Type I. has, as we know, only points at the neck and eyes for shading purposes; the circle of pearls is very irregular.
Type II. The shading at the neck consists of fine lines, and under the eyes are long drawn points. A fine white line runs around the entire top of the head.
In Type III. the white line at the top of the head is almost invisible; under the eye are points similar to Type II., but in larger numbers. At the neck there are only lines. The points between the inscriptions, both at top and bottom, are hardly to be seen and often disappear altogether.
A Type IV. is also listed in few catalogues, but its existence has been clearly established. The peculiar break in the Greek ornaments, as is the case in the other types, is not found, but in other respects it resembles Type III., except in the inscription.
It is probable that after the plate of the third type was worn out the inscription was repaired, and for the third time enlarged, which is sufficient evidence to accept as a fourth type. As to the grade of rarity of these different types the following is probably correct (the lowest number being the commonest).
| Used. | Unused. | |
| Type I. | Seventh. | Fifth. |
| Type II. | Fourth. | Second. |
| Type III. | Third. | First. |
| Type IV. | Eighth. | Sixth. |
Early impressions of these four plates are very desirable.
A. E. Drake, 198 Marcy Avenue, Brooklyn wishes to exchange stamps. The last Peru issue are very common. Any dealer can supply at a fair price.
F. Rich.—The 90c. 1851 issue, unperforated, is probably a proof. The 24c. same issue is well authenticated.
J. B. Bryan.—To restore colors of stamps which have oxidized, or changed color, owing to chemical or atmospheric changes, to their original color, apply peroxide of hydrogen to the stamp with a small camel's-hair brush. After repeating several times soak the stamp in water and dry between blotters.
A. A. Hall.—In purchasing hinges, be careful to secure those having a gum known to be harmless. Some hinges have a gum that will eventually injure the stamp to which they are affixed, changing the color or causing the paper to turn yellow. For fifteen cents a thousand you can get the best hinges from any responsible dealer. You will probably not use over a million during your career as a collector, and the amount you save in purchasing an inferior grade is insignificant, while the proper preservation of your stamps will be materially aided in using those you know are reliable.
E. L. Smith, 64 Sparks Street, Cambridge, Mass., wishes to exchange stamps.
C. Rawson.—The 3c. Proprietary is worth 10c. perforated, several dollars if unperforated, with wide margins.
F. D. W. Laneland.—Your Chile stamp is probably a Revenue stamp. You do not give all the lettering, and I am therefore unable to say positively.
Philatus.