1857, 1¢ blue, type Va, single and pair, pos. 47R5 (Relief E) and 23R5-24R5 (Relief C) with pos. 23 showing the Curl in "E" variety, tied by two strikes of blue "Petersburg Va. Sep 13" cds on cover to Kirkwood N.Y., flap with blind embossed "Wm. F. Spotswood, Apothecary & Druggist" fancy oval, original 1858 enclosure accompanies; small perf flaws, reduced slightly at left, Very Fine and scarce type Va usage; signed by Ashbook on reverse. Scott Nos. 24 var.  Estimate $500 - 750. $0 (Image)

1857, 1¢ blue, type Va, position 16R5, neat town cancel, precision centering amid wide margin, bright color and sharp detailed impression, Extremely Fine to Superb, a very difficult stamp to obtain in exceptional condition; with 2005 P.F. and 2005 P.S.E. certificates, the later Graded (XF-Sup 95, SMQ only lists type Va to a grade of 90 at $800). Scott No. 24  $300. $0 (Image)