U. S. Scott #509 - Used - Graded VG (LA01-0022-02-05)

Item Specifics

Country

United States

Catalog Number

509

Stamp Type

General Issue

Condition

Used

Centering

F/VF

Stamp Format

Single

Certificate Grade

65 & Below

Year of Issue

1917

Item Description

Stamp Evaluation – Scott #509 (Used, Hinged, No Gum – Single Stamp)
9¢ Salmon Red – Benjamin Franklin, 1917
(Washington-Franklin Series – Flat Plate Printing, Perf 11, Unwatermarked Paper)

Design Overview:
Scott #509 is a 9¢ salmon red Washington-Franklin issue, released between 1917 and 1919 as part of the perf 11 series. The design features an engraved left-facing profile portrait of Benjamin Franklin enclosed within a laurel wreath. The inscription “U.S. POSTAGE” is placed at the top, with the denomination “9 CENTS” in a curved panel at the bottom flanked by large numeral indicators in the lower corners.

This example is used, has been hinged, and no gum remains.

Grading Breakdown:
Centering Grade: 79 (Fine/Very Fine – F/VF)
The stamp’s centering falls within the Fine/Very Fine range, with all perforations well clear of the design. The left margin is slightly narrower than the right, while the top margin is slightly wider than the bottom, but all sides retain at least 0.4mm of white space, consistent with the grade.

Soundness Evaluation:
This stamp shows minor faults that place it in the Minor Fault category. A light crease is visible on the back, but it does not compromise the structural integrity. A hinge remnant is also present on the reverse, further confirming hinged status. Some slight discoloration is noted on the back, but this does not affect the front’s appearance. Perforations are intact and show no evidence of trimming or reperforation.
Soundness Deduction: –20 points

Perforations and Margins:
The stamp is perforated 11 on all four sides, standard for the issue. The perforations are slightly uneven along the top-right, but remain intact. The margins are balanced overall, with the left margin being the narrowest.

Eye Appeal Adjustment:
The salmon red color remains moderately vibrant, though slightly dulled with age. A moderate black circular cancel partially covers Franklin’s portrait. While the cancel is not obliterating, its placement affects visual balance. These factors warrant a deduction of 5 points for eye appeal.

Final Numerical Grade Calculation:
Centering Grade: 79 (Fine/Very Fine)
Soundness Deduction: –20 (Minor Fault)
Adjusted Base Grade: 59
Eye Appeal Deduction: –5
Final Grade: 54 (Very Good – VG)

Final Summary:
Scott Number: 509
Condition: Used, Hinged, No Gum
Centering: Fine/Very Fine (79)
Soundness: Minor Fault (light crease, hinge remnant, slight discoloration)
Perforations: Perf 11, intact, slightly uneven at top-right
Eye Appeal: Slightly dulled color, moderate circular cancel, –5 deduction
Final Grade: 54 (Very Good – VG)

Final Verdict:
This used, hinged example of Scott #509 shows Fine/Very Fine centering with intact perforations and solid front presentation. Its grade is reduced by a light crease, hinge remnant, and moderate cancel, producing a final grade of 54 (Very Good). While not a premium copy, it remains a collectible representation of the 9¢ Franklin issue in used condition.

Seller Information

Seller

jamisonenterprises (846)

Registered Since

03/18/2005

Feedback

100%

Store

Jamison Stamps & Books

• Bids
• Sales

Item Location

California, United States

Ships To

Worldwide

Returns Accepted

No

Public Questions