U. S. Scott #698 - MH [LA01-0034-02-02]

Item Specifics

Country

United States

Catalog Number

698

Stamp Type

General Issue

Condition

Unused

Centering

Fine

Stamp Format

Single

Certificate Grade

70 (Fine)

Year of Issue

1931

Item Description

Stamp Evaluation – Scott #698 (Unused, Hinged – Single Stamp)
20¢ Carmine Rose – Golden Gate, 1923
(Fourth Bureau Issue – Flat Plate Printing, Perf 11)

Design Overview:
Scott #698 features an engraved view of the entrance to San Francisco Bay, historically known as the “Golden Gate,” long before the Golden Gate Bridge existed. A tall ship sails majestically into the bay between the headlands, the scene captured in a bold carmine rose tone. Issued as part of the Fourth Bureau Issue, this stamp celebrates the maritime heritage and scenic grandeur of America’s Pacific coastline.

The example submitted is unused, hinged, and retains its original gum.

Grading Breakdown:
Centering Grade: 79 (Fine/Very Fine)
Top and right margins are wide and clear of the design. The left and bottom margins are slightly narrow but remain fully clear to the unaided eye. The overall framing is slightly biased toward the lower left corner but remains balanced enough to meet Fine/Very Fine centering standards.

Soundness Evaluation:
The stamp retains full original gum with a hinge remnant (evaluated separately). No tears, thins, creases, or surface abrasions are present. There is a slight discoloration visible, which qualifies as a Very Minor Fault per the 2009 PSE Grading Guide.
Soundness Classification: Very Minor Fault (discoloration)
Soundness Deduction: –7 points
Adjusted Base Grade: 72

Perforations and Margins:
Perforations are full, cleanly separated, and evenly punched on all sides. Margins are strong at the top and right, with the left margin narrower and the bottom slightly tight, though still clear of the design.

Eye Appeal Adjustment:
The stamp exhibits rich carmine rose color, excellent saturation, and sharp engraved detail. The natural original gum has a light toning from the hinge that does not affect the front appearance. The overall presentation is bright and fresh, warranting a modest eye appeal bonus.
Eye Appeal Adjustment: +2 points

Final Numerical Grade Calculation:
Centering Grade: 79 (Fine/Very Fine)
Soundness Deduction: –7 (Very Minor Fault – discoloration)
Eye Appeal Adjustment: +2
Final Grade: 74 (Fine – High End)

Final Summary:
Scott Number: 698
Condition: Unused, Hinged, Original Gum
Centering: 79 (Fine/Very Fine)
Soundness: Very Minor Fault (slight discoloration)
Perforations: Full and intact
Eye Appeal: Rich color, sharp impression (+2)
Final Grade: 74 (Fine – High End)

Final Verdict:
This unused, hinged example of Scott #698 is a strong representation of the Golden Gate issue. The vibrant color, sharp impression, and fresh presentation elevate its visual appeal. While a slight discoloration and hinge presence modestly reduce the grade, its final score of 74 (Fine – High End) reflects a collectible and attractive example of this iconic Fourth Bureau Issue stamp.

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