U. S. Scott #1092 - Used - [LA01-0071-01-02]

Item Specifics

Country

United States

Catalog Number

1092

Stamp Type

General Issue

Condition

Used

Centering

F/VF

Stamp Format

Single

Certificate Grade

75 (F/VF)

Year of Issue

1957

Item Description

Stamp Evaluation – Scott #1092 (Used, Never Hinged – Single Stamp)
3¢ Bright Blue – 50th Anniversary of Oklahoma Statehood, 1957
(“Arrows to Atoms” Commemorative – Engraved, Perf 11×10½, Unwatermarked)

Design Overview:
Issued June 14, 1957, this 3¢ issue celebrates Oklahoma’s transition from its early frontier identity to a symbol of modern progress. The design, by William K. Schrage, embodies the state’s motto “Arrows to Atoms.” An arrow overlays an atomic orbital, spanning the outline of Oklahoma—linking Native American heritage with the atomic age. Engraved by the Bureau of Engraving and Printing, it is one of the most visually dynamic commemoratives of the 1950s, reflecting postwar optimism and technological pride. The example presented here is postally used, never hinged, and bears no original gum.

Grading Breakdown:
Centering Grade: 79 (Fine/Very Fine)
The stamp displays balanced centering overall, with the design fully clear of perforations. The right margin is the narrowest, and the left the widest. The bottom is slightly tighter than the top, giving the impression of a mild downward shift. Under 2009 PSE grading standards, the margins comfortably meet the Fine/Very Fine description—clear on all sides, though narrow in one or two areas.

Soundness Evaluation:
The paper remains strong, flexible, and completely free of creases, tears, or thins. The impression and color retention are excellent, with no oxidation, soiling, or surface abrasion. There are no gum or hinge remnants, and no hidden surface irregularities.
Faults Present: None. This is a faultless, fully sound example—an uncommon quality for a used issue of this era.
Soundness Deduction: –0 (Faultless)

Perforations and Margins:
Perforated 11×10½ as issued, with clean, evenly punched perforations. All perforation tips remain intact and untrimmed. The alignment along the vertical sides is slightly tighter on the right, consistent with rotary press sheet positioning. The horizontal margins are balanced and well-proportioned, providing a uniform frame around the design.

Cancellation Evaluation:
The cancel consists of a light black machine strike, composed of wavy horizontal lines. It is even, unobtrusive, and well-placed across the design, avoiding the text and atomic motif. Classified under the PSE Grading Guide as a Neat, Light Cancel, it enhances eye appeal by maintaining legibility and symmetry.

Collector’s Note:
This Oklahoma Statehood commemorative embodies the postwar celebration of scientific progress and state identity. Used examples with clean, crisp impressions and intact perforations are highly collectible. This specimen is particularly appealing due to its vivid color and balanced cancel.

Eye Appeal Adjustment:
Color saturation remains deep, and the blue hue is bright without signs of fading. The printing impression is bold, with excellent detail in the orbital lines and the atomic nucleus. The cancel adds moderate contrast without obscuring the design, qualifying for no penalty or bonus under PSE standards.
Eye Appeal Adjustment: ±0 points

Final Numerical Grade Calculation:
Centering Grade: 79 (Fine/Very Fine)
Soundness Deduction: –0 (Faultless)
Adjusted Base Grade: 79 (Fine/Very Fine)
Eye Appeal Adjustment: ±0
Final Grade: 79 (Fine/Very Fine)

Final Summary:
Scott Number: 1092
Condition: Used, Never Hinged, No Original Gum
Centering: 79 (Fine/Very Fine)
Soundness: –0 (Faultless)
Perforations: 11×10½, full and intact
Cancellation: Light machine cancel (no deduction)
Eye Appeal: ±0 (Excellent color and clarity)
Final Grade: 79 (Fine/Very Fine)

Final Verdict:
This used 3¢ Oklahoma Statehood commemorative exhibits clean perforations, strong design clarity, and vivid blue color. With flawless paper and an ideal cancellation, it fully merits its final PSE-equivalent grade of 79 (Fine/Very Fine). A visually balanced and technically sound used example of this iconic midcentury issue.

Seller Information

Seller

jamisonenterprises (939)

Registered Since

03/18/2005

Feedback

100%

Store

Jamison Stamps & Books

Item Location

California, United States

Ships To

Worldwide

Returns Accepted

No

Public Questions