U. S. Scott #248 - Used - VF Condition

Item Specifics

Country

United States

Catalog Number

248

Stamp Type

General Issue

Condition

Used

Centering

VF

Stamp Format

Single

Certificate Grade

80 (VF)

Year of Issue

1894

Item Description

Stamp Overview
Scott #248: 2-cent Washington issue from 1894, part of the Bureau of Engraving and Printing's first regular issues.
Design: The stamp features a profile portrait of George Washington in an ornate frame. The denomination "TWO CENTS" is prominently displayed at the bottom, and "UNITED STATES POSTAGE" is inscribed above.
Color: Carmine.
Condition: Used stamp, never hinged, and no gum.

Front Analysis
Centering
The stamp is slightly off-center on one or two sides. However, the framelines are not close to the edge, and all four margins are full and well clear of the perforations.
Centering Grade: 81 (Very Fine).

Perforations
The perforations are intact and clean, with no evidence of short or pulled perfs. The edges remain uniform and consistent.

Eye Appeal
The cancellation is moderately heavy, crossing over Washington’s portrait. While it does obscure some details, the rich carmine color and clear design balance out the visual impact.
Eye Appeal Adjustment: No penalty is applied, as the cancellation is typical for this issue and does not overly detract from the design.

Back Analysis
Soundness
The back is free of structural faults such as thins, tears, or creases. The pencil marking "248" is a typical collector notation and does not affect grading.
There is no evidence of hinging, confirming the stamp as never hinged in its post-use condition.

Grading Summary
Centering Grade: 81 (Very Fine).
Soundness: Faultless, with no structural issues.
Eye Appeal Adjustment: No deductions for the cancellation.

Final Grade Calculation:
Base Grade: 81 (Very Fine).
Soundness Adjustment: No deductions.
Eye Appeal Adjustment: No deductions.
Final Numerical Grade
81 (Very Fine).

Conclusion
Design: 2-cent Washington issue (Scott #248, 1894).
Centering: Very Fine (Grade 81).
Soundness: Faultless (no visible structural issues).
Cancellation and Eye Appeal: Moderately heavy cancellation with no significant impact.
Final Grade: 81 (Very Fine).

This stamp is an excellent example of the 2-cent Washington issue, with strong centering, no faults, and a well-preserved design.

Seller Information

Seller

jamisonenterprises (328)

Registered Since

03/18/2005

Feedback

100%

Store

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Item Location

California, United States

Ships To

Worldwide

Returns Accepted

Yes

Public Questions