U. S. Scott #863 - MNH - F/VF Condition

Item Specifics

Country

United States

Catalog Number

863

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 #863

1. Design Description
This stamp commemorates Samuel L. Clemens, better known as Mark Twain, one of America’s most celebrated authors. It features an engraved portrait of Clemens within an ornate oval frame, complemented by a rich brown color. The 10-cent denomination is prominently displayed at the bottom right, and "United States Postage" is clearly printed at the top.

2. Soundness
Condition: The stamp is mint, never hinged (NH), and retains its original gum (OG).
Faults: No visible faults are present on either the front or back. The gum is evenly applied 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 closer to the perforations. However, all framelines remain intact, with sufficient white space between the design and the perforations.
This centering qualifies as Fine-Very Fine (F-VF) under the PSE guidelines.

4. Perforations
Condition: The perforations are uniform, clean, and complete. No short, pulled, or irregular perforations are visible, supporting the faultless soundness grade.

5. Eye Appeal
Factors Considered: Eye appeal evaluates freshness, color quality, and overall visual impact—not centering.
Color and Freshness:
The stamp exhibits rich, deep brown color with no fading or discoloration.
The original gum further enhances its freshness and visual appeal.
Bonus: The vibrant color and excellent condition warrant a +2-point bonus for eye 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 Scott #863 with original gum, faultless soundness, and Fine-Very Fine centering. The vibrant brown color and excellent freshness enhance its overall eye appeal, justifying a slight bonus. This is a highly collectible example of this issue.

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