Is This A 526

its marked 526 does anyone see any reason why not

It looks like an "offset" issue, so that part is correct, but #526 is a Type IV 2c stamp--meaning the lines of the toga rope and button look very weak (a good comparison of types: http://www.stampsmarter.com/1847usa/index.htm OR http://www.theswedishtiger.com/x1917d.htm). Your stamp has solid lines in the rope and button, making it one of #527-#528B.

someone would be rich if they made a smartphone app were you scan the stamp and it gives you the correct ID

Yes and no.

I believe you have a stamp which was labeled a long time ago before the catalog numbers for the offset stamps reached their current configuration - and the original collector did not differentiate which sub-variety of 526 he had.

To explain further, at least through the Scott 1954 Specialized catalog types IV, V, VA, VI, and VII are all under 526 as sub-letters as shown here:



Sometime between 1955 and 1959, the offset issues were expanded to the major catalog numbers of 526-528B we have today. Your stamp appears to be a type VII, 528B, by the current numbering.

Ok thanks, I hate the offset stamps and I usually just toss them in with general wash/frank lots to get rid of them but I have some holes in my album to fill so I have to figure a few out.

<someone would be rich if they made a smartphone app were you scan the stamp and it gives you the correct ID>

I am sure it is coming! Alas, what would stamp collecting - and life - be without the hunt and at least some mystery?

Getting away from the thread but this is one of the reasons I collect stamps. I love the hunt!

I got good at perfs and even watermarks but my eyes can only handle so much small stuff

Type VII Scott 528B. The solid interior line in the left "2" and the three vertical rows of dots below Washington's nose are quite visible. Check 1847usa on the http://stampsmarter.com web site.

Clark

Actually the offsets are among the easiest of the W/F 2 cent stamps to identify. Unless one is very unlucky with a cancel, the characteristics are usually easy to spot.