George Washington vignette essay/proof, 1860s – 1920’s

Small George Washington essay/proof on white coated paper with blue BEP control number. Undated, this engravers stock proof was pulled in the 1920s or 30s, possibly as reference during the production of the 1932 Washington Bicentennial issue. This is the George Washington portrait die used on the 1863 Second Fractional Currency series. Penciled on the back is the name Rollins. Harry R. Rollins joined the BEP as apprentice engraver December 20, 1924; he became apprentice picture engraver July 28, 1927. He worked as a picture engraver with the BEP until his retirement July 22, 1944.

Essay: any design, or part of a design, essayed to or produced by a government (or established mail carrier) for a stamp and differing in design in any particular from an officially issued stamp.