Scott # 279B Perf Question

I have a U.S. 2 cent Washington 279B, possibly a "c" version based on the color, issued in 1899. According to the catalogue, this stamp should be Perf 12. The stamp that I have, Type IV, is perf 11.5x12. I gauged it 3 times under a magnifier. Was this stamp ever officially issued with perf 11.5 x 12?
Thanks
mainelystamps

Based on your scan, I would say that your stamp is not a Scott 279Bc. There are more shades to this stamp than noted in the Scott US Specialized Catalogue. As to the perforations, the numbers listed in the Scott Catalogue are approximations. They round up or down to the closest number. I.E. perforation 11.8 becomes 12 and 11.7 becomes 11.5. The Ideal gauge for a stamp on piece or cover is the "Sonic Imagery Labs Precision U. S. Specialty Multi-Gauge. as it has a reproduction of the Kiusalas gauge and the Instanta type gauge for perforations 8 through 16, Additionally, your stamp was used a touch early for 279Bc (EKU 7/16/1899) - not impossible, but contributing to the possibility that it is not a Scott 279Bc. Below is a scan of a normal Scott 279B (left) next to a Scott 279Bc.

wtcrowe
In regards to my perforation question for what may be a "279Bc", I appreciate your feedback response very much. Thanks for the recommendation for the Sonic Imagery Labs Precision U. S. Specialty Multi-Gauge. I just ordered one. I am currently testing the stamp for watermark 191. I'll let you know the results. Based on the cancellation date on the cover (July 1899), and Scott's Specialty catalogue issue date for a red 279B (May 1899), or the rose carmine 279Bc (Mar 1899), if the stamp does have the WMK 191, I would think there is a strong possibility that this stamp could be either 279B or 279Bc..
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Question for wtcrowe
I'm just curious. Where did you find the EKU (July 16, 1899) for a 279Bc? My 2015 Scott Specialized catalogue indicates the issue date as Mar 1899. As you can see from my posted image of the envelope cut, the stamp was cancelled on Jul 13, 1899. However, even though my stamp looks closer to a "red" 279B, than a "rose carmine" 279Bc, perhaps it is a "bright carmine rose" 279Bc. I guess only a professional certification can resolve the mystery.

mainly,
FYI, you already received a professional opinion. Bill Crowe (wtcrowe above) is a renowned expert who certifies stamps and is a Member A.I.E.P. - (International Association of Philatelic Experts) who specializes in US material.

The only reason to submit it for a cert is if you think seeing it in person will make a big difference. If so, I suggest you submit it him.
Don