United States Scott #226 - Used

Item Specifics

Country

United States

Catalog Number

226

Stamp Type

General Issue

Condition

Used

Centering

F/VF

Stamp Format

Single

Certificate Grade

65 & Below

Year of Issue

1890

Item Description

Description of the United States Scott #226 Stamp
The United States Scott #226 stamp is a significant piece in American philatelic history, issued in 1890. This stamp is part of the Second Bureau Issue, which replaced the earlier large Bank Note issues with smaller designs featuring various important figures from American history.

Design:
Image: The stamp features a portrait of Ulysses S. Grant, the 18th President of the United States and a commanding general during the Civil War. The portrait is an engraved likeness, providing fine details and capturing Grant’s determined expression.
Color: The Scott #226 stamp is printed in a rich carmine (red) color, which enhances the visual impact of Grant’s portrait.
Size and Format:

Dimensions:
The stamp is approximately 0.87 inches by 1.06 inches (22 mm by 27 mm).
Shape: It is rectangular with perforated edges for easy separation.

Historical Context:
Issuance Date: The Scott #226 was issued in 1890, during a period of significant growth and development in the United States. The stamp reflects the nation’s effort to honor prominent figures from its recent history.
Significance: Ulysses S. Grant played a crucial role in the Union victory during the Civil War and served two terms as president, focusing on Reconstruction and civil rights. His inclusion on the stamp highlights his importance in American history.

Collectible Appeal:

Rarity:
The value and appeal of the Scott #226 stamp to collectors can vary based on its condition, centering, gum, and any unique features such as cancellations or printing errors.

Condition Impact:
Factors such as gum presence, hinging, perforation quality, and cancel marks significantly influence the stamp's collectible value. Well-preserved examples are highly sought after by collectors.

Usage:

Postal History:
The stamp was used for regular mail during a time when the postal system was expanding to accommodate the growing population and economic activity in the United States. It represents an era of technological and infrastructural advancements.

Visual and Physical Characteristics:

Engraving Detail:
The fine engraving on the stamp showcases the advanced printing techniques of the time, with intricate lines and shading that bring Grant’s portrait to life.

Perforations:
Standard perforations of the era allow for easy separation, although the condition of these perforations can affect the stamp’s grade and value.

This stamp is a valued piece for collectors who appreciate the combination of historical significance and artistic engraving. It offers a window into the late 19th century, reflecting the United States’ reverence for its leaders and the technological progress in stamp production.

Detailed Analysis of the Stamp (Scott #226)

Soundness

Front: The stamp shows significant wear and usage. The image of Daniel Webster is clear, but the bottom right corner of the stamp is torn off, and there is a noticeable heavy cancel mark.

Back: The back of the stamp shows some discoloration, a hinge remnant, and scattered small black specks. The missing bottom right corner contributes to the stamp's overall soundness issues.
Grade: Damaged due to the torn-off bottom right corner, hinge remnant, and discoloration.

Centering
The stamp is noticeably off-center with two sides significantly closer to the edge than the opposite sides. There is white space between the frameline and the perforations, although it is narrow.
Grade: Fine/Very Fine (75-79) due to noticeable off-centering but with white space between the frameline and the perforations.

Perforations
The perforations are intact except for the bottom right corner, which is torn off.
Grade: Damaged due to the missing bottom right corner.

Eye Appeal
Front: The stamp has a clear image of Daniel Webster. The heavy cancel and torn corner significantly reduce the visual appeal.
Back: The back is somewhat discolored with a hinge remnant and black specks, contributing to the overall reduced eye appeal.
Grade: Heavy cancel and slightly tired appearance (-10 points).

Final Numerical Grade
Considering the combination of centering, soundness, and eye appeal, the final numerical grade for this stamp is calculated as follows:

Centering: Fine/Very Fine (75-79)
Soundness: Damaged (large tear/missing corner), leading to Fair/Good (20-29)
Eye Appeal: Heavy cancel and slightly tired appearance (-10 points), which places it in the range of 10-19.
Final Grade Calculation:

Base Grade From Centering: Fine/Very Fine (75-79)
Adjustment for Soundness: Damaged, leading to Fair/Good (20-29)
Eye Appeal adjustment: Heavy cancel and slightly tired appearance (-10 points), resulting in the lower end of the range.
Final Numerical Grade: 19

This stamp, considering all factors, would likely receive a final grade of 19, indicating a Fair condition with significant soundness issues due to the torn-off corner, hinge remnant, discoloration, and a heavy cancel.

Seller Information

Seller

jamisonenterprises (261)

Registered Since

03/18/2005

Feedback

100%

Store

Jamison Stamps & Books

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Item Location

California, United States

Ships To

Worldwide

Item Weight

0 Lbs 1 oz

Returns Accepted

Yes

Public Questions