1857, 5¢ red brown, type I, scissor separations with perfs trimmed at top and right, tied by "New Orleans, La., Nov 28, 1857" cds on cover to Mons, Belgium, red "New York, Br. Pkt., Dec 9" exchange cds, endorsed "Collins steamer" but sent via Cunard steamer Africa, blue manuscript "12" for 10 decimes British Sea Postage plus 2 decimes Belgian inland postage, transit and receiving backstamps, F.-V.F. and rare. Scott No. 28  Estimate $150 - 200. $0 (Image)

1857, 5¢ red brown, type I, town cancel, precision centering amid evenly balanced margins, rich vibrant color, Extremely Fine, an lovely choice stamp; with 2014 P.F. Graded certificate (XF 90, SSV $3,000). Scott No. 28  $1,100. $0 (Image)

1857, 5¢ red brown, type I, town cancel, exceptional centering amid nicely balanced margins, rich deep fiery color, Extremely Fine and choice; with 2002 (for a 28A) and 2007 P.F. certificates, the later Graded (XF 90, SSV $3,000). Scott No. 28  $1,100. $0 (Image)