1894 Pale Blue stamp delivers $24,000

This six dollar piece, never used for its purpose of paying for newspapers or periodicals, sold in New York:-Robert A Siegel's three day auction of rare and collectible US stamps has concluded, with some interesting results.

Particularly interesting was the sale of an extremely fine 1894 Pale Blue $6 stamp, specifically an unwatermarked bureau issue. The one on sale was one of just 15 unused examples which have been certified as genuine by the Philatelic Foundation.

An 1894 Pale Blue - one of 15 in the world

Naturally, most are in less than perfect condition. The one on offer in the sale is one of the finest in existence, standing out due to its striking colour and excellent centring. It was issued without gum for newspapers and periodicals.

Earlier in the sale was an 1869 10c Yellow. Though not quite so rare in general, an example, with full original gum, was available in exceptionally fine condition.

1869 10c yellow - extremely fresh and fine

Given the remarkable grading of Superb 98 by the PSE in view of its radiant colour, crisp paper and perfectly centring, the piece told for 10 times the guide price for a typical example, achieving $24,000, as did the 1894 Pale Blue.

Either piece would make an excellent centrepiece for a high-end philatelic collection, and their values will only rise if they are kept in the fantastic condition they have been to date.