CSA #12 was printed by two different firms between 1863 and 1864 – the height of the devastating war.  Because of the Union blockade, high quality ink became scarce, and the quality of the stamps suffered. This stamp was printed in varying shades of blue and green. The 10¢ denomination paid the letter rate for all Confederate mail.  Its engraved design pictures the Confederacy’s president, Jefferson Davis.

 

CSA#12f is perforated 12 ½. The perforations were an experiment that showed they were not practical. The perforated stamps were offered for sale.