1862 Civil War Encased Postage Stamp, EP-1, HB-1, Scott-1, Reed AB01, One Cent, AERATED BREAD COMPANY, New York, Choice Extremely Fine.
Rated as Rarity-7 (11 to 15 known) according to Fred Reed. This attractive example being among the finest known for this rare “Key” merchant type listed in all Encased Postage Stamp Catalogs as Encased Postage Stamp Number “1”. The John J. Ford Jr. Collection, sold nearly two decades ago in 2004, contained only a single One Cent Denomination there graded Choice Very Fine that realized $4,250. EAHA auctioned two subsequent examples; First was June 2, 2012 Lot 265 graded VF/EF with two heavy hits damaging the mica and stamp which sold for $3,835; the second example was nicer, offered as April 25, 2014 Lot 1, graded AU but was “polished” which sold for $5,900.

This current example is still vastly finer overall in quality than either of those two prior examples. The reverse side case appears Choice About Uncirculated, displaying sharp distinct legends on smooth semi-lustrous chestnut surfaces highlighting its eye appeal. Its mica is clear and unbroken showing only slight circulation wear. The 1¢ bold blue Benjamin Franklin 1861 U.S. postage Stamp is centered a bit towards the top left, having excellent eye appeal being quite bright. This 1¢ is the only denomination available for this merchant generally available for collectors, as other than a unique 5¢, no other denominations were ever produced. The finest example EAHA has offered to date, with this One Cent representing the only “collectible” denomination of this important major Merchant type available to collectors. An important addition to any Civil War Encased Postage collection. (2026 VF Scott Cat. $7,000)