Spink Shreves Galleries Sale

To see new sales and other StampAuctionNetwork news in your Facebook newsfeed then Like us on Facebook!

StampAuctionNetwork Extended Features

United States Stamps continued...

1893 COLUMBIAN EXPOSITION continued...

Lot

Symbol

CatNo.

Lot Description

CV or Estimate

232

#232, 3c Columbian, a striking jumbo-margined mint example, featuring margins of extraordinary size and being incredibly well centered within them, gloriously rich color and a highly detailed impression on bright white paper, pristine o.g., n.h., extremely fine; a handsome gem; 2007 PSE certificate (XF-Superb 95 Jumbo; SMQ $2,200.00 as 95 and $9,200.00 as 98). (Image)

$150.00

SOLD for $3,250.00
Will close during Public Auction

233

#233, 4c Columbian, an incomparable top left corner sheet-margin mint example that is the epitome of perfection, possessing mathematically precise centering amid lavish jumbo margins all around, just as impressive is this stamp's intensely rich color and spectacularly detailed impression showing every nuance of the engraver's artistry, unblemished o.g., n.h., in a word - superb.How can one embellish on perfection? This stamp is simply amazing and rightfully can be considered one of the most important graded stamps on record. Not only has it been awarded the coveted Gem 100 Jumbo designation - a grade that virtually no other 19th century stamp has ever been awarded - but this is, of course, the only Four Cent Columbian to have been given this ultimate grade, the next closest being a "mere" 98. Even more remarkable is the fact that this is one of just two Columbians - mint or used - to have been awarded the grade that is considered the pinnacle of perfection. The only other Columbian to have been graded Gem 100 Jumbo is an equally stunning Eight Cent Columbian which, remarkably, is also part of The "Westchester" Collection (see lot #65). Graded or not, this stamp is one of the most stunning condition rarities in all of United States philately.Accompanied by a 1993 PF certificate and a 2007 PSE certificate (Gem 100 Jumbo; unpriced in SMQ in any grade higher than Superb 98, which is priced at $9,200.00); ex-Klimetz. (Image)

$230.00

SOLD for $52,500.00
Will close during Public Auction

234

#234, 5c Columbian, perfectly centered within absolutely enormous margins whose size are unlike any other we have seen on this value, deep luxuriant color and a razor-sharp impression on brilliantly fresh paper, even its perforations are uniformly intact all around, pristine o.g., n.h., superb.A stunning quality example that is, without question, not only one of the finest never hinged Five Cent Columbians in existence, but it is also one of the largest margined. A stamp essential to the collector patiently assembling a Columbian mint set consisting only of the highest graded examples.Accompanied by a 2002 PF certificate and a 2006 PSE certificate (Superb 98J; SMQ $9,000.00 as 98, the highest grade they price); one of only four stamps to have been awarded the lofty Superb 98 Jumbo grade, the highest awarded to this value. (Image)

$260.00

SOLD for $14,000.00
Will close during Public Auction

235

#235, 6c Columbian, a phenomenal bottom right corner sheet-margin mint single, possessing spectacular physical attributes that simply cannot be improved upon, including mathematically precise centering amid the largest jumbo margins imaginable, its color is intensely rich and its impression could not be more detailed on the brightest paper possible for a Columbian stamp, even its reverse is perfect, with full unblemished o.g., n.h., superb.This is another stamp from the "Westchester" Collection that is simply unbelievable. It is hard to imagine that any Columbians are known in this stunning quality and that the "Westchester" Collection contains not one but several Columbian values in the finest attainable quality - a testament to the collector's taste and determination in successfully acquiring examples of stamps that are only in the finest condition available. The Six Cent Columbian offered here is the highest graded example on record - Superb 98 Jumbo - and is the sole copy to be so graded. A stamp destined for placement in the finest collection of United States stamps.Accompanied by a 2006 PSE certificate (Superb 98 Jumbo; SMQ $9,200.00 as 98, the highest grade they price); the highest graded example in the PSE Population Report and the only example to have been awarded this prestigious grade; ex-Klimetz. (Image)

