U. S. Scott #637 - Unused - Graded VF

Item Specifics

Country

United States

Catalog Number

637

Stamp Type

General Issue

Condition

Unused

Centering

F/VF

Stamp Format

Single

Certificate Grade

80 (VF)

Year of Issue

1927

Item Description

Stamp Evaluation – Scott #637 (Unused, Hinged OG – Single Stamp)

Design Overview
Scott #637 is a 5¢ deep blue stamp issued in 1927 as part of the Fourth Bureau Issue. It features a finely engraved portrait of President Theodore Roosevelt in an oval frame. The portrait is flanked by large numeral "5"s with scrollwork embellishments, and the inscription "UNITED STATES POSTAGE" adorns the top, while "CENTS" appears along the bottom. This issue is notable for its strong impression and deep blue coloration, reflecting the patriotic themes of the era.

This example is unused, shows signs of hinging, and retains original gum on the reverse.

Grading Breakdown
Centering Grade: Fine/Very Fine (78)
The design is well-centered within the perforations.
The top and bottom margins are slightly narrow, but all sides are visibly clear of the design.
Perforation holes do not touch the frame lines.
The stamp fits comfortably within the F/VF (Fine/Very Fine) criteria. ? Assigned Centering Grade: 78

Soundness Evaluation
✅ No thins, creases, tears, or stains visible on front or back.
✅ Full original gum with no skips or disturbances other than hinging.
✅ All perforations are intact, including the tips.
This stamp is faultless apart from hinging, which is evaluated separately for this issue. ? Soundness Category: Faultless ? Soundness Deduction: 0 ? Adjusted Base Grade: 78

Perforations & Margins
Full, clean perforation holes on all four sides.
Slight margin narrowing at top and bottom, with generous spacing on the left and right.
Perforations are not clipped or short and appear mechanically uniform.

Eye Appeal Evaluation
Aspect Assessment
Color & Ink Deep, vibrant blue typical of the issue’s best printings.
Impression Sharp and clean; strong visual contrast.
Paper Fresh and bright. No visible toning or discoloration.
Overall Impact Striking visual presentation with no visible distractions.
This stamp qualifies for a +5 Eye Appeal Bonus based on:
Vivid color
Crisp engraving
Exceptional freshness
? Eye Appeal Adjustment: +5 points

Final Numerical Grade Calculation
Grading Component Score
Base Grade (Centering) 78
Soundness Deduction –0
Subtotal 78
Eye Appeal Bonus +5
Final Grade 83

✅ Final Summary
Category Evaluation
Scott Number 637
Condition Unused, Hinged, Original Gum
Centering 78 (Fine/Very Fine – F/VF)
Soundness Faultless
Perforations Full and intact
Eye Appeal Vivid color, crisp impression (+5)
Final Grade 83 (Very Fine – VF)

? Final Verdict
This is a Very Fine (VF) example of Scott #637 with superior eye appeal and faultless soundness. The stamp’s strong color, freshness, and engraving clarity justify a +5 bonus, boosting it from a Fine/Very Fine base to a solid VF 83. An excellent piece for collectors seeking quality examples of the Roosevelt definitive issue.

Seller Information

Seller

jamisonenterprises (533)

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