Philatelic Grading Standards: A Comprehensive Overview
Welcome to our comprehensive overview of philatelic grading standards. In the world of stamp collecting, grading plays a crucial role in determining the authenticity, condition, and overall quality of stamps. Philatelists rely on these grading standards to assess the value and desirability of their treasured philatelic items.
Over the years, the focus of grading in the philatelic community has expanded beyond simply determining authenticity. Nowadays, grading takes into consideration the condition and grade of stamps, providing a more accurate assessment of their worth. The Philatelic Foundation Manual of Grading serves as a valuable resource, guiding collectors through the intricate process of evaluating stamps.
Graded certificates, issued by the Philatelic Foundation, are available for eligible items listed in the Scott Valuing Supplement. However, the Expert Committee maintains the discretion to make exceptions for certain items. With their expertise and knowledge, they ensure that only the finest stamps receive the recognition and certification they deserve.
Key Takeaways:
- Philatelic grading standards play a crucial role in assessing the value and quality of stamps.
- Grading has evolved to encompass authenticity, condition, and grade.
- The Philatelic Foundation Manual of Grading is a valuable resource for collectors.
- Graded certificates are issued for eligible items listed in the Scott Valuing Supplement.
- The Expert Committee exercises discretion in making exceptions for certain items.
Introduction to Grading
Welcome to the world of philatelic grading! In this section, we will provide you with an introduction to grading and its significance in the philatelic community.
The Philatelic Foundation, established in 1945, has been at the forefront of serving the philatelic community for over 75 years. Initially, certificates issued by the Foundation primarily focused on confirming the authenticity of stamps. However, as the market evolved and the price disparity between sound stamps and faulty stamps widened, the need for a more comprehensive grading system became evident.
Grading standards shifted to not only address authenticity but also to evaluate the condition of stamps. This involved a meticulous examination of stamps and the explicit stating of faults on grading certificates. As the market increasingly recognized the value disparity between hinged and never hinged stamps, grading became essential to accurately assess a stamp’s quality and determine its fair market value.
The Philatelic Foundation issues graded certificates that provide collectors with a trustworthy and standardized evaluation of a stamp’s grade based on its quality. By utilizing the Foundation’s grading services, collectors can confidently evaluate the philatelic treasures they possess.
To better understand the importance of grading, let’s take a closer look at the factors that determine a stamp’s grade.
Factors Affecting Grade
When it comes to grading, several factors are taken into consideration to determine a stamp’s overall grade. The following factors play a crucial role in assessing a stamp’s quality:
| Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Color | The accuracy and richness of the stamp’s color. |
| Impression | The quality and clarity of the stamp’s impression. |
| Perforations | The alignment and condition of the stamp’s perforations. |
| Creases | Presence or absence of creases on the stamp. |
| Thins | Thin spots or areas on the stamp. |
| Tears | Presence or absence of tears on the stamp. |
| Toned Spots | Discoloration or toning spots on the stamp. |
| Stains | Any noticeable stains or discoloration on the stamp. |
| Natural Paper Imperfections | Imperfections that occur naturally during paper production. |
| Perforation Disc Indentations | Indentations caused by the perforation disc during production. |
| Cancels | The presence or absence of cancellations on the stamp. |
| Guideline Markings | The clarity and presence of guideline markings. |
| Gum Condition | The quality and condition of the stamp’s gum. |
What Items Will Be Graded?
Only items listed in the Scott Valuing Supplement are eligible to be graded. This includes coil singles, pairs, and line pairs. Exceptions may be made for items such as Newspaper stamps without gum, Revenue stamps, Confederate States of America, United States Possessions, and others as decided by the Expert Committee. If unsure about eligibility, collectors can contact the Philatelic Foundation for clarification.
Here is a table summarizing the items that will be graded:
| Item | Eligibility |
|---|---|
| Coil Singles | Eligible |
| Coil Pairs | Eligible |
| Line Pairs | Eligible |
| Newspaper Stamps without gum | Eligible (Exception) |
| Revenue Stamps | Eligible (Exception) |
| Confederate States of America | Eligible (Exception) |
| United States Possessions | Eligible (Exception) |
Here is an image exemplifying the types of graded items:
What Items Will Not Be Graded?
When it comes to the grading process, it’s important to note that not all items are eligible for grading. There are certain criteria that determine whether an item will or will not be graded. Let’s take a look at the items that fall into the non-graded category:
- Items with serious faults: Stamps that have significant damage or faults such as thins, tears, creases, or stains will not be graded. These serious faults can greatly impact the value and condition of the stamp.
- Repairs: Stamps that have been repaired or altered in any way will not be graded. This includes stamps that have been reperforated, regummed, or have any other additions or modifications.
- Fakes: Counterfeit stamps or items that are not genuine will not be graded. The grading process is designed to assess the value and condition of authentic stamps.
