Types of the 2¢ Washington
Type II
Also See: Quick and dirty guide to the Types of the 2¢ Offset Washington
1. Left Ribbon
One line at the end of the left ribbon. This feature is the one that most U.S. collectors examine first to separate the Type III stamps. If there is one line of shading it can not be a Type III. Conversely, if it has 2 lines of shading, it must be a Type III.
2. Right Ribbon
One line of shading in the last fold of the right ribbon.
3. Toga Rope
The line at the top of the toga rope is well defined and sharp. The lines of the rope are consistent and do not seem to change in width from the toga rope into the toga itself. This is a defining feature of the Type Ia and II stamps.
4. Toga Button
The lines in the toga button are well defined and sharp. This is a defining feature of the Type II stamp.
5. Middle of Right Ribbon
The line to the immediate right of the fold in the ribbon appears to be composed of three dashes. This is never found on the Type I or Ia stamp.
6. Line Between Cheek & Sideburn
At least 4, and often 5 of the horizontal lines to the immediate left of the sideburn are joined.. This is never found on the Type I or Ia stamp.
7. Line Under Ear
The white line under the ear is not as pronounced as in the Type I stamp. This is actually a break in the horizontally printed lines below the ear.
8. Shape of Mouth
The line of the mouth is straight across and may even curve upward slightly in the corner.
9. Locks of Hair
The bottom two locks of hair extend to or nearly to the vertical lock of hair just to the right. This is another defining feature of Type II stamps.
10. Top Right Laurel Berry
The top right laurel berry is an indistinct blob.
