Lot
5022 
Ecuador, 1865, ½r Blue, Embossed Arms, early first printing, top left stamp in top margin block of 4 (positions 2-3, 14-15) showing half of embossed seal at left, o.g., never hinged, ample to mostly large margins, very fresh, Extremely Fine, this variety occurs in only one or two positions in some of the sheets printed, the oval outer frameline of the embossed coat of arms is visible on front, due to a little humidity left by the gum. Scott No. 2d, 2 Estimate $1,000 - 1,500.
ONLY FOUR MULTIPLES IN UNUSED CONDITION ARE BELIEVED TO EXIST OF THE ½R FIRST PRINTING. THIS BEING UNIQUE WITH THE EMBOSSED COAT OF ARMS.
The first printing plate stamps were issued on January 1st, 1865. These are characterized by a detailed impression with clear lines, when the plate was clean.
Realized: $5,000