Private Special Reprint Nr 167 | Tested
In 1875, the U.S. Post Office decided to re-issue all previously released stamps for public display and sale during the nation's Centennial celebrations. Because the original 1873 stamps were still in use, these new versions were printed on without gum, distinguishing them from the regular "soft paper" issues meant for general postal use.
: Printed by the Continental Bank Note Co. using line-engraved intaglio on flat plates.
: Around 1918, a significant group of 1875 Special Printings, including strips of Scott #167, was discovered in the possession of the widow of Charles F. Steel , a former employee of the National and Continental Bank Note companies. Private Special Reprint Nr 167
While these were official government issues, the term "private" is often associated with specific historical collections that handled these reprints.
Due to its scarcity, an unused Scott #167 is valued between depending on its condition and centering. Sound examples with perforations on all sides are particularly rare, as many surviving copies have one or more straight edges. In 1875, the U
: Only 388 copies were ever sold, and today there are approximately 45 to 52 confirmed survivors , making it one of the rarest U.S. stamps. Provenance and "Private" Reprints
Authentication is critical because the regular 1873 issue and the 1875 special printing look very similar. Professional authentication from firms like Robert A. Siegel Auction Galleries or the Philatelic Foundation is standard for this rarity. Regular 1873 Issue 1875 Special Printing (#167) Thin, yellowish/creamy Hard, bright white Gum Usually present Issued without gum Perforations Perforated 12 Perforated 12 (often poorly centered) Color Ultramarine Usually a more vivid Ultramarine Market Value : Printed by the Continental Bank Note Co
: These items were handled by the Nassau Stamp Co. , leading to various "private" handling myths, including incorrect attributions to the Earl of Crawford collection. Identifying the 167 Special Printing