U. S. Scott #227 - Used - Graded FR/G (NA01-0033-05-01)

Item Specifics

Country

United States

Catalog Number

227

Stamp Type

General Issue

Condition

Used

Centering

F/VF

Stamp Format

Single

Certificate Grade

65 & Below

Year of Issue

1890

Item Description

Stamp Evaluation – Scott #227 (Used, Hinged – Single Stamp)
15¢ Dark Blue – Henry Clay, 1890
(U.S. Regular Issue – First Bureau Issue, 1890 Series)

Design Overview:
Scott #227 features an engraved portrait of Henry Clay, one of America’s most influential 19th-century statesmen, printed in dark blue. Issued in 1890 as part of the First Bureau Issue, the stamp is framed with intricate scrollwork and includes denomination numerals “15” in the lower corners. This issue was among the first stamps printed by the Bureau of Engraving and Printing, marking a shift from private contractors to government-printed postage.

The example submitted is used, hinged, and has no original gum. A light black circular date cancel partially overlaps the portrait but does not fully obscure Clay’s facial features.

Grading Breakdown:
Centering Grade: 77 (Fine/Very Fine)
The design is visually balanced with all four margins clear of the perforations. The left and bottom margins are slightly wider, while the top and right margins are narrower but maintain visible white space. These characteristics meet the criteria for Fine/Very Fine centering according to the 2009 PSE Grading Guide.

Soundness Evaluation:
The stamp exhibits multiple faults, including a large thin on the reverse (major fault), back discoloration (minor fault), two shorter perforation tips at approximately half normal length (very minor fault), and a hinge remnant (very minor fault). Under the 2009 PSE Grading Guide, the presence of a major fault, combined with additional minor issues, results in a Major Fault classification.
Soundness Classification: Major Fault
Soundness Deduction: –45 points

Perforations and Margins:
The stamp has standard 12-gauge perforations intact on all sides except for two shorter perforation tips along the right edge. No evidence of reperforation or trimming is present.

Eye Appeal Adjustment:
The stamp bears a heavy circular date cancellation that crosses Clay’s forehead and upper portrait. While the portrait remains visible, the cancel detracts from the overall visual clarity.
Eye Appeal Adjustment: –10 points

Final Numerical Grade Calculation:
Centering Grade: 77 (Fine/Very Fine)
Soundness Deduction: –45 (Major Fault)
Adjusted Base Grade: 32 (Good)
Eye Appeal Adjustment: –10 (Heavy Cancel)
Final Grade: 22 (Fair/Good – FR/GD)

Final Summary:
Scott Number: 227
Condition: Used, Hinged, No Original Gum
Centering: 77 (Fine/Very Fine)
Soundness: Major Fault (large thin), Minor Fault (discoloration on back), Very Minor Faults (two short perforations, hinge remnant)
Perforations: Standard 12-gauge, intact except for two shorter tips
Cancellation: Heavy black circular cancel, obscuring part of the portrait (–10 points)
Eye Appeal: Diminished by cancellation and minor wear
Final Grade: 22 (Fair/Good – FR/GD)

Final Verdict:
This used, hinged example of Scott #227 displays Fine/Very Fine centering, but its overall quality is reduced by a large thin, back discoloration, a hinge remnant, and two short perforations. A heavy cancellation further impacts its visual presentation. The final numerical grade is 22 (Fair/Good) under the 2009 PSE Grading Guide.

Seller Information

Seller

jamisonenterprises (827)

Registered Since

03/18/2005

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Store

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Item Location

California, United States

Ships To

Worldwide

Returns Accepted

No

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