1862 Civil War Era Encased Postage Stamp, EP-24a, HB-189, S-140, Reed-NA01CU. One Cent. NORTH AMERICAN LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY, with Curved “INSURANCE”, Choice Extremely Fine.
Rated as Rarity-6 (16 to 20 known) according to Fred Reed. A bright premium quality and very pleasing example of this scarce “Curved” INSURANCE major type. The 1861 US Postage issue blue Benjamin Franklin stamp is near perfectly centered just a bit high, having a fresh appearance with just a hint of tone. It is seen under perfect clear unbroken mica. The case has rich natural chestnut color, having no defects or detractions. Overall, it enjoys excellent eye appeal being only lightly circulated. We have sold several in past decades with records of selling between $1,600 to $2,000 and likely worth more in today’s active collector market. A catalog number is very scarce, valuable, and really difficult to locate in this quality. (EF Friedberg Cat. $900)