USA postage Stamp year 1867 – 2c Andrew Jackson unused with grill
The 1867 2¢ Andrew Jackson “Black Jack” with Grill is one of the most famous stamp issues.
This status makes the USA postage Stamp notable in philately.
The embossed “grill” pattern was introduced by the National Bank Note Company to break paper fibers.
It also prevented people from washing off cancellation ink to reuse stamps.
Identification & Grill Types
Identification & Grill Types
The exact catalog value and rarity of an unused 1867 2¢ Black Jack depend entirely on the physical dimensions.
Additionally, these factors also relate to the embossed grill characteristics.
In pricing discussions, the USA postage Stamp context matters to collectors.
| Scott # | Grill Type | Grill Size / Description | Rarity (Unused) | Estimated Value Range (USD) |
| #84 | A Grill | ~15 x 18 mm (covers nearly whole stamp) | Extremely Rare | $100,000+ |
| #85 | B Grill | ~18 x 15 mm (points down) | Extremely Rare | $50,000+ |
| #85B | Z Grill | ~11 x 14 mm (points horizontal) | Very Rare | $10,000 – $50,000+ |
| #85c | C Grill | ~13 x 16 mm (points down) | Very Rare | $5,000 – $20,000 |
| #85D | D Grill | ~12 x 14 mm (points down) | Scarce | $2,000 – $8,000 |
| #88 | E Grill | ~11 x 13 mm (14 x 15–17 points) | Uncommon | $500 – $2,500 |
| #93 | F Grill | ~9 x 13 mm (11–12 x 15–17 points) | Most Common | $250 – $1,200 |
Note: Values vary significantly based on centering, original gum (OG) status, paper freshness, and absence of repairs or re-gumming.
Key Evaluation Factors for Unused Copies
- Gum Condition: Original Gum (OG) with full original sheen commands the highest premium. “Unused No Gum” (UNG) or re-gummed copies sell at a heavy discount.
- Grill Authenticity: Fake grills applied to non-grilled Scott #73 stamps are relatively common. A genuine grill shows clear impressions on both the front and back under angled light.
- Centering & Margins: Fine-Very Fine (F-VF) or higher grades dramatically increase realized auction prices.
- Expert Certification: Due to the prevalence of alterations and fake grills, expertizing certificates from recognized bodies (such as the Philatelic Foundation, PSE, or PSAG) are standard for verifying grill type and gum status.
