Lot
1044 E
1873, 1¢ Essays on Buff, "POD" Essay Watermark, four different colors of 13 k/1 dim dark o-y-orange, 17 h/1 dim m. deep orange-yellow, 17 l/2 dull v. dark orange-yellow and 63 k/1 dim dark red-violet; three with mount adherence and two also with abrasion from removal, Very Fine appearance. Scott No. UX1E. USPCC No. S1E-Zf $3,000.
The essay watermark reads up or down on the trial colors. The trial colors exist in two types (Ze and Zf) with and without bars above and/or below the letters. The same sheets of paper may have both types of watermarks. The cardstock was cut and used indiscriminately with respect to the watermark position. Cards show only "P" or "OD". No attempt was made to cut and position cardstock to print with complete "POD". It is probable that pure chance resulted in cards with or without watermarks as some ink colors exist with or without watermarks and in various positions.