Question Regarding Gum Damage On Modern Stamps (Post-1940)

Hello everyone,

I need some advice regarding the GUM on modern stamps 1940-1989.

I made a large purchase on ebay, but unfortunately, due to poor packaging by the seller, many of the stamps got stuck together. When I started separating them, I noticed that about half of the stamps now have imprints from other stamps on the back (on GUM). Sometimes these are small lines, while other times there are large impressions from other stamps.

How critical is this considered in the grading of a stamp (despite low price, but question mostly about perfect stamps)?
I have a possibility to return them.

Thank you in advance!

Most people wouldn't concern themselves with grading common, modern stamps. The imprints in the gum matter less than any loss of the image on the front of the stamp, which is likely to have happened when it's adhered to another.

In my humble opinion, modern stamps are only good for postage. You may want to consider returning

If priced right and being used as postage then use. If not return. If grading then return.

If you have to ask, then you have answered your own question that you are not satisfied with the transaction.
Return it. There are plenty of other mint postage lots available which will be undamaged.

When grading modern stamps, it is only economical if the result is a 98 or a 100. The gum disturbance described here (since it is not naturally occurring as part of the printing process) would undoubtedly drop it down to a lower grade.

I often wonder how many "offset / setoff" errors in people's collections or for sale are caused by stuck stamps. Here is one currently on ebay for about $20.

We saw here, a while ago, evidence of someone grading and slabbing common recent stamps, then trying to charge a substantial premium for them. Don't know if it proved a moneyspinner.

Thank you all very much for your responses. I've requested a return on ebay.

It seems like this is a very responsive community, and I'm glad to join you. Wishing everyone a great week!

"I often wonder how many "offset / setoff" errors in people's collections or for sale are caused by stuck stamps."

Definitely see this on ebay.