Please Help Identify Swiss Brown 30c A20 (Large Numerals) - Perf 12 Not Found

This looks like perf of 12 on both edges but I don't see that perf option listed. It is in terrible condition - really really bad condition - but I was holding out hope for a 95b.

Try not to laugh...

Sorry, but yes I did laugh

Kinda cute, that's the way I collect, if I don't have the stamp,
damage is not considered at all, who cares? it's my collection.

On the guaging cynosure, I personally don't like your approach,
it is too prone for mistakes.
I like the angled line guaging, where one moves the stamp up and down
until the perf tips (exactly) meet the lines.
Good luck.

If you are using a catalog look for the "Standing Helvetia" series


Peter

Sorry to say, you're measuring wrong. Turn the stamp 180 degrees and line up the centers of the perf holes with the centers of the semicircles on the gauge. All hole centers must line up exactly over the length of the bar on the gauge, not just "close enough". It is best to line up using the first hole on the gauge rather than from somewhere in the center and fiddling to fit.

Might I suggest getting a Scott/Linn's multi-gauge instead? The metal gauge fits nicely in a pocket, but it's too easy to get a wrong measurement with it. The 1882-1903 first Standing Helvetia issue isn't what Scott (probably) still says, it is perf 13-3/4 in both directions. This will be shown absolutely on the Scott/Linn's gauge, but you will probably be guessing, and guessing wrong using that metal gauge.

Now, don't you think the crease will throw off perf measurement? That said, I will boldly/baldly guess this actually measures 11-1/2 x 12. That would make it not Scott 95b, but 95a. Still, let's see what you get in remeasuring.

Thank you. I tried it the other way (180 degree turn) and here is what it looks like now. It does make a difference. Unfortunately this is the only guage I have at the moment. I ordered a mount guage earlier today and I think there is a perf guage on the other side of it. Should get that this week.

I looked at a Mystic column and they showed the outer part of my current guage being used like I initially did. That seems error prone to me now.

Looks like a 95a (11.5 X 12). I appreciate the help. It is easy to check perfect stamps! It sure gets harder with ones like this (and using the wrong technique)...

this...is...the...equivalent...of...a...philatelic....slasher....film...

All is not lost, there is a way to marry the two

This relies on your application and determination.
as you say measuring a perfect stamp is easy.

So, get a modern perfect stamp and be prepared to destroy it
Find one that measure 11.5 (easy) turn it over and mark in ink 11.5
with an arrow to that side.

There you have a "Template"
Keep it in a stamp mount in a little box of similar perf sizes

Matching up perfs with as bad as your stamp, then is easy to determine
in seconds.

Only works on perfect sizes per 12, perf 11.5 etc,
but it does immediately point to a perf size that is out of the ordinary.

Build a set of perf "templates"

This is perfectly subject to "pin perfed stamps of say Turkey India etc,
where stamps sides can show only a few perf tips
These "templates" work wonders !

Also, if you are looking for a scarce Perf guaging, amongst a plethora of same designed stamps (Brazil, Argentina, Australia) these "templates" are a Godsend

Thanks Rod! That is a very good idea and a huge help. I'll try that out.

This forum has been very helpful to me. I've only been on for about a week and have learned an enormous amount already.

Thanks for answering so many of my questions.

Brian