Unknown Essay ? Postes 25 Cent Stamp - Need IS

[Pocket Change]

Stamp as scanned - Appreciate any help on Identification

 

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Agony and Death on a Gold Rush Steamer: The Disastrous Sinking of the Side-Wheeler Yankee Blade - Grab it through Amazon!

[jeff of pa]

Postes is French for Posts

 

[jeff of pa]

listed as
Mexico - 1866 Emperor Maximilian

Italian essay in greenish blue



http://www.rumseyauctions.com/auctions/chapter/84/140

 

[Mackaydon]

For those who may not know what an 'essay' stamp is, here is Wiki's explanation:
In philately (stamp collecting), an essay is a design for a proposed stamp submitted to the postal authorities for consideration but not used, or used after alterations have been made.[SUP][1][/SUP][SUP][2][/SUP] By contrast, a proof is a trial printing of an accepted stamp.
Both essays and proofs are rare, as usually just a few are produced. Although intended for internal use by printers and official bodies, essays sometimes find their way onto the philatelic market.
Don......

 

[Pocket Change]

Jeff & Mac, many thanks again for another lightning fast outstanding identification & other info. I am sure that my stamp is a pure green counterfeit.
This site is one of the best on the internet. Respectfully, Bill in Spokane