This week, New York-based Harmers International is offering its second Public Auction to be held at the ASDA Spring Postage Stamp Show.

This is a 695 lot auction of stamps and covers of the world, comprising 188 lots of United States including 30 US collections with estimates up to $20,000.

There is also a strong 100 lot section of Forgeries & Reproductions from both the US and worldwide whilst the British Commonwealth section offers excellent range from British North America.

Looking good... the 1861 5c brown stamp

Amongst the American stamps, collectors will be excited to see an 1861, 5¢ brown, of the first design (Scott 57) with deep rich colour and impression.

There is a truly insignificant "small corner crease at bottom right" which is in fact the corner perforation. A truly brilliant stamp, and very fine for this issue, the issue is catalogued by Scott at $30,000.

The 5¢ has been the only value of the "Premiere Gravures" that carries a catalogue value based on a stamp "with small faults" as so few copies are sound, and the auctioneer notes that their studies have found only six copies with original gum that are equal or better than the example presented here. The live auction takes place on April 7.