1938, 4¢ James Madison, Red Violet, United States (Scott #808)

This 1938, 4¢ James Madison stamp belongs to the Presidential Issue ("Prexies"), a definitive series issued by the United States Post Office Department beginning in 1938. This series features engraved portraits of U.S. presidents and key historical figures. The 4-cent denomination depicts James Madison, the fourth President of the United States, with the inscription “JAMES MADISON 1809–1817.” This stamp is a must-have for any serious stamp collector or history enthusiast. The 4¢ denomination and red violet color make this stamp a classic addition to any collection. The detailed portrait of James Madison and the intricate design make this stamp a beautiful and unique piece of American philatelic history. This particular stamp is in great condition, with vibrant colors and clean perforations, and is a great find for collectors looking to add a piece of 20th-century U.S. postal history to their collection. The postmark clearly shows it was postmarked in Fergus Falls, Minnesota! Don't miss the opportunity to own a piece of history with this 1938 James Madison stamp.

Technical Specifications

• Catalog Number: Scott #808

• Denomination: 4 cents (4¢)

• Date of Issue: July 1, 1938

• Series: Presidential Issue (1938–1954)

• Printing Method: Rotary Press, Engraved (Intaglio)

• Perforation: 11 × 10½

• Color: Red Violet (rose-purple shade)

• Watermark: None

• Subject: Portrait of James Madison, 4th President of the United States

Condition Analysis

Status: Used and Uncertified.

Seller’s Grading: Very Fine

Obverse:

The stamp bears a black postmark identifying the city and state in which it was postmarked. All major design elements remain identifiable.

Reverse:

No original gum is present, as expected for a used stamp. The reverse shows normal wear and there are no tears or repairs.

Centering / Margins: 

Great

The perforations do not cut into the design frame.

Other Findings:

Perforations are complete and wear is consistent with normal postal handling. This is a sheet-issued stamp, identifiable by perforations on all four sides.