U.S. Scott #553 - Used - Graded FR/G

Item Specifics

Country

United States

Catalog Number

553

Stamp Type

General Issue

Condition

Used

Centering

F/VF

Stamp Format

Single

Certificate Grade

65 & Below

Year of Issue

1925

Item Description

Detailed Analysis of Scott #553

1. Design Description:
This 1½-cent stamp features a profile portrait of Warren G. Harding, the 29th President of the United States, in a rich brown color. The intricate border and bold typography emphasize the stamp's historical significance. However, the cancellation mark covers a significant portion of the design, detracting from its clarity.

2. Soundness:
Observation:
The stamp exhibits a large crease, which is classified as a Major Fault under PSE guidelines.
There is no evidence of other significant damage such as tears, thins, or missing perforations.
Evaluation: The large crease significantly impacts the stamp's structural integrity, categorizing it under Major Fault Soundness.

3. Centering:
Observation: The centering grade of 78 reflects noticeable off-centering, with one or two sides significantly closer to the perforations. However, white space is visible around the design, and the framelines are not cut into by the perforations.
Grade: 78, categorized as Fine-Very Fine (F-VF).

4. Perforations:
Observation: The perforations are intact and uniform, with no signs of damage or repair.
Evaluation: The perforations contribute positively to the stamp’s physical condition.

5. Eye Appeal:
Observation:
The cancellation mark is heavy, covering a large portion of Harding's profile, which significantly impacts the design's visibility.
The color remains vibrant and crisp, but the heavy cancellation and the large crease detract from its overall visual appeal.
Adjustment: A -10 deduction is applied for the heavy cancellation, which reduces the clarity and aesthetic value.

6. Final Numerical Grade Calculation:
Starting Grade (Centering): 78.
Soundness Deduction (Major Fault - Large crease): -40.
Eye Appeal Adjustment (Heavy cancellation): -10.
Final Grade: 28 (Fair-Good).

Summary:
Stamp: Scott #553 (Used, Never Hinged, No Gum)
Soundness: Major Fault (Large crease)
Centering Grade: 78 (F-VF)
Eye Appeal Adjustment: -10 (Heavy cancellation)
Final Grade: 28 (Fair-Good)

This stamp is in Fair-Good condition due to significant soundness issues (large crease) and a heavy cancellation mark, which obscures much of the design. The vibrant color and intact perforations provide some redeeming qualities, but the faults substantially reduce its grade and desirability for collectors.

Seller Information

Seller

jamisonenterprises (939)

Registered Since

03/18/2005

Feedback

100%

Store

Jamison Stamps & Books

Item Location

California, United States

Ships To

Worldwide

Returns Accepted

No

Public Questions