1851, 1¢ Blue, Type IIIa, neat town cancel, large to huge margins clearly showing wide break at top, beautiful deep rich color, Extremely Fine to Superb, a truly Exceptional Example of the 1851 1¢ Franklin Type IIIa, this being one of two examples to obtain this grade with only two higher; with 2013 P.S.E. Graded certificate (XF-Sup 95, SSV $4,750). Scott No. 8A  $900. $0 (Image)

1851, 1¢ Blue, Type IIIa, showing wide 4mm break in top outer line, town cancel, margins huge encompassing portions of adjacent stamps at left and bottom to well clear of scroll at upper right, deep color and sharp impression, Extremely Fine, a choice example showing a wide outer line break; with 2013 P.S.E. Graded certificate (XF 90, SMQ $2,300). Scott No. 8A  $900. $0 (Image)