U. S. Scott #880 - MNH - VF Condition

Item Specifics

Country

United States

Catalog Number

880

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 #880

1. Design Description
This stamp honors John Philip Sousa, a celebrated American composer and conductor known as the "March King" for his patriotic marches. The design features an engraved portrait of Sousa in a circular frame, complete with his military uniform and cap. Decorative elements, including a lyre and laurel leaves, flank the frame. His name is displayed prominently below the portrait, with "United States Postage" and the denomination "2 Cents" enhancing the design. The bold red ink highlights the intricate engraving, creating a striking and dynamic appearance.

2. Soundness
Condition: The stamp is mint, never hinged (NH), and retains its original gum (OG).
Faults: There are no visible faults on either the front or back. The gum is evenly applied and undisturbed. There are no signs of thins, creases, or tears.
Soundness Grade: Faultless—no deductions.

3. Centering
Grade: 78 (Fine-Very Fine)
The stamp is noticeably off-center, with one or two sides closer to the perforations. However, the framelines are intact, and there is sufficient white space between the design and the perforations.
This centering aligns with 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 observed, which supports the faultless soundness assessment.

5. Eye Appeal
Factors Considered: Eye appeal evaluates color, freshness, and overall visual impact—not centering.
Color and Freshness:
The stamp exhibits a bold and vibrant red hue with no signs of fading or discoloration.
The original gum and sharp impression enhance the stamp’s overall presentation.
Bonus: The vibrant color and excellent freshness justify a +2-point bonus for eye appeal.

6. Final Grade Calculation
Centering Grade: 78 (Fine-Very Fine, F-VF)
Soundness Grade: Faultless (no deductions).
Eye Appeal Bonus: +2 points for vibrant color and freshness.
Final Numeric Grade: 80 (Very Fine, VF)

Final Assessment
Final Grade: 80 (Very Fine, VF)

Description:
A mint, never-hinged Scott #880 with original gum, faultless soundness, and Fine-Very Fine centering. The stamp’s vibrant red color and excellent freshness enhance its visual appeal, justifying a slight bonus. This is a desirable and well-preserved collectible for its issue.

Seller Information

Seller

jamisonenterprises (673)

Registered Since

03/18/2005

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Item Location

California, United States

Ships To

Worldwide

Returns Accepted

No

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