Help ID Franklin Perf #5

The next four are perf'd. I think this is the most beautiful of the bunch. Is it better to take out the little perf circles on the edge or leave them as original. Personally I think this particular stamp would look far better if the perforations were all showing.

First, nice carrier cancel. The right hand ornaments are more complete but still lack the end details for a type Va. I believe it is a Type V Scott 24. I believe it is a relief F (transfer roll #4) from row 6 on plates 5, 7, 8, 9 or 10.

Should I remove the excess perforation remnants or leave them?

I would leave them. They in no wat detract from the appearance or value but removal could nub the perfs. Additionally, this stamp is right centered and the chards add to the right to give it a more balanced appearance.

Hey Russ, here is what the stamp would look like if I removed the shards. I agree it is slightly right centered but leaving them makes it look slightly left centered and just uglier. But to my unprofessional eye, removing them makes the stamp look sharper and far more appealing than the compensation for centering.



Anyone else have an opinion? I probably won't alter the original condition of the stamp, since that breaks the main rule of antiques and collectibles but if I keep it for myself or grade it, will it grade higher with or without the shards.