1862 Civil War Era Encased Postage Stamp, EP-6, HB-50, S-26a, Reed-BA01F/G, One Cent, Joseph L. Bates, FANCY GOODS (Two Words), Plain Frame, Choice Extremely Fine.
Rated as Rarity-4 (31 to 40 known) according to Fred Reed. The deep blue 1861 US Postage issue Benjamin Franklin stamp is well centered, having some light wrinkles as made when placed into its case. The mica is clear and unbroken, having signs of light circulation and internal natural mica laminations. The case has overall medium chestnut-brown color with some reddish tinges on the face right moon and rim edges. There are no marks or distractions present. Overall, a very collectible pleasing example of this scarcer Rarity-4 Merchant Two Words type. (VF Scott Cat. $600)