The Nick Kirke Collection of Gem-Quality Used U.S. Stamps continued...

THIS IS THE FINEST KNOWN EXAMPLE OF THE 1868 90-CENT F GRILL. THIS SUPERB STAMP HAS BEEN AWARDED THE PERFECT GRADE OF GEM 100 BY P.S.E.

The 90c stamps used to make grilled issues were printed on a thick stock of paper. It is likely that sheets remaining from the pre-grill period were used and that the thinner paper introduced in 1868 had not been used for the 90c value. Two characteristics of 90c F Grill stamps are poorly punched perforations and generally poor centering.

A review of the P.S.E. Population Report statistics for the grilled issues reveals how rare this 90c stamp truly is. Only one other 1867-68 grilled stamp in any condition -- used or unused -- has achieved a grade of 100 (15c used). Even the very common 3c F Grill stamps have not had an example grade 100. To achieve this grade with the top value of the issue is remarkable.

With 1977 and 2004 P.F. certificates. With 2005 P.S.E. certificate (Gem 100, unpriced in SMQ above the grade of 98, SMQ $31,000.00 as 98). This is the highest grade awarded and no other example has achieved this grade. The next highest graded example is a 95 (Image)

Search for comparables at SiegelAuctions.com