U. S. Scott #686 - MNH - Fine Condition

Item Specifics

Country

United States

Catalog Number

686

Stamp Type

General Issue

Condition

Mint (NH)

Centering

Fine

Stamp Format

Single

Certificate Grade

70 (Fine)

Year of Issue

1930

Item Description

Detailed Analysis of Scott #686

Design Description:
This stamp features a portrait of Warren G. Harding, the 29th President of the United States.
The central design is framed by ornate scrollwork, with Harding’s name prominently displayed beneath the portrait.
The denomination “1 1/2 Cents” is shown in the bottom corners, and the stamp is printed in a light brown ink, representative of the definitive series of the time.

Soundness:
Condition: Faultless
The stamp is never hinged (NH) and retains its original gum (OG), which is intact, evenly applied, and free of disturbances.
There are no visible structural issues, such as creases, thins, tears, or stains.
The perforations are intact and uniform, contributing positively to the structural quality of the stamp.
Soundness Grade: Faultless

Centering:
Grade: 73 (Fine)
The stamp is noticeably off-center, with one or two margins significantly closer to the perforations. The framelines are intact, and there is visible white space on all sides, though it is narrow on certain edges.
This fits within the Fine (F) category under the PSE centering guidelines.

Perforations:
The perforations are sharp, consistent, and fully intact. There are no irregularities or missing teeth, adding to the stamp’s overall integrity.

Eye Appeal:
Evaluation:
The light brown color is vibrant and evenly applied, with excellent clarity in Harding’s portrait and the surrounding frame.
The off-centering is noticeable but does not detract significantly from the overall visual appeal.
The back is clean, with no discoloration or marks that would impact its aesthetic presentation.
The stamp aligns with the Neat / Clean category for eye appeal.
Eye Appeal Grade: Neat / Clean

Final Numerical Grade:
Using the PSE Guidelines:
Soundness: Faultless
Centering: 73 (Fine)
Eye Appeal: Neat / Clean
The final grade is 73 (Fine).

Summary:
Final Grade: 73 (Fine)
Condition: Original Gum (OG), Never Hinged (NH), Faultless.
Soundness: Faultless.
Eye Appeal: Neat / Clean.
Attributes: Vibrant light brown color, sharp perforations, and well-preserved gum. The off-centering slightly limits the grade but does not detract significantly from the stamp’s quality.

This Scott #686 is a pristine example from the definitive series, showcasing Harding’s legacy. Despite its centering limitations, the faultless condition and aesthetic appeal make it a valuable addition to any U.S. definitive stamp collection.

Seller Information

Seller

jamisonenterprises (328)

Registered Since

03/18/2005

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Store

Jamison Stamps & Books

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Item Location

California, United States

Ships To

Worldwide

Returns Accepted

Yes

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