U. S. Scott #639 - Unused - Graded VG

Item Specifics

Country

United States

Catalog Number

639

Stamp Type

General Issue

Condition

Unused

Centering

F/VF

Stamp Format

Single

Certificate Grade

65 & Below

Year of Issue

1927

Item Description

Stamp Evaluation – Scott #639 (Unused, Hinged OG – Single Stamp)

Design Overview
Scott #639 is a 7¢ black stamp issued in 1927 as part of the Fourth Bureau Issue, showcasing a portrait of President William McKinley. The strong, formal bust of McKinley is enclosed in a crisp oval frame surrounded by ornamental detailing. The denomination appears prominently in bold black numerals in the lower corners, with “UNITED STATES POSTAGE” inscribed at the top.

This example is unused, previously hinged, and retains original gum.

Grading Breakdown
Centering Grade: Fine/Very Fine (78)
The image is visibly well-centered with white margins clear of the design on all four sides.
Margins are slightly narrow at top and right but meet F/VF standards.
? Assigned Centering Grade: 78

Soundness Evaluation
✔ No creases, thins, or tears observed
✔ Gum is intact, with no skips or bends
✘ Two shorter to short perfs less than half normal length (bottom edge)
? Soundness Category: Minor Fault
? Soundness Deduction: –20 points
? Adjusted Base Grade: 58

Perforations & Margins
Perforations are complete on most sides, with two noticeably short teeth.
The shorter perforations are visible but do not intrude on the design.
Margin spacing is slightly uneven, particularly on the right, though still clear.

Eye Appeal Evaluation
Aspect Assessment
Color & Impression Bold black ink with crisp printing
Overall Appearance Attractive face with solid contrast
Distractions Short perfs slightly reduce visual uniformity
The overall presentation remains clean, despite the minor flaws. The contrast and impression are strong.
? Eye Appeal Adjustment: 0 points

Final Numerical Grade Calculation
Grading Component Score
Base Grade (Centering) 78
Soundness Deduction –20
Subtotal 58
Eye Appeal Adjustment ±0
Final Grade 58

Final Summary
Category Evaluation
Scott Number 639
Condition Unused, Hinged OG
Centering 78 (Fine/Very Fine – F/VF)
Soundness Minor Fault (short perfs)
Perforations Full but uneven, 2 short
Eye Appeal Clean image, balanced tone
Final Grade 58 (Very Good – VG)

? Final Verdict:
This Scott #639 stamp is a solid Very Good example with attractive overall aesthetics. While centering is above average, the short perforations cause a notable deduction. The stamp still presents well and remains a worthy addition for collectors seeking this Fourth Bureau Issue in hinged condition.

Seller Information

Seller

jamisonenterprises (524)

Registered Since

03/18/2005

Feedback

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Store

Jamison Stamps & Books

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Item Location

California, United States

Ships To

Worldwide

Returns Accepted

No

Public Questions