What is meant by the term “mint” (as in “mint stamp”)?
A mint stamp is a stamp in the same state as issued by the post office: unused (not cancelled), undamaged, unhinged (a stamp hinge has never been placed on the stamp), and with full original gum or adhesive (if issued with gum or adhesive). Any deviation from this description will be clearly noted in the item description. Note that the paper of very old stamps may show signs of natural aging.