Stamp Of Controversy: 1917 Unwatermarked 30c Orange Perf 10

Bringing it back to the topic, I would love to see control tests done by the VSC. However, in my humble opinion, even if it proves accurate (which I will remain skeptical until I see it) I don't feel like the VSC would invalidate these as distinct stamps.

Watermarks are supposed to be visible to the naked eye, or at least with magnification. If these are identifiable only through digital aids in an infrared spectrum, then it is a major departure from the typical watermarks and likely suggests an error during the printing or paper production process. In my eyes, that would still be unique and therefore considered for collecting.

However, due the timing of the plates involved (I.e. during the crossover to unwatermarked paper), I find it highly unlikely that such an error that mimics unwatermarked paper at just that time much more unlikely than the possibility that real unwatermarked paper was used