U. S. Scott #640 - Unused - Graded VG/F (LA01-0031-04-02)

Item Specifics

Country

United States

Catalog Number

640

Stamp Type

General Issue

Condition

Unused

Centering

Fine

Stamp Format

Single

Certificate Grade

65 & Below

Year of Issue

1927

Item Description

Stamp Evaluation – Scott #640 (Unused, Hinged – Single Stamp)
8¢ Olive Green – Ulysses S. Grant, 1926
(Series of 1922 – Flat Plate Printing, Perf 11, Unwatermarked)

Design Overview:
Scott #640 features a dignified portrait of President Ulysses S. Grant framed within an oval bordered by intricate scrollwork. “UNITED STATES POSTAGE” is printed above the portrait, with “8 CENTS 8” appearing at the bottom corners in large numerals. This definitive issue was printed using the flat plate method on unwatermarked paper, with standard perforation gauge 11 on all four sides.

The example is unused, has full original gum, and has been previously hinged. Its coloration is strong, but minor faults are visible on the reverse.

Grading Breakdown:
Centering Grade: 70 (Fine)
The stamp design is well clear of the perforation holes on all four sides, although the right and top margins are noticeably more narrow than the bottom and left. All margins retain visible white space without impinging on the design. This qualifies the stamp for the Fine centering grade under the 2009 PSE guidelines.

Soundness Evaluation:
The stamp shows a very light ink transfer on the back and a faint natural gum bend, both of which fall into the extremely minor to very minor category. As two such faults are present, the overall soundness classification is considered a Very Minor Fault.
Soundness Classification: Very Minor Fault
Soundness Deduction: –10 points

Perforations and Margins:
Perforated 11 on all sides, with no irregularities in spacing or condition. All perforations are intact, and the margins, though unbalanced, meet the standard for the assigned centering.

Eye Appeal Adjustment:
The front of the stamp is visually attractive, with sharp detail and vibrant olive green color. The minor flaws are limited to the reverse and do not diminish the presentation. No additional deduction or bonus is applied.
Eye Appeal Adjustment: 0 points

Final Numerical Grade Calculation:
Centering Grade: 70 (Fine)
Soundness Deduction: –10 (Very Minor Fault)
Adjusted Base Grade: 60
Eye Appeal Adjustment: 0
Final Grade: 60 (Very Good/Fine – VG/F)

Final Summary:
Scott Number: 640
Condition: Unused, Hinged, Original Gum
Centering: 70 (Fine)
Soundness: Very Minor Fault (light ink transfer, minor gum bend)
Perforations: Perf 11, intact and consistent
Eye Appeal: No deduction or bonus applied
Final Grade: 60 (Very Good/Fine – VG/F)

Final Verdict:
This unused, hinged example of Scott #640 shows well-balanced technical execution and bold visual presentation. Though minor faults prevent a higher score, the stamp maintains strong collector appeal and earns a final grade of 60 (Very Good/Fine) under the 2009 PSE Grading Guide.

Seller Information

Seller

jamisonenterprises (721)

Registered Since

03/18/2005

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Item Location

California, United States

Ships To

Worldwide

Returns Accepted

No

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