�First US perforated stamp� could bring collectors Down East for $10,000

A US 90 cents blue, issued between 1857 and 1861, is among the top lots at Downeast Stamps' May auction in Maine, United States.

The specimen, which bears the likeness of George Washington, was one of the first perforated stamps to emerge in the US. Perforations only came into use in 1857.

This used item contains a red grill cancel and is said to be in almost fine condition, despite some slight tears. With a valuation of $10,000 it is sure to attract philatelic investors on May 18.

This US 90 cents specimen is worth considerably more these days

The auction will also feature a red brown five cents issued between 1861 and 1866. Graded as very fine to extra fine, this lightly disturbed, original gum specimen has an estimate of $5750.

Collectors looking for rare stamps in the private market may also be interested by these British issues from the same period.