Bigjake: RS-138e, 1 cent C. E. Hull & Co. - exp. silk - Match & Medicine

RS-138e two top edge thinsThis variety is listed by Scott but is unpriced. The CV for the "a" variety is $400.00 and this stamp is most closely related to that. There are two blue threads on the back and two more on the front. Match and Medicine stamps, especially used examples, are notorious for having faults, some small and some larger. Despite this, they are the most desired and sought after of the revenue stamps. Many of the faults are visible on the scan such as clipped corners, pin holes, creases or tears; others such as thins are not readily visible but may or may not be present and should be anticipated. There are four main categories on Match & Medicine as described by type of paper and years of issue. The following is a table of all "a" Old Paper (1862 to 1871) "b" Silk Paper (1871 to 1877) "c" Pink Paper (1877 to 1878) "d" Watermarked Paper (1878 on) Pricing for match and medicine stamps is also unlike other areas of philately. Stamps with small faults typically sell for full catalog value or a large percentage thereof. VF or better stamps with no visible faults can go for several time catalog value. Communication is a very valuable tool. If you have any problem with your purchase, please contact me directly so that it can be resolved (PLEASE DO NOT GO THROUGH EBAY). The biggest problem that I have as a seller is using the US postal service as a shipper. Many of the items in my store are relatively inexpensive and the cost to provide tracking and/or insurance is simply not warrented. A year ago, the USPS delivered First Class Mail in 3-5 days or less. Now, it could take 3-5 weeks but it will eventually get to where it is going. If you purchase an item from me and it does not arrive in the projected time - please let me know and PLEASE DO NOT OPEN A CLAIM DISPUTE WITH EBAY. I will always work with you to resolve a problem and will happily issue a refund when all else fails. Thank you for your understanding