U. S. Scott #642 - Unused - Graded VG (LA01-0031-04-04)

Item Specifics

Country

United States

Catalog Number

642

Stamp Type

General Issue

Condition

Unused

Centering

F/VF

Stamp Format

Single

Certificate Grade

65 & Below

Year of Issue

1927

Item Description

Stamp Evaluation – Scott #642 (Unused, Hinged – Single Stamp)
10¢ Orange Yellow – James Monroe, 1926
(Series of 1922 – Flat Plate Printing, Perf 11, Unwatermarked)

Design Overview:
Scott #642 features a right-facing portrait of President James Monroe, set in an oval frame adorned with ornamental scrollwork. “UNITED STATES POSTAGE” is inscribed at the top, while “10 CENTS 10” appears in large numerals at the bottom corners. The stamp was issued as part of the 1922 definitive series, printed on unwatermarked paper using flat plate methods, and perforated 11 on all four sides.

This example is unused, bears full original gum, and has been previously hinged. It exhibits strong coloration and bold impression, though several physical flaws reduce its technical grade.

Grading Breakdown:
Centering Grade: 77 (Fine/Very Fine)
The margins are full on all sides, with no impingement into the design. The right margin is the narrowest, and the top is the widest. The bottom margin is slightly tighter than the left. The overall balance places the stamp solidly within the Fine/Very Fine classification according to the 2009 PSE Grading Guide.

Soundness Evaluation:
This stamp has several creased perforation tips, qualifying as a Minor Fault. In addition, it has two shorter perforations (each about half normal length) and a faint natural gum bend. The combination of one minor and multiple extremely minor faults meets the threshold for Minor Fault classification.
Soundness Classification: Minor Fault
Soundness Deduction: –20 points

Perforations and Margins:
The stamp is perforated 11 as expected. While the perforations are mostly intact, there are visible creases and two shortened tips. There is no indication of reperforation or trimming, and the margins remain within grading tolerance.

Eye Appeal Adjustment:
Despite the minor flaws, the stamp displays a strong orange-yellow color with sharp design clarity. The faults are subtle and do not compromise its presentation from the front. Therefore, no deduction or bonus is applied.
Eye Appeal Adjustment: 0 points

Final Numerical Grade Calculation:
Centering Grade: 77 (Fine/Very Fine)
Soundness Deduction: –20 (Minor Fault)
Adjusted Base Grade: 57
Eye Appeal Adjustment: 0
Final Grade: 57 (Very Good – VG)

Final Summary:
Scott Number: 642
Condition: Unused, Hinged, Original Gum
Centering: 77 (Fine/Very Fine)
Soundness: Minor Fault (perf tip creases, two short perfs, gum bend)
Perforations: Perf 11, with minor irregularities
Eye Appeal: No deduction or bonus applied
Final Grade: 57 (Very Good – VG)

Final Verdict:
This unused, hinged Scott #642 is visually appealing with bold color and strong centering, but several perforation issues and a gum bend reduce its technical score. It receives a final grade of 57 (Very Good) under the 2009 PSE Grading Guide, making it a solid collector piece despite minor flaws.

Seller Information

Seller

jamisonenterprises (737)

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