1898, 5¢ dark blue, 2 plate number strips of 3 with imprints, top margin "834" and bottom margin "836" numbers, o.g., never hinged, fresh and Fine. Scott No. 281  $680. $0 (Image)

1898, 5¢ dark blue, light straight line machine cancel, near perfect centering amid evenly balanced margins, rich deep color, Extremely Fine to Superb, a beautiful used gem; with 2015 P.S.E. Graded certificate (XF-Sup 95, SMQ $155). Scott No. 281  $2. $0 (Image)