1938, 19¢ Rutherford B. Hayes, Bright Violet, United States (Scott #824)

This stamp is part of the iconic Presidential Issue of 1938, commonly referred to by philatelists as the "Prexies." This definitive series was designed to replace the Fourth Bureau Issue and features portraits of the first 29 U.S. Presidents. The 19-cent denomination honors the 19th President, Rutherford B. Hayes.

This is a genuine specimen of the 1938 Presidential Series. Scott #824 was produced with a total printing quantity exceeding 106 million. Given the presence of a postal cancellation and the visible crease on the reverse, this specific copy is a standard collectible specimen rather than a high-premium rarity.

Technical Specifications:

• Catalog Number: Scott #824.

• Denomination: 19 Cents (19¢).

• Release Date: November 10, 1938.

• Printing Method: Rotary Press.

• Perforation: 11×101/2.

• Color: Bright Violet.

• Subject: Profile portrait of Rutherford B. Hayes, based on a bust by John Frazee.

Condition Analysis:

• Status: Used. The stamp bears a black circular postal cancellation that partially obscures the portrait and lettering, which is typical for post-consumed copies.

• Centering: Fine-Very Fine (F-VF). The design is well-balanced within the perforated frame, though there is a very slight shift toward the right. The margins are clear, and the perforations do not infringe upon the design.

• Reverse Side: The gum is absent, as expected for a used copy. The image of the reverse clearly shows a horizontal crease line running just below the center. This is a paper defect that impacts the technical grade and market value.

• Perforations: Generally intact across all sides. There is minor "shagginess" on the teeth, which is characteristic of stamps separated from sheets in a high-volume post office environment during that era.