$230.00

SOLD for $35,000.00
Will close during Public Auction

236

#236, 8c Columbian, absolutely perfectly centered amid lavish jumbo margins that are never encountered on this value, sharp prooflike impression on crisp white paper, pristine o.g., n.h., superb; an incomparable gem.Collectors who are seeking to acquire superb 19th century commemorative stamps quickly learn the difficulties the Eight Cent Columbian uniquely presents. This particular value is almost impossible to find both well centered and with sizable margins of any kind. On most existing examples these two physical attributes are typically mutually exclusive. This is the only one that likely exists with both mathematically perfect centering and with true jumbo margins. It is, without question, the finest quality never hinged Eight Cent Columbian on record - which is confirmed by the PSE by having awarded this stamp the ultimate Gem 100 Jumbo designation. This phenomenal stamp is offered for the very first time at public auction.Accompanied by a 2008 PSE certificate (Gem 100 Jumbo; unpriced in SMQ in any grade higher than Superb 98, which is priced at $9,100.00 and will certainly bear no relationship to the final record realization of this unique quality stamp). (Image)

$200.00

SOLD for $47,500.00
Will close during Public Auction

237

#237, 10c Columbian, incredibly well centered within huge jumbo margins which are seldom encountered, gloriously rich color and a razor-sharp impression on immaculate paper, even its perforations are unusually full and intact all around, o.g., n.h., an extremely fine gem in every regard.The Ten Cent Columbian is another challenging stamp to find both well centered and with sizable margins. The example offered here beautifully combines outstanding centering with the largest margins we have ever seen on a never hinged copy. In fact, the rarity of this combination of exceptional physical attributes is underscored by the fact that this stamp has been graded XF-Superb 95 Jumbo.Accompanied by a 2006 PSE certificate (XF-Superb 95 Jumbo; SMQ $3,650.00 as 95 and $14,200.00 as 98); one of only three stamps to have been graded XF-Superb 95 Jumbo, with only three grading higher. (Image)

$350.00

SOLD for $5,000.00
Will close during Public Auction

238

#238, 15c Columbian, a superlative mint example, possessing absolutely perfect centering within lavishly large margins, deep luxuriant color and a razor-sharp impression on brilliantly fresh white paper, immaculate o.g., n.h., superb.This is simply a magnificent stamp. Not only is it in perfect quality, but it also possesses outstanding overall visual appeal. This is, without question, the finest example of the Fifteen Cent Columbian we have ever offered. This stamp also ranks as the finest Fifteen Cent Columbian the PSE has ever graded, having attained the lofty grade of Superb 98 Jumbo - the sole never hinged copy to have been so graded.Encapsulated PSE certificate (Superb 98 Jumbo; SMQ $24,500.00 as 98, the highest grade they price); the highest graded example in the PSE Population Report and the only never hinged copy to have been awarded this impressive grade. (Image)

$750.00

SOLD for $42,500.00
Will close during Public Auction

239

#239, 30c Columbian, an amazing quality mint example, being the essence of perfection, with mathematically precise centering amid truly gigantic jumbo margins, fabulous overall brilliance and freshness, with eye-arresting color and impression on immaculate paper, even its perforations are unusually uniform and intact, unblemished o.g. without a single gum bend or skip, n.h., in a word - superb.A breathtakingly beautiful stamp, with every physical characteristic being as perfect as one could ever imagine. Easily the finest never hinged Thirty Cent Columbian we have ever had the pleasure to offer in our auctions - as well as being one of the finest, if not the finest, examples in existence.Accompanied by a 1999 PF certificate and a 2007 PSE certificate (Superb 98 Jumbo; SMQ $24,500.00as 98, the highest grade they price); the sole example to have been graded Superb 98 Jumbo, with only one stamp grading slightly higher (100), however that stamp's margins are not near as wide as this incomparable copy; ex-"Connoisseur's" Collection. (Image)

