The number of the several values of these stamps issued, with the grille is approximated as above, it being not quite certain whether a few without the grille were not in stock at the dates from which the enumeration is made.
XXII.
The Issue of 1869.
The New York Evening Post of October 6th, 1868, also contains a notice of
"The New Contract For Postage Stamps.
In June last, Postmaster General Randall, advertised for proposals for furnishing the Government with postage stamps for a term of years. The Committee of experts appointed for the purpose, decided in favor of the National Bank Note Company, and on Saturday last, the Postmaster General awarded the contract to that Company for a term of four years. We have been shown proofs of the new stamps, and they reflect credit upon the artistic taste of the Company."
Some of these proofs are then described.
"One of the characteristics of the stamps manufactured by this Company is that the ink used prevents persons washing, and using the stamps a second time. The fiber in the centre of the stamp is broken completely, and they adhere better, while the ink of cancellation sinks into the paper. The engraving on these stamps are remarkable copies of historical pictures, and bear the test of microscopical examination."