U. S. Scott #233 - Used - Graded Good (LA01-0010-01-04)

Item Specifics

Country

United States

Catalog Number

233

Stamp Type

General Issue

Condition

Used

Centering

Fine

Stamp Format

Single

Certificate Grade

65 & Below

Year of Issue

1893

Item Description

Stamp Evaluation – Scott #233 (Used, Hinged – Single Stamp)
4¢ Columbian Blue – Fleet of Columbus, 1893
(U.S. Commemorative Issue – Columbian Exposition Series)

Design Overview:
Scott #233 was issued in 1893 as part of the Columbian Exposition commemorative series. This 4¢ denomination, titled "Fleet of Columbus," depicts the Niña, Pinta, and Santa María departing Palos, Spain, in 1492. The intricate line engraving captures the historic nature of Columbus's voyage and is printed in a rich blue color.

The example submitted is used, hinged, and has no original gum. It bears a circular grid cancellation that is centered over the design but leaves most of the illustration visible.

Grading Breakdown:
Centering Grade: 70 (Fine)
The stamp is off-center with narrow margins on at least two sides. While the design is clear of the perforations, the visible white space is minimal. These characteristics qualify for a Fine centering grade under the 2009 PSE Grading Guide.

Soundness Evaluation:
The stamp exhibits multiple issues, including a small pinhole near the center of the back (minor fault), discoloration or staining on the lower back (minor fault), and dirt smudging or spotting on the back (very minor fault). According to the 2009 PSE Grading Guide, the presence of two or three minor faults, or a combination of minor and very minor faults, classifies the stamp as Fault.
Soundness Classification: Fault
Soundness Deduction: –25 points

Perforations and Margins:
The perforations are full and generally intact, though slightly blunt at the top and bottom. No major perforation faults, scissor trims, or repairs are present. The margins are uneven but adequate to meet the Fine centering threshold (minimum 0.2 mm).

Eye Appeal Adjustment:
The stamp bears a moderately heavy circular grid cancellation that obscures the top portion of the design, particularly the ship masts and the denomination area. The cancel is dark and reduces the visual appeal of the stamp. Additional minor soiling and the visibility of the pinhole on the reverse detract further from its appearance.
Eye Appeal Adjustment: –15 points

Final Numerical Grade Calculation:
Centering Grade: 70 (Fine)
Soundness Deduction: –25 (Fault)
Adjusted Base Grade: 45 (Good/Very Good – G/VG)
Eye Appeal Adjustment: –15 (Heavy Cancel and back issues)
Final Grade: 30 (Good – G)

Final Summary:
Scott Number: 233
Condition: Used, Hinged, No Original Gum
Centering: 70 (Fine)
Soundness: Fault (pinhole, back discoloration, smudging)
Perforations: Full, slightly blunt at top and bottom
Cancellation: Heavy circular grid cancel, obscures part of design (–10 points)
Eye Appeal: –15 points total deduction
Final Grade: 30 (Good – G)

Final Verdict:
This used example of Scott #233 from the 1893 Columbian Exposition Issue shows Fine centering but is affected by multiple faults, including a small pinhole, back discoloration, and minor soiling. A heavy circular grid cancel further reduces the eye appeal. According to the 2009 PSE Grading Guide, the final numerical grade is 30 (Good).

Seller Information

Seller

jamisonenterprises (854)

Registered Since

03/18/2005

Feedback

100%

Store

Jamison Stamps & Books

Item Location

California, United States

Ships To

Worldwide

Returns Accepted

No

Public Questions