Identifying #61
#61 is a red orange shade. The common Scott #71 is typically described as orange or deep orange. The paper is harder, much whiter, and highly finished in appearance.

The paper of the premier gravures is very thin, hard, and extremely brittle. The stamps are easily cracked unless handled very carefully. The paper is also quite transparent, and many of the designs can be seen on the backs of the stamps.

The gum is very dark brown and sometimes stains the paper.

The Story Behind the Stamp
Often called the "Premiere Gravures" or "August Issues. Most philatelists now classify Scott #55–#62 as trial printings or samples (essays) rather than regularly issued stamps.

This stamp was not issued; it was produced as a sample for the Post Office Department. It probably reached collectors via postal officials. It is considered to be a trial color proof by many, including Scotts which has reclassified it as #71-TC6.