Encased Postage Stamps
Unique R-10 Ten Cent “Ribbed Frame” Ayer's Sarsaparilla
EP-99, HB-37, S-17a, Reed-AS10MDRB. Ten Cents. AYER’S SARSAPARILLA, Medium “AYER’S.” Likely Unique. Ribbed Frame. Choice Very Fine to Extremely Fine.
Rated as Rarity-10 (Unique) according to Fred Reed. This specimen is Ex: Stack’s John J. Ford, Jr. Collection Sale, Lot 380, sold in June of 2004 (no insert tag). It is absolutely genuine and the only example known either to Ford or Fred Reed in his comprehensive reference “CIVIL WAR ENCASED STAMPS”. In that sale the importance and Unique rarity status of this Ribbed Frame and Ten Cents denomination combination was overlooked. Prior to that, this example is almost certainly from the Dunham Collection Sale. Fred Reed considers it to be Unique, and this cataloger, along with other experts in the field are inclined to agree. It is certainly the only example known to us. The Fred Reed books tracks prior auction records, which indicate six appearances over his 104-year survey period.

Overall, this example has even light wear from circulation and is quite attractive. The bold deep green Washington stamp is very well centered, just a hair towards the left. The mica is clear and unbroken, having one small crack located just to the left of Washington’s mouth and normal circulation. The case is a rich natural medium chestnut in color. It is perfectly sealed and 100% authentic, as made. Every tiny detail of the “Ribbing” on the frame is sharply defined. It is defect free and the reverse legends are sharp and very clear. Other than for some honest circulation, this Unique rarity grades to Extremely Fine.

The importance of this particular Ribbed Frame, Ten Cents, AYER’S SARSAPARILLA, Medium “AYER’S” Encased Postage Stamp can not be understated. Without it, no future collection can ever be determined to be “complete”!