Is This A #9 Type IV ?

Such a shame the top was cut the way it was...

It is a shame but very easy to find a better stamp. Based on the guide dot position and the fact that it could only be recut at top if at all, my conclusion is that it is actually a Type II, likely from Plate 2.

Actually, if the stamp had a full top margin, I would still keep looking. The general soiled appearance coupled with some scuffs warrants a pass from me.

Winston is right on as usual. Position 86R2.

This stamp demonstrates my long held opinion that attractiveness of a stamp is based significantly more on right and left margin balance than top//bottom. At first glance, this is quite attractive stamp.... but then to see top trimmed off which is the most important area in many cases to identify or plate the stamp properly. I agree it has more of a type 2 feel to it but good luck plating it and determining for sure as that may or may not be possible

Dudley... well done!

Thank you, Gentlemen... I'll be passing on this stamp, then... thanks for the valuable feedback.

This stamp is a good illustration of the overlap in color shades between plate 2 and 3, especially in 1856. Both plates were in use, and you see many of the same or similar shades from plate 3, also on plate 2, as in this stamp. This is approaching the dark prussian blue, from Nov-Dec 1856 on plate 3. There tend to be slight differences in the overall appearance of the stamp which help distinguish the plate - i.e. no scratches, less mottling on plate 2 vs plate 3, etc.