U. S. Scott #405 - Used - Graded VG/F (SL01-0001-05-04)

Item Specifics

Country

United States

Catalog Number

405

Stamp Type

General Issue

Condition

Used

Centering

F/VF

Stamp Format

Single

Certificate Grade

65 & Below

Year of Issue

1912

Item Description

Stamp Evaluation – Scott #405 (Used, Hinged, No Original Gum – Single Stamp)
1¢ Green – George Washington, 1912
(Washington-Franklin Series – Engraved Printing, Perf 12)

Design Overview:
Scott #405 is a 1¢ green engraved stamp issued in 1912 as part of the Washington-Franklin series. It features a left-facing profile portrait of George Washington framed by a wreath of laurel leaves, symbolizing honor and civic virtue. The inscriptions include “U.S. POSTAGE” at the top and the denomination “1 CENT” at the bottom, with large numerals flanking the denomination. This example is used, has been previously hinged, and does not retain its original gum.

Grading Breakdown:
Centering Grade: 77 (Fine/Very Fine – F/VF)
The design is clear of the perforations on all four sides. The left margin is the narrowest, with the top also somewhat tighter than ideal. The bottom margin is the widest, followed by the right, producing an unbalanced but acceptable appearance. This qualifies as Fine/Very Fine centering under the 2009 PSE guidelines.

Soundness Evaluation:
Faults Observed:
Very Minor Fault: Hinge remnant.
Very Minor Fault: Light ink transfer visible on the back.
These combined constitute a Minor Fault classification under PSE standards.
Soundness Deduction: –20 points

Perforations and Margins:
The stamp is perforated 12, consistent with the issue. The perforations are intact and show no evidence of clipping or reperforation. Margins are unbalanced, with the left being the narrowest and the bottom the widest.

Cancellation Evaluation:
The stamp shows a very light cancellation, unobtrusive and confined mostly to the upper left. The cancel does not impair recognition of the portrait or frame design. It qualifies as a light/neat cancel under PSE grading.

Collector’s Note:
Light cancels are highly desirable on Washington-Franklins, as heavy cancels often obscure Washington’s portrait. This example benefits from a relatively unobtrusive strike.

Eye Appeal Adjustment:
The green color remains fresh and strong, and the impression is sharp. The cancel placement enhances rather than detracts from presentation. A small positive adjustment is warranted.
Eye Appeal Adjustment: +5

Final Numerical Grade Calculation:
Centering Grade: 77 (Fine/Very Fine)
Soundness Deduction: –20 (Minor Fault)
Adjusted Base Grade: 57 (Very Good)
Eye Appeal Adjustment: +5
Final Grade: 62 (Very Good/Fine – VG/F)

Final Summary:
Scott Number: 405
Condition: Used, Hinged, No Original Gum
Centering: 77 (Fine/Very Fine)
Soundness: Minor Fault (hinge remnant, light ink transfer) –20
Perforations: Perf 12, intact and consistent with issue
Cancellation: Light cancel, unobtrusive, preserves portrait clarity
Eye Appeal: +5 for strong color and light cancel
Final Grade: 62 (Very Good/Fine – VG/F)

Final Verdict:
This example of Scott #405 demonstrates Fine/Very Fine centering, but multiple very minor faults result in a downgrade to Very Good/Fine (62). Its strong color and light cancel enhance its appearance, keeping it a collectible and visually appealing example under the 2009 PSE Grading Guide.

Seller Information

Seller

jamisonenterprises (846)

Registered Since

03/18/2005

Feedback

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Store

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Item Location

California, United States

Ships To

Worldwide

Returns Accepted

No

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