1879 5¢ Taylor - U.S. #185

U.S. #185
1879 5¢ Taylor

Earliest Known Use: January 15, 1879
Quantity issued: 42,000,000 (estimate)
Printed by: American Bank Note Company
Method: Flat plate
Watermark: None
Perforation: 12
Color: Blue

Continental Bank Note Co. was awarded a second contract spanning 1877-1881. On February 4, 1879, the American Bank Note Company took over Continental, assuming the ongoing contract. Since American acquired all the old plates previously utilized by National during their consolidation, the American Bank Note stamps all bear the same secret marks. Plates lacking prior secret marks remained unaltered.

Distinguishing between the stamps printed by Continental and American can be achieved by identifying which type of paper was used. Both National and Continental employed hard paper, characterized by its fairly white hue, smooth surface, and uniform thickness, with a degree of translucency when held up to light. Hard paper is sometimes described as having a grayish or bluish white appearance.

American, on the other hand, utilized soft paper, which is characterized by being thicker and having a coarser and uneven texture, presenting a yellowish tint and reduced translucency compared to hard paper.

Siege Of Veracruz

On March 9, 1847, the US launched its first large-scale amphibious assault during the Siege of Veracruz. This battle, part of the Mexican-American War, began in May 1846 due to the US annexation of Texas and border disputes. Major General Zachary Taylor led US forces in early victories at Palo Alto, Resaca de la Palma, and Monterrey.

After capturing Monterrey, Taylor gave the Mexican defenders an eight-week armistice, angering President James K. Polk. Polk's military advisors decided to attack Mexico City, leading to the Siege of Veracruz. Major General Winfield Scott led the assault, landing troops near Veracruz on March 9, 1847.

Veracruz was heavily fortified, but American forces successfully surrounded the city within three days. Bombing ensued until surrender negotiations began on March 26, resulting in the city's capture with minimal American casualties. With Veracruz secured, Scott proceeded to capture Mexico City.

(Photo is of Actual Product)