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Each week we pick one stamp from the catalog and open it up for discussion.
This week is Scott #11, the 3 cent George Washington imperforate printed by Toppan, Carpenter, Casilear & Co. and used from 1851 to 1857. About 140 million were issued to pay the 3 cent letter rate, so it is one of the most common classic U.S. stamps. That is exactly what makes it fun: shades, plate varieties, margins and cancels all change what a copy is worth.
A quick tip: the earlier Scott #10 and #10A are orange brown, while #11 is dull red. Cancels and dates help too.
Your turn:
- Have a Scott #11? Post a photo, front and back.
- What is the best cancel you have seen on one?
- Four margins or cut into the design: how much does that change the price in your experience?
New to the 1851 issue? Post yours and the community will help you confirm which stamp you have.
APS Stamp Dealer #224675
