• Michel1a
• Scott3L1a
• Zumstein8a

Description

Switzerland, Basel, 1845, 2½r Dove of Basel, Crimson & Bright Blue (3L1a; Michel 1a; Zumstein 8a). Position 39, Mint N.H., large to full margins all around, dazzling bright colors and a superbly detailed impression, strong embossing EXTREMELY FINE. A PHENOMENAL NEVER HINGED EXAMPLE OF THE ICONIC 1845 "DOVE OF BASEL" CANTONAL. EASILY ONE OF THE MOST RECOGNIZABLE AND SOUGHT-AFTER CLASSIC STAMPS OF THE WORLD. IN A CONDITION THAT IS BEYOND COMPARE. During the first five years of existence of postage stamps, they were produced in a utilitarian manner - a single color and normally a single motif, usually the head of state or coat of arms. That all changed with the introduction of the Canton of Basel issuing its first (and only) stamp in 1845. It was designed by an architect, Melchior Berry, and was the first stamp to be produced by a three-color letterpress. Featuring an embossed white dove carrying a letter and flying over an ornamental coat-of-arms of Basel, it was far and away the most intricate and visually striking stamp made at the time. Many philatelists still consider the Basel Dove the most beautiful stamp ever produced. The Evergreen example possesses a confluence of physical characteristics rarely seen on any one stamp. It has an overall brightness and freshness unlike any other we have seen. Its colors and impressions are as sharp as the day it was printed. Adding to the rarity is the fact that it is never hinged. Most unused examples lack gum completely. Only a few have full original gum. And perhaps only a couple (if any) others have been certified by recognized Swiss experts as never hinged. With 1996 Abt and von der Weid certificates. No catalogue even attempts to price this stamp never hinged. Catalogue prices are for no gum or original gum and hinged. Scott $19,250 (as no gum). Michel €19,000. Zumstein SF 23,000

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