Lot
3237 
1866, 15¢ black, o.g., lightly hinged, unbelievable centering with large even margins, Post Office fresh color and proof-like impression, Extremely Fine; with 1995 P.F. & 2008 P.S.E. certificates, the latter Graded (XF 90, SMQ $10,000).Scott No. 77 $5,000.
AN EXCEEDINGLY RARE ORIGINAL GUM EXAMPLE OF THE 15¢ 1861-66 ISSUE IN THE BEST CONDITION ATTAINABLE. THIS STAMP IS CERTAINLY THE FINEST MINT SINGLE POSSESSING ALL THE ATTRIBUTES OF A TRUE GEM.
As a reference, the P.S.E. has graded but a mere three mint examples of the 15¢ Lincoln with original gum. One never hinged example, graded F-VF 75 and two hinged examples, one graded F 70 and this example graded XF 90.nnWhy this gem did not graded higher, we do not understand and the SMQ value for this is woefully undervalued. To this point, it should be noted that this magnificent gem sold in Dec. 2000 for a hammer price of $32,500 (Siegel Sale 833, Lot 422)
Certificate(s):
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Realized: $35,000