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Scott Number: R1c Collection Reference No. for Communications: 5646

Denomination/Type: 1c Express, red, perforated

2023 Scott Catalog Value (for a single stamp): $ 1.50

Estimated Retail Value: $ 500.00 What is this?

Cancel Method: Handstamped - Circle

Cancel Color: Black

Cancel Date: December 29, 1863

Cancel or Company Type: Law firm or Federal, State, or Local Government Entity

Company: USPS

City: Washington

State: Washington, DC

A strip of three 1-cent Express (R1c) used illegally as postage, caught and a 6-cent penalty (double the postage amount) assessed. All 3 stamps are tied by a bold December 29, 1863 Washington, DC postal cancel. A lovely example of a wartime illegal/improper usage.

If you have any information or comments about this cancel or stamp, please email me.