238 - Question About Condition

Hi! I am trying to learn as much as possible about my husband's grandfather's collection. While making an inventory, I noticed this stamp has the lower left corner folded up. Does this drastically reduce the value of the stamp?

Thanks for your help!

Hi txblueeyes. I would gently fold the corner back down. That will leave a small crease, which will probably effect value slightly, but not much. You stamp is off centre and looks to have a stain, which will also bring value down.
On the other hand it appears to be unused (does it have gum on the back, and has it been hinged?)
The 15c Columbian is a reasonably high value stamp (high being relative) My 2003 Scott's puts it at $240 (mint) and $65 (used). So still a lovely sample.
And...welcome. Looks like you've got quite an enjoyable job ahead of you.

Thanks jamesw! I haven't touched the stamps yet, as I do not have any tools to do so. I'm attending my first Philatelic Society meeting this week. I'm looking forward to learning more!

Hi. It looks like there is a tear between the folded flap and the perforations. The flap would be defined as a crease. There may be another tear under the letter G in the word "announcing". These aspects of the stamp will have an effect on its estimated retail value. It is unlikely to bring more then 5% of catalog value.

actually it looks used to me. that "circle" "stain" looks like a partial CDS

I agree with SV. I am inclined to think it is most likely a light cancel mark.

Hmm. I'm not convinced. I still a brown stain spread over the lower right corner and moving up to the left, concentrating and becoming darker going up the stairs toward their majesties, like a carpet. I don't see any other marks above that where a CDS might be.
But the, these eyes don't see like they used to.

Too small of a scan for a confirmation, can you perhaps post a larger image ?