Sale No: 757
Lot No:578
Symbol:Cat No:CL1

Airmail Semi-Official, 1877, 5¢ Buffalo Balloon (Scott CL1), Schoendorf Type II, o.g., barest trace of hinge, a high-flyer with bold color and clean printing; paper fresh with huge, balanced margins, Extremely Fine to Superb, unpriced in SMQ, only 300 printed and 23 actually used, with 2017 P.F. certificate graded XF-SUP 95.
SMQ XF-SUP 95.

Designed by John F. B. Lillard, a Nashville reporter, engraved by John H. Snively, and printed by Wheeler Brothers Printers, the Buffalo Balloon stamps were intended for use on a balloon flight from Nashville to Gallatin, which took place on June 18, 1877. Many existing unused stamps show signs of having been exposed to moisture around the time they were produced, leading to the no gum, disturbed gum or thinned examples often encountered.

This lightly hinged, full original gum stamp is a true condition rarity.
Scott $7,500
Estimate $15,000-20,000 (Image)

Scott $7,500
Estimate $15,000-20,