1863 Revenue (Insurance)

This is just about the oldest Revenue stamp I have with a clearly documented date of 08/17/1863. I believe it's an R46.



Although this particular example carries a minimal catalog value, Scott Specialized goes on to suggest that most of these stamps were issued in 1862 or 1863, making no specific reference to the date of issue of any of the individual stamps in the series. I can only assume this would have been one of the earlier uses of the stamp.

Scott Specialized goes to suggest that since most of these revenues were cancelled with pen and ink, stamped cancellations command a higher value. Would this early example qualify as having some premium over the catalog listing, even though it has a straight edge?

You are correct this is Scott # R46. These were 1st delivered to the USIR on Oct. 21, 1862. With the total number issued 1,535,696.

Now for the cancel. Yes, stamped cancellations command a premium! In some cases it can be very substantial. In this case I would say at least double Catalog. Not a whole lot of cash but a substantial %. It shows proper usage of an Insurance Stamp by an Insurance co. SON(socked On the Nose). The straight edge would put this in the left hand edge. Not a big deal for most Revenue Collectors. It might be slightly less attractive. But, it is actually Far Less Common.

Overall a VERY nice stamp !

Thanks for the info. Just curious how you have stats on the # and date of issue for this particular item. Scott Specialized makes no reference to it ... is there another resource guide that goes more in depth on such Revenues?

I found an R6c last night.

The "Boston Revenue Book" gives Qty. Issued, Dates, etc. The information came from the Carpenter and USIR archives. They run about $20-$50 depending on printing.

Very nice revenue with a great cancel.




Butch