U. S. Scott #178 - Used - VG/F Condition

Item Specifics

Country

United States

Catalog Number

178

Stamp Type

General Issue

Condition

Used

Centering

F/VF

Stamp Format

Single

Certificate Grade

65 & Below

Year of Issue

1875

Item Description

Detailed Analysis of Scott #178

Stamp Design
Scott #178 is a classic U.S. issue from the 1870s, featuring a portrait of Andrew Jackson. The orange-red engraving highlights intricate details of Jackson's profile, framed by ornate design elements typical of the period. The stamp's historical significance and aesthetic appeal make it a sought-after piece for collectors.

Analysis Using PSE Guidelines
1. Soundness
Front: The stamp shows signs of normal wear for its age. The design is intact, but the heavy cancel obscures significant portions of Jackson's portrait. There are no visible tears, thins, or creases.
Back: The stamp has been hinged, leaving a visible mark on the reverse. There is no gum, which is typical for a used stamp of this era.

Fault Assessment:
Hinging is classified as a very minor fault per PSE standards.
Soundness Adjustment: -5 points for hinging.

2. Centering
The centering is noticeably off, with the left margin smaller than the right. However, there is white space between the frameline and the perforations, ensuring it does not fall below Fine-Very Fine.
The centering is consistent with a grade of 77 (Fine-Very Fine).
Centering Grade: 77

3. Perforations
The perforations are complete, with no pulled, short, or missing perfs. The perforations are clean and well-spaced for this issue.
Perforation Grade: Faultless.

4. Eye Appeal
The stamp's heavy cancelation obscures much of the design, particularly Jackson’s profile, reducing the visual clarity. This significantly impacts the aesthetic appeal.
The orange-red color remains bold and vibrant, which helps offset some of the negative effects of the cancel.
The overall appearance is diminished due to the cancel placement and intensity.
Eye Appeal Adjustment: -10 points (heavy cancel detracts significantly).

5. Final Numerical Grade Calculation
Base Centering Grade: 77
Soundness Adjustment: -5 for hinging (very minor fault).
Eye Appeal Adjustment: -10 for heavy cancelation.
Final Grade Calculation: 77−5−10=62

Final Grade Category:
Very Good-Fine (VG-F)

Summary
This is a used example of Scott #178 in Very Good-Fine (VG-F) condition with a Final Numerical Grade of 62. While the centering is consistent with Fine-Very Fine, the grade is reduced due to the heavy cancel, which impacts eye appeal, and the presence of a hinge mark on the back, which is considered a very minor fault. The perforations and soundness are otherwise excellent for a stamp of this vintage.

Seller Information

Seller

jamisonenterprises (377)

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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