$900.00

SOLD for $37,500.00
Will close during Public Auction

240

#240, 50c Columbian, a phenomenal bottom sheet-margin example, being in a condition that is nothing short of mind-boggling, as each and every aspect of this remarkable stamp could not be improved upon, from its near perfect centering amid absolutely gigantic jumbo margins, to its eye-arresting intensely rich color and razor-sharp impression on brilliantly fresh paper (not at all toned as often found on this value), its perforations are fully intact and uniformly even all around, and its reverse is just as magnificent, featuring pristine full o.g. without a single gum bend or skip, never hinged, a superb gem.When we last had the pleasure to offer this stunning stamp in our March 2002 "Premier" Sale (where it realized a then record $12,650.00) we described it as being one of the finest never hinged Fifty Cent Columbians in existence. We also stated that we believed this to be one of greatest quality Columbian mint singles ever to be offered at auction. Our opinion remains unwavering, despite this stamp having been inexplicably graded in 2007 by the PSE as XF 90 Jumbo. The centering borders on perfection which should have qualified this easily as a 95J. Then all of the other spectacular qualities this stamp possesses should have given it "extra points", pushing its grade even higher. Regardless of the numeric grade assigned to this stamp it does not change the fact that this stamp is simply amazing.Accompanied by a 1998 PF certificate and a 2007 PSE certificate (XF 90 Jumbo; SMQ $5,300.00 as 90 and $16,800.00 as 95); ex-Parker, Higgins. (Image)

$1,800.00

SOLD for $15,000.00
Will close during Public Auction

243a

#243a, $3.00 Columbian, the olive green shade, a striking right sheet-margin mint example that is in a most remarkable overall quality, with every physical characteristic of this stamp being simply amazing, including near perfect centering within lavishly large margins, spectacularly rich color in a stunning deep olive green shade, prooflike impression on bright fresh paper, even its perforations are remarkably uniform and intact, the reverse boasts full original gum that is never hinged, an extremely fine gem.There is little doubt that this is one of the finest never hinged Three Dollar Columbians in existence. There are only eight never hinged examples grading 90 or better in the most recent PSE Population Report. There are four (two 90's and two 95's) in the yellow green shade, and four (two 90's and two 95's) in the olive green shade - this being one of them. Even though this stamp did not attain a 95 rating - which we believe should have been the correct grade - it is nonetheless, in our opinion, the equal of the other higher graded examples. Why do we believe this? One only has to look at every aspect of this stamp to recognize it as a truly special stamp: its near perfect centering, its lavishly large margins, its prooflike color and impression, and its pristine never hinged gum. A perfect example for the collector who only seeks out stamps that are both extraordinary in their quality and possesses incomparable eye appeal.Accompanied by 1985, 1990 and 2001 PF certificates, as well as 2001 and 2007 PSE certificates (the latter grading it XF 90; SMQ $17,400.00); ex-Floyd, Noll. (Image)

$6,250.00

SOLD for $23,000.00
Will close during Public Auction

244

#244, $4.00 Columbian, fabulously well centered amid the most immense jumbo margins imaginable, rich color and a wonderful impression, especially clean full o.g. that has been only very lightly hinged, an extremely fine gem.This stamp boasts margins of spectacular width unlike any other we have seen. And just as remarkable is the fact that it is nearly perfectly centered within these massive borders. Contributing further to its marvelous overall desirability is its strong rich color and the extraordinary preservation of its original gum. Few, if any other, Four Dollar Columbians exist this large and are as choice. A superlative stamp.Accompanied by 1990 and 2002 PF certificates, as well as a 2007 PSE certificate (XF-Superb 95 Jumbo; SMQ $8,650.00 as 95 and $15,000.00 as 98); one of only two original gum Four Dollar Columbians of either shade to grade XF-Superb 95 Jumbo, with only two grading slightly higher. (Image)

$2,600.00

SOLD for $10,000.00
Will close during Public Auction

245

#245, $5.00 Columbian, extraordinarily well centered within extravagantly large margins, intense color and a crisp prooflike impression, especially clean full o.g., lightly hinged, extremely fine.Five Dollar Columbians are seldom encountered with such wide margins and being well centered within them. A handsome and choice stamp.Accompanied by a 1999 PSE certificate. (Image)

$3,000.00

SOLD for $4,250.00
Will close during Public Auction

1894 BUREAU ISSUES

Lot

Symbol

CatNo.

