1861-62 10¢ Washington - U.S. #68

U.S. #68, part of the Series of 1861-62, features a 10¢ Washington design. Here are the details:

• Earliest Known Use: August 20, 1861
• Quantity Issued: Approximately 27,300,000 (estimate)
• Printed by: National Bank Note Company
• Printing Method: Flat plate
• Watermark: None
• Perforation: 12
• Color: Yellow green

During the Civil War, despite decreased mail between North and South, overall mail volume increased as soldiers and families communicated. The 10¢ Washington stamp fulfilled the domestic first-class letter rate for letters sent over 3,000 miles, reflecting the increased rates for longer distances during that time.

Notably, U.S. #68 holds historical significance as the first U.S. stamp known to be used in Japan. Additionally, it was the first stamp known to be used to pay the Registry Fee, with a pair of stamps covering the fee for a double-rate letter from New York to London in 1867.

(PHOTO IS OF ACTUAL PRODUCT)