Every once in a while I notice a trimmed Scott #24 being offered as a #7 or #9. A Scott #24 (1857 1c Franklin) with it’s perforations trimmed off is worthless and only considered a space filler. Even if you have a hard time with the 1851-57 1c Franklin issues I can teach you a couple of tricks on how to spot a fake imperforate! The image below is a Scott #24 with a catalogue value of $45.00

Shown below is the same Scott #24 with the perforations trimmed off. It makes a pretty convincing #7 or # 9 which catalogue at over $130.00 each!

Shown below is the top view of an actual imperforate issue. Notice how the top frame line is complete and side ornaments are almost complete.

Shown here is the bottom of an imperforate example. Again, notice how the bottom frame line is complete.

Shown here is the top view of a Scott #24. Notice how the top frame line has a wide break and the side ornaments are incomplete.

Show below is the bottom view of a Scott #24. Notice the wide break in the bottom frame line.

The bottom line is, if you are considering purchasing a #7 or a #9 the top and bottom frame lines are broken and the side ornaments are partially cut away be very skeptical that you are probably looking at a worthless trimmed #24!

Scott #8 and 8a are scarce imperforate issues that DO show the breaks in the frame line/s. Always remember the dead giveaway to a trimmed #24 is incomplete side ornaments. If you learn how to spot a trimmed #24 it could save you from making a costly mistake!  

I spend my time and write these guides to help the philatelic community. I feel that my guides can help both buyers and sellers properly identify certain issues that I notice have been often misrepresented at online auction. Even If you personally already are familiar with the information presented in this guide please vote “yes” for helpfulness as it allows me to know that people support my effort to help the philatelic community . I would appreciate any emails with questions or comments on how to better help with any of my guides. If anyone is considering buying a stamp that is mentioned in any of my guides and have doubts about authenticity please email me and I will be glad to help Best regards, Mike