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

EXTREMELY FINE GEM. A SUPERB USED EXAMPLE OF THE $4.00 COLUMBIAN, WHICH HAS BEEN GRADED XF-SUPERB 95 JUMBO BY P.S.E. THIS IS THE HIGHEST GRADE AWARDED AND THIS STAMP IS THE ONLY ONE TO ACHIEVE IT.

With 2000 P.F. and 2009 P.S.E. certificates (XF-Superb 95 Jumbo, unpriced in SMQ above the grade of 95, SMQ $7,000.00 as 95). This is the highest grade awarded and no other examples have achieved this grade (Image)

Search for comparables at SiegelAuctions.com

Search for comparables at SiegelAuctions.com

Search for comparables at SiegelAuctions.com

EXTREMELY FINE GEM. A BEAUTIFUL USED EXAMPLE OF THE $5.00 COLUMBIAN COMBINING CENTERING, FRESHNESS AND AN ATTRACTIVE CANCEL.

The dollar-value Columbians are extremely difficult to obtain in superb used condition. This denomination was not designed to pay any actual postage rate, and collectors protested the high cost. Only 21,844 were sold, and only a small percentage of those were used, either on philatelic covers or on heavy registered parcels. The stamps on parcels or registered mail were frequently heavily cancelled, and the large package wrappers were susceptible to damage. The stamp offered here is a notable exception. It is attractively cancelled and has balanced margins.

With 2000 and 2005 P.F. certificates. With 2008 P.S.E. certificate (XF-Superb 95, SMQ $6,500.00). Only one example has graded higher, offered in the Natalie Grace collection (Siegel Sale 1027, lot 130) (Image)

Search for comparables at SiegelAuctions.com