Lot
2385 (
)
Smith's City Express Post, 2¢ black on green, no gum, into ornate frame, strong fresh green glazed paper, rebacked over small flaws, Fine appearance; with 2018 P.F. certificate. Scott No. 168L1 Estimate $4,000 - 6,000.
ONE OF TWO KNOWN EXAMPLES OF THE SMITH'S CITY EXPRESS POST ISSUE - A GREAT LOCAL POST RARITY AND THE SUCCESSOR TO THE AMERICAN EXPRESS CO.
The American Express Co. is believed to have been started by Jacob T. Smith and Charles and Frank Dobson. After the Dobson brothers left the company, it became the Smith's City Express. William C. Smith then continued the operation into 1861. The Smith's stamps are similar in design to their American Express predecessor.