U. S. Scott #862 - MNH - VF Condition

Item Specifics

Country

United States

Catalog Number

862

Stamp Type

General Issue

Condition

Mint (NH)

Centering

F/VF

Stamp Format

Single

Certificate Grade

80 (VF)

Year of Issue

1940

Item Description

Detailed Analysis of Scott #862

1. Design Description
This stamp commemorates Louisa May Alcott, the renowned American author best known for her novel Little Women. It features an engraved portrait of Alcott within a decorative oval frame. The 5-cent denomination is prominently displayed at the bottom right, and "United States Postage" is positioned at the top. The blue ink enhances the elegance of the detailed engraving.

2. Soundness
Condition: The stamp is mint, with original gum (OG) and is never hinged (NH).
Faults: No visible faults are present on the front or back. The gum is even, undisturbed, and free from creases, thins, or other imperfections.
Soundness Grade: Faultless—no deductions.

3. Centering
Grade: 79 (Fine-Very Fine)
The stamp is slightly off-center, with one or two sides closer to the perforations. However, there is sufficient white space between the framelines and the perforations, ensuring the design is not compromised.
This centering aligns with the Fine-Very Fine (F-VF) grade under PSE guidelines.

4. Perforations
Condition: The perforations are uniform, clean, and intact. No short or pulled perfs are observed, supporting the faultless soundness assessment.

5. Eye Appeal
Factors Considered: Eye appeal evaluates the stamp’s color, freshness, and overall impression—not centering.
Color and Freshness:
The stamp’s rich blue color is strong and vibrant, with no signs of fading or discoloration.
The original gum further enhances its overall freshness and presentation.
Bonus: Due to its excellent color and freshness, the stamp qualifies for a +2-point bonus for eye appeal.

6. Final Grade Calculation
Centering Grade: 79 (Fine-Very Fine, F-VF)
Soundness Grade: Faultless (no deductions).
Eye Appeal Bonus: +2 points for color and freshness.
Final Numeric Grade: 81 (Very Fine, VF)

Final Assessment
Final Grade: 81 (Very Fine, VF)

Description:
A mint, never-hinged example of Scott #862 with original gum, faultless soundness, and Fine-Very Fine centering. The vibrant blue color and freshness enhance its overall eye appeal, justifying a slight bonus. This collectible is a fine example of its issue and an attractive addition to any collection.

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