U. S. Scott #309 - Used [LA01-0014-03-03]

Item Specifics

Country

United States

Catalog Number

309

Stamp Type

General Issue

Condition

Used

Centering

VG & Below

Stamp Format

Single

Certificate Grade

65 & Below

Year of Issue

1903

Item Description

Stamp Evaluation – Scott #309 (Used, Hinged – Single Stamp)
15¢ Olive Green – Henry Clay, 1903
(Series of 1902 – Engraved, Flat Plate Printing, Perf 12)

Design Overview:
Scott #309, part of the 1902 ornate definitive series, features an engraved olive green portrait of Henry Clay, the influential 19th-century statesman. The design includes classical symmetry with allegorical flourishes, “CLAY” inscribed beneath the portrait, and Clay’s birth and death dates (1777–1852) flanking either side. This example is used, has been previously hinged, and retains no original gum.

Grading Breakdown:
Centering Grade: 52 (Very Good)
The right and bottom perforations slightly impinge upon the outer frameline of the design, while the left and top margins are slightly more generous but still within a narrow tolerance. This is consistent with the 2009 PSE definition of Very Good centering, where perforations may touch or very slightly cut into the design.

Soundness Evaluation:
The stamp exhibits one very minor fault: a visible hinge remnant on the back, lightly raised with faint discoloration. No other faults such as thins, creases, or tears are noted.
Soundness Classification: Very Minor Fault
Soundness Deduction: –10 points

Perforations and Margins:
The stamp is perforated 12 on all four sides, consistent with the production standard for this issue. All perforation tips are intact, with no blunt, ragged, or fuzzy holes. The margins on the right and bottom are tight and slightly impinge on the design, while the top and left are slightly wider. There is no indication of trimming or reperforation.

Eye Appeal Adjustment:
The stamp bears a black cancel that crosses diagonally through Clay’s portrait, specifically obscuring the nose and mouth. Additional cancel markings are visible along the right edge. While not completely obliterating the design, the cancel significantly affects portrait visibility.
Eye Appeal Adjustment: –10 points
Cancellation Classification: Heavy Cancel

Final Numerical Grade Calculation:
Centering Grade: 52 (Very Good)
Soundness Deduction: –10 (Very Minor Fault)
Adjusted Base Grade: 42
Eye Appeal Adjustment: –10
Final Grade: 32 (Good – G)

Final Summary:
Scott Number: 309
Condition: Used, Hinged, No Gum
Centering: Very Good (52)
Soundness: Very Minor Fault (hinge remnant)
Perforations: Perf 12, intact on all four sides
Cancellation: Heavy cancel crossing portrait and right margin
Eye Appeal: –10 point deduction
Final Grade: 32 (Good – G)

Final Verdict:
This used, hinged example of Scott #309 from the 1902 Series maintains strong design clarity and intact perforations. However, its centering is limited by narrow right and bottom margins, and a heavy black cancel significantly detracts from visual appeal. The presence of a hinge remnant results in a Very Minor Fault designation. Based on the 2009 PSE Grading Guide, the final grade for this stamp is 32 (Good – G).

Seller Information

Seller

jamisonenterprises (896)

Registered Since

03/18/2005

Feedback

100%

Store

Jamison Stamps & Books

Item Location

California, United States

Ships To

Worldwide

Returns Accepted

No

Public Questions