U. S. Scott #861 - MNH - F/VF Condition

Item Specifics

Country

United States

Catalog Number

861

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 #861

1. Design Description
This stamp commemorates Ralph Waldo Emerson, the renowned American essayist and philosopher. It features a finely engraved profile of Emerson within an ornate oval frame. The vibrant purple color highlights the detailed linework. The 3-cent denomination is prominently displayed at the bottom right, with "United States Postage" at the top, indicative of the series' high-quality craftsmanship.

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

3. Centering
Grade: 76 (Fine-Very Fine)
The stamp is noticeably off-center, with one or two sides significantly closer to the perforations. However, the framelines remain visible, with adequate white space between the design and the perforations.
This centering meets the criteria for Fine-Very Fine (F-VF) in the PSE guidelines.

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

5. Eye Appeal
Factors Considered: Eye appeal is based on factors such as color, freshness, and overall visual impression—not centering.
Color and Freshness:
The stamp displays strong, vibrant purple ink with no signs of fading or discoloration.
The original gum enhances its freshness, making it visually appealing.
Bonus: Due to its bright color and excellent freshness, the stamp earns a +2-point bonus for enhanced visual appeal.

6. Final Grade Calculation
Centering Grade: 76 (Fine-Very Fine, F-VF)
Soundness Grade: Faultless (no deductions).
Eye Appeal Bonus: +2 points for color and freshness.
Final Numeric Grade: 78 (Fine-Very Fine, F-VF)

Final Assessment
Final Grade: 78 (Fine-Very Fine, F-VF)

Description:
A mint, never-hinged example of Scott #861 with original gum, faultless soundness, and Fine-Very Fine centering. The bright purple color and freshness enhance the stamp’s overall appeal, justifying a small eye appeal bonus. This collectible is in excellent condition for its grade.

Seller Information

Seller

jamisonenterprises (670)

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