U. S. Scott #865 - MNH - F/VF Condition

Item Specifics

Country

United States

Catalog Number

865

Stamp Type

General Issue

Condition

Mint (NH)

Centering

F/VF

Stamp Format

Single

Certificate Grade

75 (F/VF)

Year of Issue

1940

Item Description

Updated Analysis of Scott #865
1. Design Description
This stamp commemorates John Greenleaf Whittier, a notable American poet and abolitionist. It features an engraved portrait of Whittier framed within a decorative rectangular border. The denomination "2 Cents" is prominently displayed on either side at the bottom. The deep red color enhances the intricate engraving, making the design bold and elegant.

2. Soundness
Condition: The stamp is mint, never hinged (NH), with original gum (OG).
Fault: The stamp has a Very Minor Fault: a shorter perf. This slight defect is visible but does not detract significantly from the stamp's overall condition.
Soundness Deduction: A -5-point deduction is applied for the shorter perf.
3. Centering
Grade: 78 (Fine-Very Fine)
The stamp is off-center on one or two sides, but the framelines remain well clear of the perforations, and all margins are full.
This centering qualifies as Fine-Very Fine (F-VF) under the PSE guidelines.
4. Perforations
Condition: Aside from the shorter perf, the remaining perforations are clean, uniform, and intact. There are no other irregularities.
5. Eye Appeal
Factors Considered: Eye appeal evaluates factors like color, freshness, and overall visual impact—not centering or minor soundness issues.
Color and Freshness:
The stamp exhibits vibrant red ink with no fading or discoloration.
The original gum contributes positively to the stamp's visual presentation.
Bonus: The strong color and freshness warrant a +2-point bonus for eye appeal.
6. Final Grade Calculation
Centering Grade: 78 (Fine-Very Fine, F-VF)
Soundness Deduction: -5 points for the shorter perf.
Eye Appeal Bonus: +2 points for vibrant color and freshness.
Final Numeric Grade: 75 (Fine-Very Fine, F-VF)

Final Assessment
Final Grade: 75 (Fine-Very Fine, F-VF)
Description:
A mint, never-hinged Scott #865 with original gum, Fine-Very Fine centering, and a very minor fault (shorter perf). The stamp’s vibrant red color and excellent freshness enhance its overall visual appeal, justifying a slight eye appeal bonus. Despite the minor flaw, this is a desirable collectible in excellent overall condition.

Seller Information

Seller

jamisonenterprises (673)

Registered Since

03/18/2005

Feedback

100%

Store

Jamison Stamps & Books

• Bids
• Sales

Item Location

California, United States

Ships To

Worldwide

Returns Accepted

Yes

Public Questions