U. S. Scott #331 - Used - Graded F/VF (NA01-0049-01-01)

Item Specifics

Country

United States

Catalog Number

331

Stamp Type

General Issue

Condition

Used

Centering

F/VF

Stamp Format

Single

Certificate Grade

75 (F/VF)

Year of Issue

1908

Item Description

Stamp Evaluation – Scott #331 (Used, Hinged – Single Stamp)
1¢ Green – Benjamin Franklin, 1908
(Washington-Franklin Issue – Perf 12, First Series)

Design Overview:
Scott #331 is a 1¢ green definitive stamp issued in 1908 as part of the Washington-Franklin Issue series. It features a profile portrait of Benjamin Franklin framed by a laurel wreath, symbolizing honor and victory. “U.S. POSTAGE” is inscribed at the top with the denomination “ONE CENT” at the bottom. This issue is part of the first set of Washington-Franklin designs, recognized for their extensive use and numerous printings.

The example submitted is used, hinged, and has no original gum. It has one very minor condition issue: a hinge mark or hinge remnant.

Grading Breakdown:
Centering Grade: 78 (Fine/Very Fine)
The design is well clear of the perforations, though the margins are narrow on one or two sides. The minimum margin is approximately 0.4 mm, which meets the standard for Washington-Franklin issues. The framing is visually balanced but slightly off-center.

Soundness Evaluation:
The stamp has a hinge mark or remnant visible on the back, which is classified as a very minor fault. There are no major structural issues, such as creases, thins, or tears.
Soundness Classification: Very Minor Fault
Soundness Deduction: –6 points

Perforations and Margins:
The stamp is perforated 12, as expected for this issue. All perforation holes are intact and properly punched. Margins are narrow but fully clear of the design.

Eye Appeal Adjustment:
The stamp has strong green color and a light, well-placed cancellation that does not obscure the portrait.
Eye Appeal Adjustment: +3 points

Final Numerical Grade Calculation:
Centering Grade: 78 (Fine/Very Fine)
Soundness Deduction: –6 (Very Minor Fault – hinge mark)
Adjusted Base Grade: 72
Eye Appeal Adjustment: +3 (strong color and clean cancel)
Final Grade: 75 (Fine/Very Fine – F/VF)

Final Summary:
Scott Number: 331
Condition: Used, Hinged, No Original Gum
Centering: 78 (Fine/Very Fine)
Soundness: Very Minor Fault (hinge mark/hinge remnant)
Perforations: Perf 12, narrow margins, all intact
Eye Appeal: Strong green color, light and well-placed cancellation (+3 points)
Final Grade: 75 (Fine/Very Fine – F/VF)

Final Verdict:
This used example of Scott #331 has solid Fine/Very Fine centering with strong visual appeal. The hinge remnant slightly reduces the soundness grade, but a +3 point eye appeal bonus is applied for its vibrant color and clean cancellation. According to the 2009 PSE Grading Guide, the final numerical grade is 75 (Fine/Very Fine), making this an attractive collectible example.

Seller Information

Seller

jamisonenterprises (844)

Registered Since

03/18/2005

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Item Location

California, United States

Ships To

Worldwide

Returns Accepted

No

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