1866 20k black, red brown, perforated 12, unused with full original gum, hinge remnants, well centered, with intact perforations on all sides, signed Bernichon, Paris etc., very fine. There are about 10 of these recorded, most plagued by small defects. This example is absolutely sound, unusually fresh, certainly one of the best known, with 2009 Buchsbayew certificate (this example last sold in a 2009 Cherrystone Auction for $46,000 including buyer's premium) (Zagorsky T1, 2,500,000Rub ($38,150)) (Cat No. YT 1) (Image)

Est.$20,000

1867 10k on 20k black, red brown, perforated 12, unused with original gum, hinge remnants, well centered, with intact perforations on all sides, fine and very rare, with 1997 Sorani certificate (Zagorsky T2, 125,000Rub ($1907)) (Cat No. YT 2) (Image)

Est.$1,500