U. S. Scott #221 - Used [SD22-0001-06-04]

Item Specifics

Country

United States

Catalog Number

221

Stamp Type

General Issue

Condition

Used

Stamp Format

Single

Certificate Grade

65 & Below

Year of Issue

1890

Item Description

Stamp Evaluation – Scott #221 (Used, Hinged – Single Stamp)
3¢ Purple – Andrew Jackson, 1890
(U.S. Regular Issue – First Bureau Issue, Unwatermarked Soft Paper)

Design Overview:
Scott #221 features a left-facing engraved portrait of Andrew Jackson framed by classical scrollwork. Denomination numerals “3” appear in each lower corner with the words “THREE CENTS” centered below the oval. Issued in 1890, this stamp was part of the final series printed by the American Bank Note Company and was produced on unwatermarked soft paper using flat plate printing.

The example submitted is used, hinged, and has no original gum. A black circular date stamp cancel is present, and minor faults are noted on the reverse.

Grading Breakdown:
Centering Grade: 78 (Fine/Very Fine)
The left and right margins are balanced and full, while the top and bottom margins are narrow but show clear white space. All perforations are clear of the design. According to the 2009 PSE Grading Guide, these characteristics qualify for Fine/Very Fine centering (75–79 range).

Soundness Evaluation:
The stamp shows a small thin on the reverse (approximately 1–4 mm), a hinge remnant, and light pencil notation on the back. These issues qualify for the Fault classification according to PSE standards.
Soundness Classification: Fault
Soundness Deduction: –30 points

Perforations and Margins:
The stamp is perforated 12 on all sides as expected for the issue. All perforations are intact and fully formed, with no evidence of trimming or clipping. Margins are visually consistent with the Fine/Very Fine centering grade.

Eye Appeal Adjustment:
The stamp has a lightly applied black circular date stamp cancel that overlaps Andrew Jackson’s face but does not obscure the portrait or inscriptions. The cancel improves overall presentation.
Eye Appeal Adjustment: +10 points

Final Numerical Grade Calculation:
Centering Grade: 78 (Fine/Very Fine)
Soundness Deduction: –30 (Fault)
Adjusted Base Grade: 48
Eye Appeal Adjustment: +10 (Light Cancel)
Final Grade: 58 (Very Good – VG)

Final Summary:
Scott Number: 221
Condition: Used, Hinged, No Original Gum
Centering: 78 (Fine/Very Fine)
Soundness: Fault (small thin, hinge remnant, pencil notation on back)
Perforations: Perf 12, intact and consistent
Eye Appeal: +10 points (light circular cancel enhances appearance)
Final Grade: 58 (Very Good – VG)

Final Verdict:
This used, hinged example of Scott #221 exhibits Fine/Very Fine centering with all four margins clear of the design. Faults on the reverse, including a small thin and hinge remnant, lower the numerical grade, but the light, well-placed cancel improves the visual appeal. The final grade is 58 (Very Good) per the 2009 PSE Grading Guide.

Seller Information

Seller

jamisonenterprises (1020)

Registered Since

03/18/2005

Feedback

100%

Store

Jamison Stamps & Books

Item Location

California, United States

Ships To

Worldwide

Returns Accepted

No

Public Questions