U. S. Scott #871 - MNH - F/VF Conditions

Item Specifics

Country

United States

Catalog Number

871

Stamp Type

General Issue

Condition

Mint (NH)

Centering

F/VF

Stamp Format

Single

Certificate Grade

75 (F/VF)

Year of Issue

1940

Item Description

Detailed Analysis of Scott #871

1. Design Description
This stamp commemorates Charles W. Eliot, a distinguished American educator and long-serving president of Harvard University. The design features a finely engraved profile portrait of Eliot in a circular frame. Decorative elements symbolizing education and learning surround the portrait. The denomination "3 Cents" is displayed symmetrically on both sides at the bottom. The bright purple ink enhances the engraving, creating a bold and visually appealing design.

2. Soundness
Condition: The stamp is mint, never hinged (NH), and retains its original gum (OG).
Faults: There is evidence of very minor toning on the back of the stamp. This minor fault does not significantly detract from the stamp’s overall appearance or value.
Soundness Grade Deduction: -5 points for very minor toning.

3. Centering
Grade: 79 (Fine-Very Fine)
The stamp is noticeably off-center, with one or two sides closer to the perforations. However, the framelines are well clear of the perforations, and all margins remain full.
This centering aligns with Fine-Very Fine (F-VF) under the PSE guidelines.

4. Perforations
Condition: The perforations are clean, evenly spaced, and complete. There are no short, pulled, or irregular perforations visible, supporting the soundness assessment.

5. Eye Appeal
Factors Considered: Eye appeal evaluates the stamp’s color, freshness, and overall visual impact—not centering.
Color and Freshness:
The stamp features vibrant purple ink with no fading or discoloration on the front.
Despite the toning on the back, the front of the stamp presents well visually.
Bonus: The strong color and front-facing appeal justify a +1-point bonus for eye appeal.

6. Final Grade Calculation
Centering Grade: 79 (Fine-Very Fine, F-VF)
Soundness Deduction: -5 points for very minor toning.
Eye Appeal Bonus: +1 point for vibrant color and overall visual appeal.
Final Numeric Grade: 75 (Fine-Very Fine, F-VF)

Final Assessment
Final Grade: 75 (Fine-Very Fine, F-VF)

Description:
A mint, never-hinged Scott #871 with original gum, Fine-Very Fine centering, and a very minor fault (toning on the back). The stamp’s vibrant purple color and strong front-facing presentation enhance its overall appeal. Despite the minor toning, this remains a collectible example in solid condition for its issue.

Seller Information

Seller

jamisonenterprises (328)

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

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