Description: Encased Postage Stamp:A lovely example of this 1862 temporary expedient to address the extreme coin shortage during the Civil War. John Gault patented these brass encasements to safeguard postage stamps so they could be used as small change for transactions without the paper deteriorating. They were only manufactured (all by hand) for a few months before Government issued fractional currency made them obsolete. Most, when found, are damaged.The present example is listed in reference guides as:EP-167, HB-137, S-99, Reed-JG24. Encased Postage Stamp. Twenty Four Cents. J. GAULT. Plain Frame. (some other types of frames had advertisements).Rated as Rarity-4 (31 to 40 Known) according to Fred Reed. This high quality 24 denomination Encased Postage Stamp has a nice mellow violet 1861 Civil War US Postage George Washington stamp that appears very clean. The mica is excellent, unbroken and clear. The case is a natural chestnut in color with a smooth appearance and somewhat glossy reverse with its text sharp. A pleasing high Twenty Four Cents denomination, being an excellent specimen for collectors wishing to complete either a full denomination or J. Gault merchant set.Purchased from the leading expert and dealer in encased postage, Early American History Auctions from the May 2023 Auction, where it was advertised as choice extremely fine condition. FREE USPS PRIORITY SHIPPING!No returns.Thanks very much for looking. Please ask any questions you may have.
Price: 1795 USD
Location: Winnisquam, New Hampshire
End Time: 2024-11-09T14:47:52.000Z
Shipping Cost: N/A USD
Product Images
Item Specifics
All returns accepted: ReturnsNotAccepted
Circulated/Uncirculated: Circulated
Type: Encased Coin
Country/Region of Manufacture: United States
