Lot
2239 
1875, 5¢ blue, C.B.N.C. printing, grilled, o.g., lightly hinged, outstanding centering amid wide well balanced margins which is unheard of on this issue, fresh with rich vibrant color, full clear grill impression which does not break the paper as this grill often does, an Extremely Fine gem; with 2003 & 2019 P.F. certificates. Scott No. 179c $9,500.
WITHOUT QUESTION THE FINEST KNOWN EXAMPLE OF THE 1875, 5¢ CONTINENTAL GRILL ISSUE.
A review of the known examples of the 1875 5¢ grill issue shows that approximately 30-40% of these issues have grill impressions visibly breaking through the paper. Also, the majority are off centered and all but this example with narrow margins. This example with exceptional centering and wide margins is by far the finest in existence.
Realized: $9,000