An 1898 Trans-Mississippi 8c block of four made $140,000 at Robert A Siegel in New York on November 6, up 12% on a $125,000 valuation.

The finer example of just two recorded 8c plate number and imprint blocks, it is one of the rarest items of US philately.

The Trans-Mississippi commemorative stamps were issued to mark an exposition of the same title in Omaha.

They show scenes from the old west and are highly prized among collectors.

The 8c issue features an image of soldiers guarding a wagon train

Featuring a depiction of troops guarding a wagon train, the block is the only example taken from the top of the sheet and is imperforate horizontally.

It features the original gum, good colour and a detailed impression - with just light natural gum wrinkles and a minor horizontal crease.

A $2 Trans-Mississippi block of four sold for $80,000.

The design depicts the Eads Bridge in St Louis, Missouri - and was originially used on the admission ticket to the 1896 Republican convention where William Mckinley was nominated as the party's presidential candidate.

Very few $2 imprint blocks are known to exist, especially from the top of the plate.

It features the original gum and a strong impression.

A block of 10 $1 Trans-Mississippi stamps made $75,000 against a $54,400 estimate - up 37%.

Four corner stamps have been lightly hinged, while the remainder are mint and unhinged. Minor perforation separations have been reinforced.

We have a variety of rare stamps available.

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