Scott #C2 - 16¢ Jenny Airmail - Striking Vertical BOSTON MASS Precancel

Scott #C2 – 1918 16¢ Curtiss Jenny Airmail – Premium Vertical Precancel Variety

This is a spectacular example of Scott C2, the 16¢ "Curtiss Jenny" airmail issue, featuring the desirable vertical precancel from the post office in BOSTON MASS. Issued on June 11, 1918, this stamp helped cover the revised airmail rate shortly after the historic start of U.S. air service. C2 is an important piece in the development of the US air post, and this variety offers an unusual glimpse into the era's postal efficiency measures.

Philatelic Quality & Specialized Appeal

This stamp is a must-have for specialized collectors because it represents a pristine example of a key U.S. airmail issue in a unique format:

• Vertical Precancel Variety: The "BOSTON MASS" precancel is applied vertically (sideways), a less common and more sought-after orientation compared to horizontal applications. This indicates that the original sheet of stamps was fed into the machine and then turned 90 degrees.

• Iconic Design: The green stamp features the famous Curtiss JN-4H "Jenny" biplane, cementing its status as the original icon of U.S. airmail. Its connection to the earliest days of powered flight and mail delivery makes it a favorite among collectors of aviation and postal history.

• Precanceled Beauty: The "BOSTON MASS" precancel is cleanly applied, showcasing the distinct style of the Bureau Precancel of the period. This feature is particularly valued by those who focus on the specialized field of U.S. precancels.

Condition & Collector Grade Value

This stamp is visually striking, allowing the collector to appreciate both the fine engraving detail of the Jenny design and the unique overprint.

• Vibrant Presentation: The deep green color is crisp, and the stamp presents with excellent visual appeal.

• Collector Grade Example: This piece is a clean example of a precanceled stamp from 1918. It is ready for immediate inclusion in a high-end collection or exhibit focusing on early U.S. Air Post.

Key Details for Collectors

This piece is a classic from the revolutionary period of U.S. Air Mail. Examples featuring the desirable vertical precancel orientation are always in demand by collectors who build specialized sets based on printing and cancellation varieties. This is an opportunity to acquire an airmail icon with a unique postal history story!