I've been playing with my USB magnifier and it has been a great tool for closely identifying stamps. I'm working with my US collection this week.
This looks like a type IV Scott 279B to me. It looks to match on the five points highlighted in the Scott Specialized. (Checked Wmk. and it is Double lined USPS, 191)
Triangle "C"
Lengthened Hair line
Shaded Toga Button
Anyway, I'm really enjoying getting back into my US collection. This message is more about demonstrating the capabilities of a cheap USB plugable microscope.
I like the results of that gadget. What is the typical cost range? Also What is that fancy perf gauge
thingy you are using and is it still available and what does it set you back in dollars?
Just wonderin'....
TuskenRaider
PS; Nice images by-the-way. Much better than most on here. Definitely a macro capable device!!
Thank You very much for showing us all your goodies.
The specialist gauge has been indispensable to me since I've come back to US Stamps. It is the Sonic Imagery Labs "Precision US Specialist Multi Gauge." Of particular value is the reproduction of the old Kiusalas gauge developed for US Bureau issues. It will set you back around $16 in US greenbacks.
Love the microscopes but one word of caution: make sure it is reported to work with your operating system and then check it out immediately upon receiving the product.
The specific model I am talking about is a Celestron 44302-A bought via Best Buy with free shipping about 3-4 years ago. It was supposed to work with Windows Vista but nothing I did worked, the company shipped me a replacement that also wouldn't work, several computer people also couldn't get it to work. It did work without fuss on Windows XP, 7, and 8 (just got a laptop last summer so now I can use it!). Celestron was not helpful at diagnosing the problem - they just sent me a replacement, no questions asked, no discussion at all.
A member of our stamp club bought his at a mall kiosk. Don't know the brand but it was cheap at the time and he hasn't had a bit of problem with it. Some of the newer models have better stands and better lights. They are a very fun addition to collecting.
Thank you also, for the valuable tips. If it doesn't run under your operating system,
it isn't much good.
@ Everyone;
What Sally just said reminds me, that whenever you are contemplating a software
or hardware purchase, do some research on the internet to be sure it will work on
your software/hardware platform.