Scotts #70 US stamps

#70 - 1862 Red Lilac 24¢

24¢
Red lilac, deep red lilac

Printing Method: Engraved
Printer: National Bank Note Co.
Subject: George Washington
Plate #: 6
Quantity Issued: 400,000 (70, 70a, 70b, 70c)
Perforations: 12
Scott #: 70
Earliest date of use: July 1st, 1862

Value

Used
$22.50 - $70
No postmark with gum (MH)
$300 - $700
Full perfect gum, no postmark
no trace of stamp hinge mark (MNH)
No sales recorded

Counterfeits

Here is an example of a trial color proof with perforations added and gum added to give the appearance of a genuine stamp.

Earliest Known Use

The earliest known date of use is January 7th, 1862, the date of Stonewall Jacksons march to Romney, West Virginia

Early Forgery

A very crude contemporary forgery

Identification

The 24¢ Washington is not the easiest stamp to identify. Time and fading have altered the appearance of many, with the violet hue is particularly prone to fading. The above guide may be of some help in identifying which shade you have. Note that #109 is extremely rare, it is printed on harder white paper and its printing is crisper.

Inspiration for the Design

The vignette was based on Gilbert Stewarts portrait of George Washington

Stamp usage

Up until January 1st, 1868 the rate to Great Britain was 24¢, the perfect use for this stamp. The rate to Great Britain was then lowered to 12¢ thus making the 24¢ stamp only useful as a make up stamp for expensive postage.