U. S. Scott #860 - MNH - F/VF Condition

Item Specifics

Country

United States

Catalog Number

860

Stamp Type

General Issue

Condition

Mint (NH)

Centering

F/VF

Stamp Format

Single

Certificate Grade

75 (F/VF)

Year of Issue

1940

Item Description

Detailed Analysis of Scott #860

1. Design Description
This stamp commemorates James Fenimore Cooper, the famed American author. It features a finely engraved portrait of Cooper set within a decorative oval frame. The 2-cent denomination is clearly displayed at the bottom right, and "United States Postage" is prominently printed at the top. The rich red color and intricate details are characteristic of this issue.

2. Soundness
Condition: The stamp is mint, never hinged (NH), and retains its original gum (OG).
Faults: No visible faults are present on the front or back of the stamp. The gum is evenly distributed and undisturbed.
Soundness Grade: Faultless—no deductions.

3. Centering
Grade: 77 (Fine-Very Fine)
The stamp is noticeably off-center, with one or two sides significantly closer to the perforations. However, all framelines are visible, with white space present between the design and the perforations.
This centering aligns with the Fine-Very Fine (F-VF) grade as per PSE guidelines.

4. Perforations
Condition: The perforations are clean, evenly cut, and intact. There are no short, pulled, or irregular perforations visible, further supporting the faultless soundness grade.

5. Eye Appeal
Factors Considered: Eye appeal evaluates freshness, color quality, and overall visual impression—not centering.
Color and Freshness:
The stamp exhibits bright, vibrant red ink with no signs of fading or discoloration.
The original gum enhances its freshness, giving it a visually pleasing appearance.
Bonus: The vibrant color and overall freshness warrant a +2-point bonus for enhanced visual appeal.

6. Final Grade Calculation
Centering Grade: 77 (Fine-Very Fine, F-VF)
Soundness Grade: Faultless (no deductions).
Eye Appeal Bonus: +2 points for color and freshness.
Final Numeric Grade: 79 (Fine-Very Fine, F-VF)

Final Assessment
Final Grade: 79 (Fine-Very Fine, F-VF)

Description:
A mint, never-hinged example of Scott #860 with original gum, faultless soundness, and Fine-Very Fine centering. The vibrant red color and strong freshness justify a slight eye appeal bonus, making this an attractive collectible for its grade and condition.

Seller Information

Seller

jamisonenterprises (673)

Registered Since

03/18/2005

Feedback

100%

Store

Jamison Stamps & Books

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Item Location

California, United States

Ships To

Worldwide

Returns Accepted

Yes

Public Questions