws are the trivial toned spots on face and in the top right hand corner.
This valuable piece has an estimate of $35,000, and might be expected to increase in value if its condition is preserved. As such it would be an attractive candidate for a tangible investment.
The sale also offers a dark brown variant of the 5 cent Franklin stamp, as well as the expected top lot of an 1856 Bright Red Brown 5 cent piece which depicts Jefferson.
The live section of the auction takes place in New York on February 23
