These 2c brown postal stationary items are a bit difficult to identify generally, but with a sharp eye the differences can be spotted. There are six different Die types for the brown variety (as opposed to the red variety). My envelope sizes are all #6.
I lined them up side by side and expanded above and below each item an expanded view of the numerals 2 and the "O" in the "TWO". I have a number of different Die Type varieties. However, the color differences are remarkable. These items were all scanned at once on the same scanner and smaller cut images were all done on the same software.
I need comments from members three aspects of these items:
1. on the color of the stamps, which vary widely (between dark brown and light or reddish brown)- more so than what I would expect.
2. The color of the paper. I think that the paper color is white for all the covers, but hte middle stamp is definitely white while the second stamp in comparison looks like amber. IT may just be the aging of the paper.
3. The last stamp has me completely baffled. The "O" in "TWO" is almost completely filled in. This is more normal for Die type 54, but Die Type 54 did not come in brown color, only Red. This item could be Die type 53, which has the "O" totally filled in. But my item clearly does not have the "O" fully filled in. There is a clear embossed impression with brown stamped into the stamp in the "O". I am stumped.
I need help. Any expert comments?
Good news is that as "cut squares", each of these stamps is worth $25-$50 at catalogue value. However, on full covers (like these) the value goes through the roof (as much as 10-15 times from what I have read).
Posted 12/19/2018 2:10 pm