Lot Description

CV or Estimate

246

#246, 1c Ultramarine, a striking top left corner sheet-margin single, possessing margins of enormous size and being incredibly well centered within them, rich color on bright paper, o.g., n.h., tiny bit of natural short gumming at top left mentioned for accuracy only, extremely fine; easily the largest-margined mint #246 we have ever seen or could imagine existing; clear 1991 PF certificate; ex-Klimetz.. (Image)

$95.00

SOLD for $400.00
Will close during Public Auction

250

#250, 2c Carmine, Ty. I, gem left sheet-margin plate no. 96 single, virtually perfect centering within unusually wide margins, intensely rich color and impression on bright paper, immaculate o.g., n.h., extremely fine; a handsome stamp; 1998 PF certificate. (Image)

$85.00

SOLD for $325.00
Will close during Public Auction

256

#256, 6c Dull brown, flawlessly centered within lavishly large margins, strikingly intense prooflike color and impression on brilliantly white paper, unblemished o.g., n.h., an extremely fine gem.The first Bureau issue presented many production challenges to the government printers resulting in stamps of inferior quality - particularly in terms of both centering and spacing between the stamps on the plate. Many of the values from this series are difficult, if not impossible, to find in true gem quality. This is particularly true of the Six Cent denomination, which is almost always found poorly centered. The stamp offered here is a remarkable exception to the rule. This is one of the finest never hinged examples we have ever offered of Scott #256.Accompanied by a 2002 PF certificate. (Image)

$500.00

SOLD for $3,000.00
Will close during Public Auction

257

#257, 8c Violet brown, an eye-arresting left sheet-margin mint single, being extraordinarily well centered amid gigantic jumbo margins all around, sumptuously rich color and a deeply etched impression on bright paper, pristine o.g., n.h., an extremely fine gem.Unwatermarked Bureau issues are almost never found with large margins, let alone margins of this spectacular width. We have never encountered a larger-margined example of the Eight Cent value than the one offered here. This easily qualifies as a true condition rarity.Accompanied by a 2000 PF certificate. (Image)

$525.00

SOLD for $2,300.00
Will close during Public Auction

262

#262, $2.00 Bright blue, magnificently centered amid immensely large margins which are almost never seen on this very scarce stamp, incredibly deep rich color which is more reminiscent of its dark blue watermarked counterpart, razor-sharp impression on immaculately white paper, pristine o.g. with just the barest suggestion of a hinge mark, extremely fine gem.First Bureau issues are notoriously challenging to find in premium condition. This is especially true of the high dollar denominations, of which scant few were produced. The exciting example offered here, with its huge balanced margins and its spectacular color, represents the finest attainable quality. We have offered no finer example in our auctions.Accompanied by 1981 and 1999 PF certificates. (Image)

$3,250.00

SOLD for $4,250.00
Will close during Public Auction

1895-1898 BUREAU ISSUES

Lot

Symbol

CatNo.

Lot Description

CV or Estimate

265

#265, 2c Carmine, Ty. I, flawless top sheet-margin partial imprint single, virtually perfectly centered amid huge margins for this value, absolutely radiant color, o.g., n.h., extremely fine; a pristine gem for the perfectionist; 1992 PF certificate; ex-Morris. (Image)

$90.00

SOLD for $900.00
Will close during Public Auction

267

#267, 2c Carmine, Ty. III, mathematically perfect centering within uncharacteristically large margins, absolutely stunning color that could not be more deep and iridescent, immaculate o.g., n.h., a superb gem.The relatively common stamp presented here is in anything but "common" condition. This stamp is perfection personified. It could not posess more precise centering or have color that is more intense. It is not hard to understand why this stamp was awarded a Gem 100 grade by the PSE - the ultimate grade for any stamp.Accompanied by a 2007 PSE certificate (Gem 100; SMQ $1,100.00 as 98, the highest grade they price); not only is this the highest grade given to this stamp, there are only four other stamps in the entire Bureau watermarked series to achieve the grade of Gem 100. (Image)

$16.00

SOLD for $4,250.00
Will close during Public Auction

268

#268, 3c Purple, pristine bottom sheet-margin partial imprint single, extraordinarily well centered and margined, luxuriously rich color and a crisp detailed impression, pristine o.g., n.h., extremely fine gem; 1998 PF certificate. (Image)

$115.00

SOLD for $400.00
Will close during Public Auction