U. S. Scott #881 - MNH - Graded F/VF (LA01-0053-01-03)

Item Specifics

Country

United States

Catalog Number

881

Stamp Type

General Issue

Condition

Mint (NH)

Centering

F/VF

Stamp Format

Single

Certificate Grade

75 (F/VF)

Year of Issue

1940

Item Description

Stamp Evaluation – Scott #881 (Unused – Single Stamp)
3¢ Purple – Victor Herbert, 1940
(Famous Americans Series – Composers Group, Perf 11x10½)

Design Overview:
Scott #881 honors Victor Herbert, one of America’s most influential composers and conductors, best known for his operettas and orchestral compositions. Issued in 1940 as part of the Famous Americans Series – Composers Group, the stamp features a framed bust portrait of Herbert surrounded by musical instruments and a laurel branch, reflecting his classical influence and cultural prominence.

The example submitted is unused, never hinged, and retains full original gum.

Grading Breakdown:
Centering Grade: 76 (Fine/Very Fine)
The stamp is clearly off-center to the left and slightly low, resulting in a narrow left margin and slightly tight bottom spacing. Despite the imbalance, all four margins are clear of the design and provide adequate white space. Horizontal and vertical imbalance is present but within the criteria for Fine/Very Fine centering.

Soundness Evaluation:
The stamp retains full original gum and has never been hinged. There are no creases, thins, tears, or discolorations. The back is clean and free of ink transfer or other defects; the faint shadow of the design is a natural impression and not faulted.
Soundness Classification: Faultless
Soundness Deduction: –0
Adjusted Base Grade: 76

Perforations and Margins:
Perforations are strong, clean, and fully intact on all sides. The left margin is noticeably narrower than the others, while the bottom margin is slightly tight, but all margins remain clear of the design.

Eye Appeal Adjustment:
The stamp exhibits a rich purple hue with excellent saturation and a bold, crisp engraving. The overall freshness and brightness of the face, combined with flawless gum and strong color, enhance its visual appeal.
Eye Appeal Adjustment: +2

Final Numerical Grade Calculation:
Centering Grade: 76 (Fine/Very Fine)
Soundness Deduction: –0
Eye Appeal Adjustment: +2
Final Grade: 78 (Fine/Very Fine)

Final Summary:
Scott Number: 881
Condition: Unused, Never Hinged, Original Gum
Centering: 76 (Fine/Very Fine)
Soundness: Faultless
Perforations: Complete and undamaged
Eye Appeal: +2 (vivid color, fresh appearance)
Final Grade: 78 (Fine/Very Fine)

Final Verdict:
This Scott #881 – Victor Herbert 3¢ purple stamp is a fault-free and well-preserved example from the Famous Americans Series – Composers Group. Though slightly off-center, the stamp’s deep color, sharp impression, and overall freshness justify its final grade of 78 (Fine/Very Fine). It is an attractive and desirable addition for collectors seeking a clean and vibrant example of this commemorative issue.

Seller Information

Seller

jamisonenterprises (833)

Registered Since

03/18/2005

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Store

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Item Location

California, United States

Ships To

Worldwide

Returns Accepted

No

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