Opinions Solicited For R33A

Would the experts like to weigh in on any concerns as to the genuineness of this R33a?

Couldn't really ask for a nicer copy than this (assuming no faults of course).

Jim

The one thing you might have to consider is the paper. If it is stamp paper, you're okay. This issue has India paper (P3) proofs, so if it is very thin, it might be a proof being passed off as a stamp.

Also, it is being described as mint but I believe I see traces of a blue cancel in the upper right and possibly the upper left.
It's being auctioned, and I'm thinking of bidding, so I can always ask for an extension. Just wanted verification if I'm wasting my time.

I doubt if it's a proof based on this scan.

I found the auction listing for this item. I believe the stamp to be genuine, but beware of the hype in the writeup:




Without gum it is not mint. It is merely uncanceled. Revenues are not treated the same way as front-of-book material.

For 1st-3rd issue revenues to be considered "mint" or "unused" they must have gum. The company is correct in that "mint first issues command a premium", but this isn't one.

Still, for those that collect 1st issue revenues free of heavy, marring, or distracting cancels, this would be a nice example.