U. S. Scott #888 - MNH - VF Condition

Item Specifics

Country

United States

Catalog Number

888

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 #888

1. Design Description
This stamp honors Frederic Remington, an iconic American painter, sculptor, and illustrator known for his depictions of the American West. The design features an engraved portrait of Remington within an oval frame adorned with a laurel wreath. Artistic tools, such as a palette and paintbrushes, are included in the design to emphasize his contributions to the arts. His name is prominently displayed below the portrait, with "United States Postage" and the denomination "10 Cents" completing the composition. The sepia-toned brown ink enhances the engraving and gives the stamp a classic appearance.

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

3. Centering
Grade: 79 (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, supporting the faultless soundness grade.

5. Eye Appeal
Factors Considered: Eye appeal evaluates color, freshness, and overall visual impact—not centering.
Color and Freshness:
The stamp exhibits a rich and even sepia-toned brown color with no signs of fading or discoloration.
The original gum and sharp impression enhance the overall presentation.
Bonus: The stamp's vibrant color and freshness warrant a +2-point bonus for eye appeal.

6. Final Grade Calculation
Centering Grade: 79 (Fine-Very Fine, F-VF)
Soundness Grade: Faultless (no deductions).
Eye Appeal Bonus: +2 points for vibrant color and freshness.
Final Numeric Grade: 81 (Very Fine, VF)

Final Assessment
Final Grade: 81 (Very Fine, VF)

Description:
A mint, never-hinged Scott #888 with original gum, faultless soundness, and Fine-Very Fine centering. The stamp's rich sepia color and excellent freshness enhance its visual appeal, justifying a slight bonus. This collectible is well-preserved and a desirable example for this 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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