See below for details
30¢ Orange, deep orange
Printing Method: Engraved
Printer: National Bank Note Co.
Subject: Benjamin Franklin
Quantity Issued: 3,300,000
Perforations: 12
Scott #: 71
Issued: August 20th 1861
Used
$35 - $75
No postmark with gum (MH)
$350 - $900
Full perfect gum, no postmark
no trace of stamp hinge mark (MNH)
$850 (2002)
Here is an example of a plate proof on card with perforations added to give the appearance of a genuine stamp. A genuine #71 was printed on stamp paper, not card.
The earliest known date of use is August 20th, 1861
A rare specimen block
#71S
This stamp typically was used in combination with other stamps to pay for large weight overseas package. It paid the double rate for France, Switzerland (shown above) and other countries,
#71 was issued with the following plate #
Imprint and plate #
7
Shown above is a #71 which has had its pen cancel removed, a process that has faded the color of the stamp.
The vignette was based on Giuseppe Ceracchi's 1791 bust of Benjamin Franklin
Front image courtesy of
Siegel Auction Galleries Inc.
Side and back images courtesy of
Eddis.H on eBay