Husseys Insurance Stamp?

I just bought this and would like some information on it please. I really like it and would like to add more to my collection soon. Thank you for any insight on this neat stamp! -Jeff

I know very little about these stamps, but do note that counterfeits are quite prevalent.

If the stamp is authentic, it appears to be a Local Stamp issue for Hussey's Post of New York, NY, dated 1872. There are two varieties Scott #87L49 (red brown) and #87L50 (red), both on thick laid paper. Not sure that I can tell from your scan which color variety you may have. According to my 2002 Scott Specialized Catalog, the used values are $50 and $40 respectively, however both figures are in italics, suggesting that there may be limited known examples. In fact, the introduction to that section of the Scott catalog references the fact that "only a few Local Posts used special handstamps for canceling."

As for the use of Local Post Stamps in general, it is noted that "The Independent Mail Routes began using stamps early in 1844...most of the Local Posts still in business were forced to discontinue service by an Act of 1861, except Boyd's and Hussey's which were able to continue about 20 years longer because of the particular nature of their business. Other posts appeared illegally and sporadically after 1861 and were quickly suppressed."

Here's a bit more about Hussey's Bank and Insurance Post:

http://mailtransportsystems.wordpre...rier-stamps/

Thank you! Fake/forgery or otherwise I like it! A neat piece of postal history or, maybe private parcel? Neat to me anyway and great info! Thank you for the link 22Crows!

Post a high res. scan and I will look it up tonight for you.

I don't yet have it in hand. When I get it in the mail I'll certainly consult with you rev. Thank you very much.

That's an interesting stamp ILS. I too have a fondness for local carriers.

Although this is a special message stamp it's from the same company. Scott 87L61 with original gum. Pretty sure this is not a forgery, but as you mentioned either way it's nice.

Western1868, your 87L61 is NOT a forgery! You do need to verify the perf. 12x12 or 11x12 is the normal. But, it it is 11x11 or 11.5x11.5 it is quite scarce!

Jeff, On yours their are about 10 different Forgeries + Reprints identified. So, I high res scan will be required.

Yes, this is a genuine Hussey stamp. 87L50 is red, 87L49 is a lilac. Can not tell from scan but it looks closer to the red. Very nice stamp.

I can't believe it! I checked my auction account this morning and I didn't win it! I thought I already won and paid for it but I guess I was mistaken! It was only like 5.00 too! I'm sorry for my stupidity as I wouldn't have posted it if it was still an active auction. DAMN.

here was the thread: http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dl....m1433.l2649