5c Blue, Continental Grill
(179c). Original gum, clearly-defined grill with points that just
barely pierce paper as is usual for this issue, deep rich colorVERY FINE AND CHOICE. ONE OF THE FEW SOUND AND WELL-CENTERED EXAMPLES OF THE 5-CENT 1875 CONTINENTAL GRILL.
It is believed that the Continental grills were made experimentally in 1876, after a stamp-cleaning court trial renewed fears of stamp re-use. The primary source of the rare J Grills was the Worthington collection, which was dispersed in 1917. It is believed that most or all examples in collectors' hands came from the archive of Charles F. Steel, who patented the grilling machines used between 1867 and 1873. (Image)