U. S. Scott #874 - MNH - F/VF Condition

Item Specifics

Country

United States

Catalog Number

874

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 #874

1. Design Description
This stamp commemorates John James Audubon, a renowned naturalist and ornithologist. It features a finely engraved portrait of Audubon within a rectangular frame. The design includes his name at the bottom and decorative elements framing "United States Postage" and the denomination "1 Cent." The deep green ink highlights the intricate engraving, creating a bold and striking appearance.

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 of the stamp. The gum is evenly distributed and undisturbed. There are no signs of creases, thins, or tears.
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, the framelines remain intact, and there is 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. There are no short, pulled, or irregular perforations visible, supporting the faultless soundness assessment.

5. Eye Appeal
Factors Considered: Eye appeal evaluates the stamp’s color, freshness, and overall visual impact—not centering.
Color and Freshness:
The stamp exhibits a vibrant green hue with no fading or discoloration.
The original gum and strong impression enhance the stamp's overall presentation.
Bonus: The deep green color and excellent freshness justify 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 vibrant 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 #874 with original gum, faultless soundness, and Fine-Very Fine centering. The stamp’s rich green color and overall freshness enhance its visual appeal, justifying a slight bonus. This is a well-preserved and desirable example of this issue.

Seller Information

Seller

jamisonenterprises (673)

Registered Since

03/18/2005

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Store

Jamison Stamps & Books

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Item Location

California, United States

Ships To

Worldwide

Returns Accepted

No

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