Lot 2006 P
Caterson Brotz & Co., 5¢ black, large die proof on India, mounted in full card (151x228mm), with blue "18188" control number on reverse, bright and very fresh, Very Fine and choice, ex-Joyce (accompanied by his original album page).Scott No. RU1P1 $4,000.
AN EXTREMELY RARE LARGE DIE PROOF OF THE UNISSUED 5¢ CATERSON, BROTZ & CO. PRIVATE DIE PLAYING CARD.
This stamp's die was approved in December of 1882 and 25,500 stamps were printed, however the law imposing tax on playing cards was repealed. All the stamps were sent to be destroyed, with three examples known to have escape this fate. Only four die proofs are known to exist. One of which resides in the B.E.P. archives.
Realized: $3,750