U. S. Scott #886 - MNH - VF Condition

Item Specifics

Country

United States

Catalog Number

886

Stamp Type

General Issue

Condition

Mint (NH)

Centering

F/VF

Stamp Format

Single

Certificate Grade

80 (VF)

Year of Issue

1940

Item Description

Detailed Analysis of Scott #886

1. Design Description
This stamp honors Augustus Saint-Gaudens, a renowned American sculptor known for his monumental works and contributions to coin design, including the $20 "Double Eagle" gold coin. The design features a detailed engraved portrait of Saint-Gaudens encased within an ornate oval, adorned with laurel leaves. The artist's tools, such as a palette and brushes, are displayed to signify his profession. The deep purple ink provides a strong visual contrast, enhancing the intricate details of the engraving.

2. Soundness
Condition: The stamp is mint, never hinged (NH), with its original gum (OG).
Faults: There are no visible faults on the front or back. The gum is evenly applied and undisturbed, with no signs of creases, thins, or tears.
Soundness Grade: Faultless—no deductions.

3. Centering
Grade: 79 (Fine-Very Fine)
The stamp is noticeably off-center, with one or two sides closer to the perforations. However, there is sufficient white space between the design and the perforations.
This centering qualifies as Fine-Very Fine (F-VF) under the PSE guidelines.

4. Perforations
Condition: The perforations are clean, uniform, and complete. There are no short, pulled, or irregular perforations, reinforcing the faultless soundness grade.

5. Eye Appeal
Factors Considered: Eye appeal is evaluated based on color, freshness, and overall impression—not centering.
Color and Freshness:
The stamp exhibits a rich, vibrant purple hue, with no signs of fading or discoloration.
The original gum and sharp engraving contribute to the overall aesthetic appeal.
Bonus: The excellent color and freshness warrant a +2-point bonus for eye appeal.

6. Final Grade Calculation
Centering Grade: 79 (Fine-Very Fine, F-VF)
Soundness Grade: Faultless (no deductions).
Eye Appeal Bonus: +2 points for rich color and freshness.
Final Numeric Grade: 81 (Very Fine, VF)

Final Assessment
Final Grade: 81 (Very Fine, VF)

Description:
A mint, never-hinged Scott #886 with original gum, faultless soundness, and Fine-Very Fine centering. The vibrant purple color and excellent freshness enhance the visual appeal, justifying a slight bonus. This is a desirable and well-preserved collectible for its issue.

Seller Information

Seller

jamisonenterprises (328)

Registered Since

03/18/2005

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Store

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Item Location

California, United States

Ships To

Worldwide

Returns Accepted

No

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