Encased postage stamp, 10-cent green George Washington issue (Scott #70). Patented August 12, 1862, by John Gault. Stamped brass casing with beaded outer rim, retaining clear protective mica disc over the stamp on the obverse. Reverse embossed in bold relief: "APPLICATIONS FOR ADVERTISING / ON THIS CURRENCY / PAT. AUG. 12, 1862. / TO BE / ADDRESSED TO / KIRKPATRICK & / GAULT / NO. 1, / PARK PLACE / N. Y."

Invented by entrepreneur John Gault in the summer of 1862, encased postage provided an ingenious private solution to the severe small change shortage that paralyzed the Union economy when citizens began hoarding gold and silver coins. By enclosing official U.S. postage stamps inside protective brass frames, Gault transformed fragile stamps into durable pocket currency while selling the reverse brass surfaces to prominent businesses for commercial advertising. Pieces bearing Gault's own promotional backmark - "Kirkpatrick & Gault" were used directly by the firm to advertise and market their patent to prospective merchants. Examples in this condition are challenging to find on the market. 

[Encased Postage, Civil War Tokens, Numismatics, Civil War Currency, Kirkpatrick and Gault, John Gault, 10 Cent Stamp, George Washington, Scott 70, EP-26, Emergency Money, 19th Century Currency, Civil War Economy]

Very fine condition overall. The 10-cent green stamp remains rich, vibrant, and well-centered. The brass case displays a warm, undisturbed natural bronze patina with crisp, well-struck reverse lettering and clean rim beads.