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Types of the 2¢ Washington: Definition of the Toga Button 
  The Lines of the Toga Button

Type I

Type Ia Type II Type III

The lines of the toga button are poorly defined. This is a typical example. Many Type I stamps have a clearer definition of these lines. Still, they will never be as sharp as those in the Type II stamp at right.

The lines in the toga button are well defined and sharp. In particular, the top outline of the toga button is complete. This is a defining feature of the Type Ia stamp. 

The lines in the toga button are well defined and sharp. In particular, the top outline of the toga button is complete. This is a defining feature of the Type II stamp. 

This is not a determining factor in the Type III, although, in general, it resembles the Type I much more than Types Ia and II in this regard.

It should be noted that the Type II stamps are usually much sharper and printed in a heavier ink than Types I and III. Note also, the rose carmine shade of the Type Ia stamp.

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