U. S. Scott #612 - Used [LA01-0028-05-03]

Item Specifics

Country

United States

Catalog Number

612

Stamp Type

General Issue

Condition

Used

Stamp Format

Single

Certificate Grade

65 & Below

Year of Issue

1923

Item Description

Stamp Evaluation – Scott #612 (Unused, Never Hinged – Single Stamp)
2¢ Black – Warren G. Harding, 1923
(Rotary Press Printing – Memorial Issue, Perf 11)

Design Overview:
Scott #612 is the 2¢ black Warren G. Harding rotary press printed memorial stamp issued in 1923, perforated 11. The design features a profile portrait of Harding facing left, set within an oval frame accented by scrollwork. The years “1865” and “1923” commemorate his birth and death, while “UNITED STATES POSTAGE” arcs across the top. The denomination “2 CENTS” appears at the bottom, flanked by numeral “2” tablets in each lower corner.

The example submitted is unused, never hinged, and retains full original gum.

Grading Breakdown:
Centering Grade: 50 (Very Good)
The design is significantly off-center to the right, with the perforations on the right side touching and possibly slightly cutting into the design. The left and bottom margins show some white space, consistent with Very Good centering as defined by the 2009 PSE Grading Guide.

Soundness Evaluation:
The stamp shows no thins, creases, tears, or other structural flaws. The gum is full, bright, and undisturbed, consistent with never hinged condition. There is no discoloration or toning visible under normal light.
Soundness Classification: Faultless
Soundness Deduction: 0 points

Perforations and Margins:
The perforations are full and intact, with no ragged or shortened teeth. While fully formed, the perforations encroach closely on the right side of the design. Margins are narrow on the right but adequate on the other three sides.

Eye Appeal Adjustment:
The stamp has strong black color, sharp impression, and clean, full original gum. Although the centering affects overall balance, the vibrant color and clean gum support its visual appeal.
Eye Appeal Adjustment: 0 points

Final Numerical Grade Calculation:
Centering Grade: 50 (Very Good)
Soundness Deduction: 0 (Faultless)
Eye Appeal Adjustment: 0
Final Grade: 50 (Very Good – VG)

Final Summary:
Scott Number: 612
Condition: Unused, Never Hinged, Original Gum
Format: Rotary Press, Perf 11
Centering: 50 (Very Good – VG)
Soundness: Faultless
Perforations: Fully intact, slightly encroaching on design at right
Eye Appeal: Strong color and clean overall appearance
Final Grade: 50 (Very Good – VG)

Final Verdict:
This unused, never hinged example of Scott #612 earns a final numerical grade of 50 (Very Good). While the centering brings the perforations into the design at the right margin, the stamp is faultless and exhibits strong black color and crisp impression. It remains a solid entry-level Harding memorial rotary press issue for collectors prioritizing freshness and original gum over margin balance.

Seller Information

Seller

jamisonenterprises (1021)

Registered Since

03/18/2005

Feedback

100%

Store

Jamison Stamps & Books

Item Location

California, United States

Ships To

Worldwide

Returns Accepted

No

Public Questions