- Altered items: Stamps that have been altered to change their appearance or characteristics will not be graded. This includes items made from imperforate Scott numbers or with drawn-in guide lines to manipulate their appearance.
- Non-coil multiples: Multiple stamps that are not in the form of a coil will not be graded. The grading process is primarily focused on individual stamps rather than multiples.
It is important for collectors to understand that grading is optional, and submitters can request non-graded certificates for items that do not achieve a minimum grade. This gives collectors the flexibility to choose whether they want their items to undergo the grading process or not.
Will Grading Be Optional or Mandatory?
When submitting items to the Philatelic Foundation for certification, collectors have the freedom to choose whether they want their items to be graded or receive a standard (non-graded) certificate. This flexibility allows submitters to decide the level of evaluation they desire for their philatelic treasures. Furthermore, submitters can even specify that an item should not be graded unless it meets a minimum grade requirement.
If an item fails to achieve the specified minimum grade, it will be issued a non-graded certificate. This ensures that collectors have complete control over the grading process and can make informed decisions based on their preferences and expectations.
By providing the choice between optional grading or a standard certificate, the Philatelic Foundation acknowledges that different collectors may have varying needs and objectives. Whether it’s to preserve the historical value of a prized stamp or to showcase its exceptional condition and rarity, the grading process is tailored to meet the requirements of individual collectors.
How Will the Certificate Fee Be Determined?
The certificate fee for graded items is based on the value listed in the most current edition of the Scott Catalogue or the Fair Market Value, whichever is higher. The exact fee for each item can be found on the application form.
How Is an Item Graded?
Item grading plays a crucial role in assessing the quality and value of philatelic collectibles. Each item undergoes a meticulous evaluation process to determine its preliminary and final grade, providing collectors with a comprehensive understanding of its condition and overall appeal.
The preliminary grade of an item is determined based on a point scale ranging from 50 (Very Good) to 98 (Superb). For perforated stamps, the centering within the perforations is closely examined, while imperforate stamps are evaluated based on their centering within the margins.
During the grading process, various factors are considered, such as blind perforations, gum bends, toning spots, tears, and other imperfections. Point deductions are made accordingly, reflecting the stamp’s condition and potential issues. Additionally, the stamp’s overall appeal, including its eye-catching design and visual appeal, is taken into account in the final grade.
The final grade is determined by the experienced Expert Committee, whose expertise and knowledge of philatelic standards ensure an accurate and consistent grading process. The committee’s assessment considers both the technical aspects and the subjective elements of the stamp, resulting in a comprehensive final grade that collectors can rely on.
Grading provides collectors with a standardized assessment of their items, enabling them to make informed decisions regarding their philatelic collection. It ensures transparency, consistency, and confidence in the market, allowing collectors to buy, sell, and trade stamps based on their verified and recognized grades.
Below is an example table displaying the preliminary grades and their corresponding descriptions:
| Preliminary Grade | Description |
|---|---|
| 50 | Very Good |
| 60 | Fine |
| 70 | Very Fine |
| 80 | Extremely Fine |
| 90 | Superb |
| 98 | Gem |
Centering Scale and Margin Size
The centering scale is an essential aspect of grading stamps and plays a significant role in determining their overall quality. This scale ranges from 50 (severely off-center) to 100 (perfectly centered). Every stamp’s position within this scale offers insights into its centering grade.
Additionally, stamps with exceptionally large margins are designated as “Jumbo.” The margin size directly impacts the centering grade, with deductions for smaller margins and bonuses for larger margins. Stamps with Jumbo margins are highly sought after by collectors due to their visual appeal and rarity.
The presence of exceptionally large margins can significantly impact the value of a stamp. Collectors value stamps with wider margins as they enhance the overall visual experience and highlight the intricate design of the stamp.
| Centering Scale | Margin Size | Stamp Designation |
|---|---|---|
| 50-59 | Smaller Margins | N/A |
| 60-69 | Standard Margins | N/A |
| 70-79 | Large Margins | N/A |
| 80-89 | Larger Margins | N/A |
| 90-94 | Extra-Large Margins | N/A |
| 95-100 | Exceptionally Large Margins | Jumbo |
Factors Affecting Grade
When assessing the grade of a stamp, several factors come into play. These factors can have a significant impact on the overall grade, either positively or negatively. Let’s explore the various elements that influence the grading process:
1. Color
The color of a stamp is an essential aspect of its overall appeal. The vibrancy, richness, and accuracy of the color can affect the grade. Stamps with faded or altered colors may receive a lower grade.
2. Impression
The quality and clarity of the impression made by the stamp’s design can influence its grade. A well-defined and precise impression indicates a stamp in better condition, while a blurry or incomplete impression may lead to a lower grade.
