How Much Perf Damage Is OK On Large Queens?

I've been watching ebay and bidStart for used Large Queen offerings and I haven't yet seen a single stamp without some degree of damage to the perfs. Most of these seem perfectly sound except for the perfs.

My question for those who are better versed in the LQs is, "Is this what one should expect in this market?"

Please post scans if you have examples of your own in better shape along with advice on best sources and what I should expect to pay. I checked 2016 Scott CVs and Used values range from $40 - $225.

Terry

I have been doing the same thing (watching for decent LQ) and I agree that they are few.

A LQ with good centring and light cancel (especially no missing perfs) will command a premium in any auction.

Trying to find one on ebay or Bidstart is next to impossible. If you do find one, the price will usually reflect the condition (if not, grab it)

There are tons of faulty LQ (as you mention) and you get what you pay for. It depends on what condition is acceptable to you.

I have found that the most cost effective way to buy LQ is to buy them in a lot (always check condition of course first).

Hope that helps.

tlmcca...You can pick up stamps with good perfs. and not pay through the nose..Here is one of mine with descent perfs, and didn't pay an arm and a leg for it.

Robert

Robert: Very nice stamp! May I ask where you acquired it?

Terry

Nice stamp wert.

It also illustrates my point. You usually get what you pay for. The perfs are all sound except for the one in the lower left corner and a couple of short ones on the right side (near the top). Also, it is centred high. There is also foxing/stains in the lower perfs. Make sure you be careful that doesn't spread.

I wouldn't expect to pay a lot for a 3c LQ in that condition. However, it is a nice stamp overall compared to many.

Is there also a plate flaw/line on the left "3"?

Wert, that is a fine specimen .

Sent you an email.

tlmcca...Here is another one with descent perforations..Look around, they are out there...Not centered but good perfs.

EasyOne...Did not get an email.

Robert

wert, do you know the shade on that 15c? It seems very dark. Nice stamp once again.

PS: Hope I didn't sound too critical of your 3c, I was just trying to point out things that affect value that are often missed.

I recommend a hot/boiling bath for your 3c (~ 2 minutes - face up). It will kill anything that may spread, and also brighten it up a bit. Did that for a lot of SQ I received and it did wonders.

I agree! These issues are especially hard to find well-centered. If you take a look at the Brigham large queen collection that recently went to auction, highly graded (for centering) LQs were almost non-existent!

You may have to compromise in the name of saving money if you want to fill your LQ collection. Finding 2 out of 3 qualities (Centering, perfs, light cancellation) is hard enough to find. All 3 will be tough to do without paying high premiums!

Brian

Wert, I sent it thru SCF to address indicated in your profile. Could you try sending me one please?

finding #27 in vf condition is VERY VERY HARD....

sending pictures of #27 VF could be very interesting

Perf 11.5x12 #21


#21c, iii, iv


#22 thin paper



#23


#24



Plate flaw Under Postage (broken circle) unlisted


#25a Watermarked


Thin paper XF


#26


#27 '5' Hamilton XF


#28


#28iii missing right corner


#29 JUMBO

#26iv

tlmcca...Even MINT stamps like this sometimes dont have the best perforations.

Robert

Robert: Absolutely. I expect when I get to be close to 150 years old I'll show some wear and tear too.

Terry