Grading Stamps - Part I

Grading stamps is subjective, and even seasoned experts may disagree on some fine points at times. But always keep in mind that the overall quality of a stamp is the most important factor when grading stamps. For example, Extra Fine copies of early stamps that have large margins and no faults command much higher prices than what you will see in a stamp catalogue. On the other hand, attractive Very Fine stamps with thins or corner creases sell for lower prices. For example, The Stamp People's online stamp shop features Fine and Very Fine stamps, but also has a "Bargain Stamps and Markdowns" category that offers assortment of stamps that have been severely reduced in price for this reason.

Some people use five different criteria when they are grading stamps: gum (for mint stamps), color, paper, centering and cancellation (for used stamps). For now, we'll talk about what makes a "Very Fine" stamp.

Very Fine Stamp:

Gum: Early stamps may have part of their original gum or even no gum at all. Later stamps should have complete undisturbed gum with no marks other than hinging if appropriate.

Color: The color of a stamp must appear unfaded - fresh and bright.

Paper: The paper of the stamp must be free of defects (no missing perfs, no thins, no creases).

Centering: The design of the stamp must be well-centered with distinct margins on all four sides - the design must not extend into the stamp's perforations.

Cancellation: A light, clear, well-centered cancellation (although some collectors prefer a light corner cancel which leaves the design of the stamp unobscured). A CDS cancellation (circular datestamp cancellation) is not required for a stamp to be considered Verf Fine, but is preferred by many stamp collectors.


In our next post we'll describe Fine stamps.