1877 5c deep blue, Buffalo Balloon (Schoendorf Type II), constant plate flaw variety, unused with full original gum, n.h., but with some adhesion on back, margins all around, v.f., with 1991 Bolaffi certificate (1979 PFC no longer accompanies). (The Buffalo Balloon stamp, designed by John F. B. Lillard and engraved by John H. Snively, was printed by Wheeler Brothers Printers in Nashville, Tennessee. The stamps were intended for use on a balloon flight from Nashville to Gallatin, which took place on June 18, 1877. Of the 300 printed, only 23 were used. At least some of the Buffalo Balloon stamps were exposed to moisture around the time they were printed and were probably stuck together. This accounts for the many without gum, disturbed gum or thinned examples sometimes encountered) (catalogued as hinged) cat. $7500 (Cat No. CL1) (Image)

Cat. $7500, Est.$6,000