Identification of the 1847 10¢ and its 1875 reprint
Washington’s Mouth
#2
1847
#4
1875
#2 The 1847 Original
Washington's mouth is more curved, particularly along the lower lip.
#4 The 1875 Reprint
Washington's mouth is straighter, particularly along the lower lip.
The Printers Initials
#2
1847
#4
1875
#2 The 1847 Original
The initials "R.W.H.&E." at the bottom are sharp and easily legible.
#4 The 1875 Reprint
The initials are blurred or poorly defined.
Washington's Eyes
#2
1847
#4
1875
#2 The 1847 Original
The eyes seem have an ‘alert’ look.
#4 The 1875 Reprint
The eyes give a sleepy appearance.
Shirt Collar
#2
1847
#4
1875
#2 The 1847 Original
The white shirt collar is distinct.
#4 The 1875 Reprint
The collar is so dark that it nearly blends into the dark coat collar.
The Left X
#2
1847
#4
1875
#2 The 1847 Original
The gap between the legs of the left X is the same as the gap on the right X.
#4 The 1875 Reprint
The gap between the legs of the left X is larger than the gap on the right X.
Hair Curl Dot
#2
1847
#4
1875
#2 The 1847 Original
The dot in the curl of the hair near Washington’s left cheek is small.
#4 The 1875 Reprint
The dot in the curl of the hair near Washington’s left cheek is more pronounced.
Additional Differences
Validity & Gum
The 1847 originals were valid for postage until they were demonetised in 1851. The 1875 reproductions were never valid for postage and were typically issued without gum.
Paper
The 1847 original was printed on thin, greyish-blue wove paper. The 1875 reproduction was printed on harder, whiter paper
Rarity
The 1875 reproduction is significantly rarer, with only 4,779 sold, compared to millions of the 1847 original.