U. S. Scott #1158 - Used - [LA01-0076-02-02]

Item Specifics

Country

United States

Catalog Number

1158

Stamp Type

General Issue

Condition

Used

Centering

F/VF

Stamp Format

Single

Certificate Grade

70 (Fine)

Year of Issue

1960

Item Description

Stamp Evaluation – Scott #1158 (Used Single Stamp, Uncanceled)
4¢ United States–Japan Friendship, 1960
(Commemorative Issue – Engraved/Intaglio, Perforated 10¼ × 10½)

Design Overview:
Issued in 1960 to honor the centennial of formal diplomatic relations between the United States and Japan, Scott #1158 presents a serene vertical design integrating symbols from both nations. The Washington Monument rises through a red-to-blue sky representing renewal and partnership, while cherry blossoms frame the composition to signal Japan’s cultural presence. Stylized clouds add balance to the lower section, and crisp intaglio engraving defines each element with clarity. The submitted stamp is classified as used due to the absence of gum but bears no cancellation, preserving full visibility of the design.

Grading Breakdown:
Centering Grade: 78 (Fine/Very Fine).
The stamp is clearly narrowest at the bottom margin, with the left margin modestly narrow as well. The top is slightly more generous, and the right side is widest. All perforations remain completely clear of the design, and the slight imbalance fits the PSE definition of Fine/Very Fine for later small-margin rotary press commemoratives.

Soundness Evaluation:
The stamp has one Very Minor Fault consisting of a shorter to short perforation measuring less than half normal length. This single defect lowers the soundness classification to Very Minor Fault. Under the 2009 PSE grid, Very Minor Fault soundness combined with Fine/Very Fine centering produces a Fine (70–74) result. The appropriate deduction is six points.

Perforations and Margins:
Perforations measure correctly at 10¼ × 10½ and are genuine. Except for the single short perforation, the perforation line is regular and evenly formed, with no evidence of trimming or reperforation. The margin structure supports the centering assessment, with ample white space visible on all sides despite the narrower bottom and left margins.

Cancellation Evaluation:
There is no cancellation present. The stamp’s face remains clean and entirely unobstructed, which enhances design visibility and slightly increases display appeal for a used-state example.

Collector’s Note:
Collectors of international-relations commemoratives value this issue for its elegant presentation and dual symbolism. Uncanceled used examples are comparatively uncommon and often desirable as they show the design in its complete engraved form without postal markings. The fresh color and strong impression add to its appeal.

Eye Appeal Adjustment:
The stamp displays vivid color, sharp impression, and a bright, undisturbed surface. No front-side detractors are visible, and the lack of a cancel preserves full aesthetic clarity. No adjustment is made for eye appeal.

Final Numerical Grade Calculation:
Centering Grade: 78 (Fine/Very Fine)
Soundness Deduction: –6 (Very Minor Fault)
Adjusted Base Grade: 72
Eye Appeal Adjustment: 0
Final Grade: 72 (Fine)

Final Summary:
Scott Number: 1158
Condition: Used, No Gum, Uncanceled
Centering: 78 (Fine/Very Fine)
Soundness: Very Minor Fault with a six-point deduction
Perforations: Correct gauge with one short perf
Cancellation: None
Eye Appeal: No adjustment
Final Grade: 72 (Fine)

Summary:
This uncanceled used example of Scott #1158 remains visually attractive with bright ink, crisp engraving, and balanced Fine/Very Fine centering. A single short perf introduces only a modest deduction, resulting in a final grade of 72 (Fine) under the 2009 PSE Grading Guide. It remains a pleasing and collectible example of this U.S.–Japan friendship commemorative.

Seller Information

Seller

jamisonenterprises (1009)

Registered Since

03/18/2005

Feedback

100%

Store

Jamison Stamps & Books

Item Location

California, United States

Ships To

Worldwide

Returns Accepted

No

Public Questions