U. S. Scott #C14 - MNH - Graded XF (AM01-C007-02-01)

Item Specifics

Country

United States

Catalog Number

C14

Stamp Type

Air Mail

Condition

Mint (NH)

Centering

XF

Stamp Format

Single

Certificate Grade

95 (XF/Superb)

Year of Issue

1930

Item Description

Stamp Evaluation – Scott #C14 (MNH, Original Gum – Single Stamp)
$1.30 Brown – Graf Zeppelin Airmail, 1930
(Zeppelin over Western Hemisphere – Transatlantic Route)

Design Overview
The $1.30 Graf Zeppelin airmail stamp, Scott #C14, was issued in 1930 to commemorate mail carried on the Pan American leg of the LZ 127 Graf Zeppelin's transatlantic journey. Depicting the zeppelin floating across the Atlantic between the Americas and Europe, the design includes detailed engravings of New York, Rio de Janeiro, and Friedrichshafen. Rich brown ink and exceptional composition make this stamp one of the most iconic in U.S. philately.

Grading Breakdown
Centering Grade: Extremely Fine (91)
Top Margin: Slightly tighter than bottom
Bottom Margin: Generous and full
Left & Right Margins: Balanced and even
Visual Centering: Slight vertical imbalance, but remains premium
Assigned Centering Grade: 91

Soundness Evaluation
Gum: Original gum, never hinged
Back Condition: No thins, creases, or spots.
Soundness Deduction: None
Adjusted Base Grade: 91

Perforations & Margins
Perforations: Complete, even, and neatly punched ✅
Margins:
Top: Narrowest margin, but still clear of design
Bottom: Broad and well-formed
Sides: Symmetrical and consistent
Margins are consistent with Extremely Fine centering.

Eye Appeal Evaluation
Aspect Assessment Impact
Color Rich and even brown tone ✅ +1
Impression Razor-sharp lines and deeply etched detail ✅ +1
Freshness Clean appearance, full gum, no toning ✅ +1
Balance Slightly higher than perfect, but well-composed ✅ 0
Visible Faults None visible from front or back ✅ 0
Eye Appeal Bonus: +3
The powerful composition, depth of color, and absence of visible flaws give this stamp exceptional display value.

Final Numerical Grade Calculation
Component Score
Centering Grade 91
Soundness Deduction 0
Subtotal 91
Eye Appeal Adjustment +3
Final Grade 94 (Extremely Fine) ✅

Final Summary
Attribute Details
Scott Number C14
Format Single Stamp
Condition Unused, Hinged
Gum Original Gum
Centering Extremely Fine (91)
Soundness Faultless – Hinged (evaluated separately)
Eye Appeal +3 – Deep color, crisp impression, pristine surface
Final Grade 94 (Extremely Fine) ✅

Final Verdict
This Scott #C14 – $1.30 Graf Zeppelin Airmail stamp stands out as a top-tier collectible. The near-perfect centering, untouched gum, and excellent aesthetic presence push this example into XF territory. With a final grade of 94, it is an exceptional choice for any advanced airmail or Zeppelin collection.

Seller Information

Seller

jamisonenterprises (722)

Registered Since

03/18/2005

Feedback

100%

Store

Jamison Stamps & Books

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Item Location

California, United States

Ships To

Worldwide

Returns Accepted

No

Public Questions