1862 Civil War Era Encased Postage Stamp, EP-34a, HB-30, S-15, Reed AS03MD, Three Cents, AYER’S SARSAPARILLA, Medium “AYER'S” with Legend, “Ayer’s Sarsaparilla to Purify the Blood”, Late Die State, Choice Very Fine.
Rarity-1 (100+ Common) according to Fred Reed. A pleasing above average example of this Emergency Civil War Era Civil War use small change. The case has sharp clear legends that are completely defect-free, toned to an even golden-chestnut. The reverse was struck during its late die state with the large die break clearly shown below AYER’S. The 1861 US Postage issue 3¢ red George Washington stamp has good strong color with some soiling on Washington’s bust and light internal mica laminations are present. Overall, a very collectable example of this more affordable Boston, Massachusetts area Encased Postage Stamp Merchant and with the die break for specialists. (VF Scott Cat. $350)