3. Perforations
The evenness, strength, and alignment of the perforations play a role in determining the grade. Stamps with well-centered and intact perforations are typically assigned a higher grade.
4. Creases, Thins, and Tears
Any signs of creases, thins, or tears on a stamp can significantly impact its grade. These faults are considered imperfections that detract from the overall condition and desirability of the stamp.
5. Toned Spots and Stains
Toned spots and stains on stamps can result from exposure to moisture, chemicals, or poor storage conditions. These discolorations can diminish the grade of a stamp, particularly if they affect the design or overall appearance.
6. Natural Paper Imperfections
Stamps printed on paper may exhibit natural imperfections such as fibers, specks, or rough edges. While these imperfections are inherent to the production process and generally accepted, their severity and impact on the stamp’s overall condition are taken into consideration during grading.
7. Perforation Disc Indentations
Perforation disc indentations refer to small depressions or impressions left by the perforation machinery during production. The depth and visibility of these indentations can influence the grade assigned to a stamp.
8. Cancels and Guideline Markings
Cancellation marks or guideline markings on stamps can affect their grade. While cancellation marks are expected on used stamps, their readability and impact on the overall appearance are considered. Guideline markings can also impact the grade, especially if they obscure or detract from the design.
9. Gum Condition
The condition of the gum on the back of a stamp can influence its grade. Stamps with pristine, undisturbed gum usually receive a higher grade compared to those with faults, alterations, or missing gum.
These factors are carefully evaluated by experts during the grading process. The final grade of a stamp is a culmination of these considerations, resulting in a comprehensive assessment of its quality and desirability.
Expertizing U.S. Stamps
When it comes to expertizing U.S. stamps, there are several important factors to consider. The process involves a thorough examination and evaluation to ensure the authenticity and quality of the stamps. Let’s explore the key aspects involved in expertizing U.S. stamps.
Identifying the Correct Scott Number
One of the first steps in expertizing U.S. stamps is identifying the correct Scott number. The Scott numbering system is widely used by collectors and dealers to categorize and reference stamps. By accurately determining the Scott number, experts can provide precise information about the stamp’s origin, design, and historical significance.
Determining Unused or Used
Another important aspect of expertizing U.S. stamps is determining whether a stamp is unused or used. Unused stamps refer to those that have never been affixed to a mailpiece, while used stamps have been postmarked or canceled. By assessing the usage status, experts can provide valuable insights into a stamp’s rarity and historical context.
Evaluating Gum and Hinging Status
Gum and hinging status also play a crucial role in expertizing U.S. stamps. The presence and condition of gum, the adhesive substance on the stamp’s back, can significantly affect its value and desirability among collectors. Additionally, experts evaluate the hinging status, referring to any methods used to attach the stamp to an album page. The presence or absence of hinging can provide valuable information regarding the stamp’s previous handling and preservation.
Assessing Reperforation and Other Faults
During the expertizing process, specialists carefully examine stamps for any reperforation or other faults that may have occurred after the stamp’s original issue. Reperforation refers to the act of creating new perforations to alter a stamp’s appearance. Other faults or damages, such as tears, thins, or creases, are also taken into account. By identifying these faults, experts can provide accurate descriptions and evaluations of the stamp’s condition.
Faults During Production
Expertizing U.S. stamps also involves considering faults that may have occurred during the stamp’s production process. These faults can include misprints, color variations, perforation errors, or other anomalies. By analyzing these production faults, experts can provide valuable information about the stamp’s rarity and collectability.
Expertizing U.S. stamps is an essential step for collectors to ensure the authenticity, quality, and value of their philatelic treasures. By relying on the expertise of specialists, collectors can confidently build their stamp collections with verified and certified stamps.
Conclusion
Grading standards in the philatelic community have evolved over the years to provide a comprehensive overview of a stamp’s authenticity, condition, and grade. The Philatelic Foundation serves as an expert authority, offering grading services for eligible items listed in the Scott Valuing Supplement. Whether collectors choose to have their stamps graded or not, the option is available, allowing for flexibility in the certification process.
During the grading process, factors such as centering, soundness, gum condition, and overall appeal are meticulously examined to determine the final grade of a stamp. Centering plays a crucial role, and stamps with larger margins may receive additional recognition as “Jumbo.” These grading standards help collectors understand the quality and value of their philatelic treasures.
In addition to grading, expertizing U.S. stamps is essential in ensuring the authenticity and quality of each philatelic piece. Identifying the correct Scott number, examining gum and hinging status, and evaluating any faults or alterations are vital steps in this process. By expertizing their stamps, collectors can confidently add verified pieces to their collections.
Overall, the combination of grading and expertizing provides collectors with a comprehensive overview and reliable certification of their philatelic items. Whether you’re a novice collector or an experienced philatelist, understanding the grading standards and expertizing process can greatly enhance your appreciation and enjoyment of philately.
