1862 Civil War Encased Postage Stamp, EP-68, HB-69, S-40, Reed-BU05, Five Cents, F. BUHL & CO., Detroit, Choice Extremely Fine.
Rarity-8 (5 to 10 known) according to Fred Reed. F. Buhl & Company was the only Detroit-based firm to utilize John Gault’s encased postage. One of the very Finest known, this example even appears finer in quality than the Hodder-Bowers plate specimen illustrated on page 72 of THE STANDARD CATALOGUE reference. The mica remains very clear and unbroken with one very slight natural craze atop the left moon. The perfectly centered stamp remains a deep, bold deep rich brown, a faint insertion crease in the stamp near center only seen viewed at an angle. Overall, virtually like the day it was printed. The detail is extremely sharp, with no detractions to the legends on the perfect, natural medium chestnut-brown reverse surfaces. Extremely rare as a major Merchant type in this quality, having particularly pleasing eye appeal. (VF Scott Cat. $2,250) Provenance ex: Collection of Robert Bauer.
In 1833, brothers Frederick and Christian Buhl launched F. Buhl & Company, focusing on the sale of hats and furs. Their commitment to quality and fair dealings quickly earned them a reputation, and their business flourished. Frederick served as Detroit’s Mayor in 1848; Christian served as Mayor from 1860 to 1861.