The Bureau of Engraving and Printing. The BEP was established in 1862 during the turbulence of the Civil War. As the conflict erupted at Fort Sumter, the nation faced a severe financial crisis, lacking the funds needed to sustain the war. In response, President Lincoln called a special session of Congress, where Secretary of the Treasury Salmon P. Chase proposed issuing non-interest-bearing notes that would circulate as currency, along with a system of internal taxation. Congress approved this plan, marking the beginning of government-issued paper currency. Initially, these notes were produced by New York bank companies and signed by Treasury officials, a method that soon proved impractical. Consequently, it was decided that the required signatures and Treasury seal would be imprinted on the notes, and the BEP began its operations on August 29, 1862. The BEP initially printed stamps for beer and cigars, expanding to produce nearly all revenue stamps by 1878. Despite criticism regarding its capabilities, the BEP won the contract. Since then, with few exceptions, the BEP has printed most U. Today, it stands as the world’s largest securities printing firm. Located in Washington, D. It operates in two specially constructed facilities, covering approximately 24 acres, with over 3,300 employees working around the clock, 24 hours a day. This rare stamp, a true gem of American postal history, symbolizes not only excellence in printing but also the transition from privately managed production to a meticulously government-operated process. Every detail reflects the care and quality that marked one of the first issues produced directly by the government, making it an essential acquisition for collectors who value history and authenticity.