United States Scott #259 - Used

Item Specifics

Country

United States

Catalog Number

259

Stamp Type

General Issue

Condition

Used

Centering

VG & Below

Stamp Format

Single

Certificate Grade

65 & Below

Year of Issue

1894

Item Description

Description of United States Scott #259

Issue Date: 1894
Denomination: 15 cents
Color: Dark green
Subject: Henry Clay

Design: The stamp features a portrait of Henry Clay, an influential American statesman, and orator who served in both the House of Representatives and the Senate. The portrait is framed within an ornate border typical of the classic stamp designs of the late 19th century. Above the portrait is the inscription "U.S. POSTAGE," and below is the denomination "15 CENTS." The detailed engraving and intricate border elements highlight the artistic craftsmanship of the era.

Perforations: 12
Gum: Original gum
Watermark: Double-line USPS watermark

Henry Clay, known as the "Great Compromiser" for his efforts in brokering compromises on critical issues such as slavery and states' rights, is a significant historical figure. The stamp issued during the Bureau of Engraving and Printing era, is part of the series known for its fine engravings and attention to detail. This stamp is highly valued by collectors for its historical significance and aesthetic appeal.

Detailed Analysis of Scott #259

Front Description
Design: The stamp features a portrait of Daniel Webster, a prominent American statesman and orator.
Color: The stamp is a deep blue, typical of the Scott #259 issue. However, it shows some discoloration on the front, giving it a tired appearance.
Condition: The design is clear, but the discoloration detracts from its overall visual appeal. There is an average cancellation mark that partially obscures the design but does not overly detract from its overall appearance.

Back Description
Condition: The stamp has no gum, which is typical for a used stamp, and it has never been hinged. The back also shows some discoloration, contributing to the tired appearance.
Faults:
There is a tiny tear visible on the back.
There is one tiny and one small crease on the stamp, further affecting its soundness grade.

Centering
Observation: The edge of the frameline just touches the perforations on one side, but the perforations do not cut into the design. Some white space is visible, though it may be very narrow.
Grade: Very Good:
According to the centering guidelines, the stamp falls into the "Very Good" category because the frameline touches the perfs but does not cut into the design.

Soundness
Observation:
Tiny tear.
One tiny and one small crease.
Grade: Major Fault:
According to the soundness guidelines, the presence of a small crease along with a tiny tear categorizes this stamp under "Major Fault."

Perforations
Condition: The perforations are generally intact, although there is evidence of some minor wear, particularly on the bottom left corner where the perforations appear slightly irregular. However, this does not significantly detract from the overall condition.

Eye Appeal
Observation: The stamp shows discoloration on both the front and back, giving it a tired appearance. Despite the centering issue and the average cancellation, the discoloration further impacts the visual appeal.
Grade: Fair/Good:
The overall eye appeal is significantly impacted by the discoloration, placing it in the "Fair/Good" category.

Final Numerical Grade

Combined Grade:
According to the PSE standards for combining centering and soundness:
Very Good Centering + Major Fault Soundness: Fair (10-19)

Discoloration Adjustment:
The discoloration on both the front and back further lowers the eye appeal.

Final Numerical Grade: 15

This grade reflects the stamp's very good centering, major faults due to the tiny tear and creases, and the additional impact of the discoloration on its overall visual appeal.

Seller Information

Seller

jamisonenterprises (670)

Registered Since

03/18/2005

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Store

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Item Location

California, United States

Ships To

Worldwide

Returns Accepted

Yes

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