$200.00
Trial color proof of tye 10¢ Type R revenue stamp imprint in blue with vertical red, tan, and gray ruled lines. This is an experimental proof, a prototype of James Duthie’s 1872 patented method for preventing reuse.
Duthie was an engraver who later became the manager of the American Phototype Company. His patent called for printing a series of colored lines using writing ink. Attempting to alter the writing on a document with ink eradicator would dissolve the lines and show evidence of tampering.
The slightly dingy appearance is typical for copies of these blue proofs. HR does not show through face, mentioned for accuracy.