Posted 30 March, 2007 6:00 PM EDT
USPS maintains that the thicker paper is with the original release of the 2897, with plate number S11111. However after almost a year of discussing this with several informed collectors, we have come to the conclusion that the thicker paper is actually the reprint, with plate number S22222. Thank You.
--TRU 03/30/07
Posted 15 July, 2006 12:00 EST
Just released the Third Addition of:
Since 2002, Julian's essay on the Flag Over Porch plate number coil stamps has been a useful visual reference tool for the coil collectors of the Flag over Porch specialty area. He has just re released a new improved Third edition, with much additional material. Included is the full explanation of the incision styles and various die cut. Also new is an up to date values list for all the stamps included in the booklet. I strongly reccommend this book for all serious minded FOP collectors out there. It is now available for $29.95, plus $3.50 for shipping. It can be ordered directly from him, or his web site. There is a link to his site on our links page, just click on the RELATED LINKS on the menu to the left.
Posted 14 December, 2005, 12:00 EST
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| Figure 1 | Figure 2 |
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| Figure 3 | Figure 4 |
Scott's 2897 Flag over Porch comes in two formats. These are with low gloss gum (Figure 1), printed with Plate Number S11111, and with shiny gum (Figure 2) reprinted with Plate Number S22222. These two varieties were considered indistinguishable in postally used condition until 2005. However, there are several noteworthy features on these stamps, identifying them into two distinct varieties. The most noticeable difference is in the clarity of the two stamps. The shiny gum variety, (Figure 4) has a much crisper image of the stars, and a smoother solid blue background of the flags ensign. In the low gloss gum variety, (Figure 3) the stars have a more hazy look to them, with the blue background having a "molted" looking effect. These two differences can very easily be distinguished with the naked eye, when placing the two stamps side by side. (See Figures one and two above). The photo on our home page is of the shiny gum variety reprint from sheet S22222.
When actually sorting these two varieties, it is best to use an eyepiece. Let's start with the low gloss variety. In the cropped picture (Figure 3) check the upper left hand star. Compare the top blue portion above the left hand point, and you will notice that the outline of this detail is quite blurry. Now check the blue triangle directly to the left of the two points, here the blue portion of the background is almost indistinguishable, and in some cases is non existent to the naked eye.
Comparing the low gloss variety with the shiny gum variety is fairly simple. Check the same upper left blue triangles, as directed above, on the cropped picture (Figure 4), and you will see how sharp and clear these two triangles are. With a little practice, these two varieties can be sorted with the naked eye. However in some instances, it will be necessary to use the eyepiece. There is also a distinct difference in the thickness* and brightness of the paper used. The shiny gum variety is the brighter and whiter of the two, with the low gloss variety having a very slight beige tint to it. Happy hunting!
*Authors note: Information from USPS states the S11111 is the thicker paper, however upon having the stamps examined by several people, it appears that the S22222 is the thicker of the two. We are currently investigating this further to verify which is which. Thank you for your patience.