Only the offset printings of the 2¢ Washington may have the following types. If your stamp
is rotary or flat plate, you are on the wrong page and should go here: Types of the
2¢
Rotary and Flat Plate Washington.
See also: Methods
of Printing for the Washington Franklin Stamps
You will need to link to the
identification pages by clicking on the appropriate number on either the
picture or in the chart above. The chart provides links to a
comparison of each of the Types for all eight areas. All of the
Types have a distinguishing feature except Type V. You will need to
identify Type V by what it isn't, that is if it doesn't have any of the
features of the other types it is most likely a Type V stamp. In the case of a cancellation covering
the identifying area, or if the ink is light, or you simply have a faded copy, you
will need to examine many of the areas. In particular, if you think the
stamp is a scarcer variety, you should examine all of the areas for
positive identification. A powerful magnifying glass, microscope, or a
high resolution scan will greatly aid in identifying the
type.
