Accurate stamp descriptions have, and always will be problematic. Some dealers have a tendency to over grade a stamp when selling, and under grade it when buying. Private sellers are not much different in this respect. My object is to be as honest as my ability allows, though some buyers will no doubt take issue with some descriptions. For this reason, I have provided, or have offered to provide scans of any stamp requested. This way you can see the material before you commit to purchase.
Definition of Terms
Standard stamp descriptions are used throughout these pages; listed briefly here:
Centering:
S - Superb. (I do not use this designation; it's too much like cutting hairs.)
XF - Extra Fine. Nearly perfect to perfect centering of stamp design.
VF - Very Fine. Stamp design is slightly off-center.
F - Fine. Stamp design is noticably off-center, but perfs are clear of design.
A - Average. Perforations/margins cut into stamp design on one or more edges.
Gum Condition:
** - Never hinged. Stamp has never had a mounting hinge attached.
* - Previously hinged. Gum shows evidence of a hinge mark.
HR - Hinge remnant. A portion of a hinge remains on stamp.
RG - Stamp may have been regummed
PG - Partial gum. Gum is substantially absent.
NG - No gum. Gum is completely absent.
(Stamps originally issued without gum are so identified.)
Other Terms and Abbreviations:
Cr - Crease
CTO - Canceled to order
Hg - Hinge
Iss - Issued
Op - Overprint
Pf - Perforation
SE - Straight edge
Selv - Selvage
Sh - Short
DLWM - Double line watermark
SLWM - Single line watermark
WM - Watermark
Images:
My aim is provide scans for any items you wish to purchase. High resolution graphics require a large amount of data space, which is always at a premium on Internet servers. If you would like to see an image for any item that is not illustrated, please email me with your request and I will post a scan to the page as soon as possible. Some email readers/servers do not handle large graphics files very well, if at all, so I will email a scan only when there is a particular reason to do so.
Your questions and/or comments regarding the sale of these stamps are welcome. Please send me an email. I would be happy to hear from you. Thanks.
Ron Tamburello
Member of the American Philatelic Society - APS #110064
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Stamp Collection