'Four-of-a-kind' 1850s 1c stamp sheet could bring $20,000 in Massachusetts

Raynham, Massachusetts, US auctioneer James T McCusker, Inc will be offering more than 1,00 philatelic lots in its upcoming August 2-3 sale.

Among the auction's prospective highlights is a very good showing of 1851-7 issues. These include an enormous 10c Green with huge margins, light cancel & recent grading of ("extra fine") XF-S 95.

But if you're searching for a rarity, then look no further than this complete sheet of 1c (24) stamps.

They are from plate 10, and believed to be one of only four intact sheets known. (Although the lot notes concede that the 100^th stamp may have been replaced.)

Of the sheet's 100 stamps, more are graded "very fine" rather than just "fine" according to James T McCusker's description.

The 'four of a kind' complete sheet of 1c (24) stamps

Of these, many are never-hinged - although, if you look closely, you'll see some hinge reinforcements where perforations have been separated (apparently, this affects approximately 30% of the sheet).

In terms of overall condition, there are also some minor gum tone spots and "other trivial gum flaws". These affect several of the stamps with minor scuffing. The stamps of nevertheless fresh and well centred.

Described as "still a very presentable example" of this rare intact sheet, it will appear in James T McCusker's sale with a $20,000 pre-sale estimate.

Despite some imperfections, it will be interesting to see how this stamp does in the online sale considering its reputed rarity.

Watch this space for more news from the collectible stamp markets.