U.S. Scott #156: the 1873 1¢ Benjamin Franklin

Updated August 7, 2026

Lot number121
AuctionCoin, Stamp, Collectables and More 29
DateAugust 28, 2026 at 6:00 PM CDT
Auction houseFeatherznest
LocationGrapevine, Arkansas

The design matches the Bank Note series: left-facing Franklin profile in ultramarine (or shades like grayish/blue), ornate frame with "U.S. POSTAGE" at top and "ONE 1 CENT" at bottom. This is the Continental issue (distinguished from the earlier National #145 by the secret mark: a small dash/arc of color in the ball/ornament to the left of the "1" in the lower left). No grill "1873 U.S. Scott #156 1¢ Ultramarine Benjamin Franklin – Continental Bank Note Co. Issue with Secret Mark. Genuine used example from the popular Bank Note series on hard white wove paper, perf 12. Distinctive left profile of Franklin with clear secret mark (dash in the ball left of the '1'). Sound with typical perforations and cancel for the age (full scans show exact condition, color, and any minor faults common to these classics). Great addition to a 19th-century U.S. or Bank Note collection. Scott 2025 CV $1+ (premium for better examples). Bid confidently on this authentic historical stamp!"

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