U. S. Scott #310 - Used - Graded Good (LA01-0014-04-01)

Item Specifics

Country

United States

Catalog Number

310

Stamp Type

General Issue

Condition

Used

Centering

Fine

Stamp Format

Single

Year of Issue

1903

Item Description

Stamp Evaluation – Scott #310 (Used, Hinged – Single Stamp)
50¢ Orange – Thomas Jefferson, 1903
(Series of 1902 – Engraved, Flat Plate Printing, Perf 12)

Design Overview:
Scott #310 is a 50¢ high-value definitive stamp issued in 1903 as part of the ornate Series of 1902. The design features a central engraved portrait of Thomas Jefferson, flanked by classical scrollwork and inscriptions. “POSTAGE FIFTY CENTS” spans the base of the frame, and Jefferson’s life dates (1743–1826) appear below his name. This example is postally used, has been previously hinged, and does not retain any original gum.

Grading Breakdown:
Centering Grade: 71 (Fine/Very Fine)
All four sides display visible white space between the perforations and the design. The left margin is wider than the top and right, which are slightly narrower but still clear of the design. The stamp qualifies as Fine/Very Fine under the 2009 PSE Grading Guide.

Soundness Evaluation:
The stamp presents a combination of Very Minor and Extremely Minor Faults. A hinge remnant is visible on the reverse, along with a small perf tip crease near the upper edge. Additionally, two perforation tips—one at the top and one at the bottom—are shortened to about half the standard length.
Soundness Classification: Minor Fault
Soundness Deduction: –30 points

Perforations and Margins:
The stamp is perforated 12 on all four sides, consistent with the issue. Most perforations are intact, but two tips are shortened. No evidence of reperforation or trimming is observed. The margins remain fully outside the design, with tighter spacing at the top and right.

Eye Appeal Adjustment:
A black circular cancellation crosses vertically along the right side of the stamp, passing through Jefferson’s face and part of the right numeral. The cancel is bold and visually noticeable but does not entirely obscure the portrait. This qualifies as a Heavy cancel under the PSE eye appeal scale.
Eye Appeal Adjustment: –10 points

Final Numerical Grade Calculation:
Centering Grade: 71 (Fine/Very Fine)
Soundness Deduction: –30 (Minor Fault)
Adjusted Base Grade: 41
Eye Appeal Adjustment: –10
Final Grade: 31 (Good – G)

Final Summary:
Scott Number: 310
Condition: Used, Hinged, No Gum
Centering: Fine/Very Fine (71)
Soundness: Minor Fault (hinge remnant, perf tip crease, two short perfs)
Perforations: Perf 12, full on all sides, with two short tips
Cancellation: Heavy circular cancel across face and right edge
Eye Appeal: –10 point deduction
Final Grade: 31 (Good – G)

Final Verdict:
This used, hinged example of Scott #310 features solid centering and retains its full engraved detail and strong orange color. However, a combination of minor physical faults—such as a hinge remnant, short perforations, and a perf tip crease—contribute to a Minor Fault classification. A bold cancel across Jefferson’s face further reduces its visual impact. These elements result in a final PSE numerical grade of 31 (Good – G).

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

Public Questions