#423C 1914 5¢ Perf. 12x10

Basic Information

Color: Blue
Subject: George Washington
Watermark: SINGLE-lined USPS
Printing method: Flat plate
Perforations: 12 x 10
Scott #: 423C
Quantity issued: 24 stamps recorded
(all used)
Issued: January 1914

Value

An unused stamp with perfect gum: -
An unused stamp with gum and a hinge mark: -
A used stamp: $4,750-$8,5000

About #423C

There are two stamps with a Tampa Florida pre-cancel.

The 1911 5¢ Washington (#378) was introduced in January 1911 with a perf 12 gauge. In December 1913 the new 10 perforation machines were employed at the Bureau. At some time, presumably 1914, the stamp were fed horizontally through the 12 gauge perforator and then, probably in error, fed vertically through the 10 gauge perforator. No date for this occurrence can be given as none of the surviving examples have a visible date on the postmark.

Usage

In 1914, the primary purpose of the US 5¢ stamp was to pay the international letter rate for the Universal Postal Union. It was also used in multiples or alongside other denominations to cover heavier domestic letters, registered mail fees, or special delivery services.

Identifying the Watermark on #423C

The SINGLE lined USPS watermark of #423C

Between 1895 and 1916 the U.S. government used two different watermarks, double line and single line with the letters "USPS".

By placing the watermark face down on a dark surface or holding it up to bright light you might be able to see the watermark. If you cannot see the watermark it might be a good idea to invest in watermark fluid and a watermark tray. Ronsons lighter fluid works just as well as watermark fluid. Both fluids evaporate quickly.

Pour a little fluid in the tray, lay the stamp face down. In a few seconds the stamp will absorb the fluid and reveal the watermark to you.

As you will see from the illustrations the letters can span several stamps, so on the watermark, for instance, you can see only part of the letter S in one corner and only part the letter P in the other corner.

The Inspiration for the Design

George Washington bust by Jean-Antoine Houdon

The vignette was based on a bust of George Washington by french sculptor Jean-Antoine Houdon.

Created in 1785 the bust is considered the most accurate likeness of the first U.S. president. Based on a life mask and clay model made at Mount Vernon, it captures Washington at age 53 with precise facial details, blending a Roman, toga-style aesthetic with realistic aging. It is considered one of the most accurate representations of Washington.