1938, 25¢ William McKinley, Deep Red Lilac, United States (Scott #829)

This stamp is part of the Presidential Issue of 1938, colloquially known 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 25-cent denomination honors the 25th President, William McKinley.

This is a genuine specimen of the 1938 Presidential Series. Scott #829 is a common issue, produced in large quantities for use on heavier mail and parcels. Due to the heavy cancellation and the rightward centering, this specific copy holds standard collector value rather than premium philatelic value.

Technical Specifications:

• Catalog Number: Scott #829.

• Denomination: 25 Cents (25¢).

• Release Date: December 2, 1938.

• Printing Method: Rotary Press.

• Perforation: 11 × 10½.

• Color: Deep Red Lilac.

• Subject: Portrait of William McKinley.

Condition Analysis:

• Status: Used. The stamp bears a heavy, black oval grid cancellation containing the text "CHICAGO ILL" and the number "588." This type of heavy cancel was typical for parcel post or registered mail at the time.

• Centering: Fine (F). The design is noticeably shifted to the right. The left margin is significantly wider than the right margin, creating an unbalanced appearance.

• Reverse Side: The gum is absent as it is a used copy. There is a faint ink transfer visible from the cancellation on the front.

• Perforations: Generally intact with no missing teeth, though the left edge shows some "fuzziness" or rough paper fibers typical of separation.