1862 Civil War Encased Postage Stamp, EP-148, HB-135, S-98, Reed JG12, Twelve Cents, J. GAULT, Plain Frame, Extremely Fine.
Rarity-4 (31 to 40 known), according to Fred Reed. The most available of all 12¢ merchants, making this a good candidate the collector wanting to put together an affordable Encased Postage Stamp Denomination type set. It has a very well centered 1861 US Postage issue George Washington black stamp, viewed under clear mica that is clean and unbroken, having some light creasing from circulation. The case remains quite original with just modest scattered tone, it’s brassy-chestnut color remaining quite clean with sharp details on the flashy reverse. (VF Scott Cat. $1,250) Provenance ex: Collection of Robert Bauer.