Finland Engraved Vs Lithograph

Are there easily identifiably characteristics to help identify Finland, Scott #557 engraved and Scott #557a Lithograph stamps?

You need a magnifier. An engraved stamp has the ink raised above the paper surface and the inked parts have sharper edges than litho stamps.

Agree with hy-brasil. But also, if you tilt the lithographed stamp before a lamp, you will see that it is completely glossy. The engraved stamp will have a dull, or matte surface. Also the lithograph stamp will feel completely smooth to the touch, whereas the engraved stamp will have a "tooth" to the surface.

The lithographed (booklet) stamps were printed in far fewer numbers than the engraved sheet variety.

HungaryForStamps (StampoRama forum)

18 Jun 2014
04:42:05pm
re: How to Test for a stamp that is Lithography
I also use the aluminum foil method just to be certain in distinguishing lithographed from engraved stamps. Put thin aluminum foil completely over the stamp. While holding the stamp and foil firmly in place, rub the foil directly over the stamp gently with a soft pencil eraser, and then examine the top of the foil for results. If you see lines from the stamp design, its engraved, otherwise litho.

The 'foil' method was first mentioned in this forum in 2011 by 'xquercus'

There is also a good thread here
https://goscf.com/t/38863

Don