Stamporama Discussions: Need some assistance with a couple 1 cent Washingtons

General Philatelic/Newcomer Cnr : Need some assistance with a couple 1 cent Washingtons

Author

Postings

bobhaf

15 Dec 2015
11:01:02pm

I am trying to learn to begin to id some of the more difficult stamps in my little collection and I would appreciate any assistance you can give in helping me nail down ids on these 2 stamps.

I have measured both of these stamps as perf 11 which narrows them down to either a 498 or a 525. I'll leave the possibility of a 544 or 545 off the table. How do I go from there?

I can't even begin to determine offset press vs Flat plate.
I was assuming the precanceled one was a 498 but I see that Scott says the 525 comes in a dark green as well - and they are so different in shade that I guess I assume they are different stamps.

And if you think I missed on my perf measurement, I'm open to that as well.

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michael78651

15 Dec 2015
11:18:37pm

re: Need some assistance with a couple 1 cent Washingtons

Flat plate printing is engraved. Offset is not.

It appears like the stamp on the left is offset, and the other is engraved (sharper image).

To tell the difference from the two, do the touch test.

Gently run a finger nail along the stamp. It is is offset, it will feel smooth. If it is engraved, you will feel the ridges.

bobhaf

16 Dec 2015
11:41:08pm

re: Need some assistance with a couple 1 cent Washingtons

Thank you for your help! I will try the finger nail test and see if I can feel a difference.

Author/Postings

bobhaf
15 Dec 2015
11:01:02pm

michael78651
15 Dec 2015
11:18:37pm

re: Need some assistance with a couple 1 cent Washingtons

bobhaf
16 Dec 2015
11:41:08pm

re: Need some assistance with a couple 1 cent Washingtons

Thank you for your help! I will try the finger nail test and see if I can feel a difference.