1940, 2¢ Mark Hopkins, Rose Carmine, United States (Scott #870)

1940, 2¢ Mark Hopkins, Rose Carmine, United States (Scott #870)

This stamp is part of the Famous Americans Series of 1940, specifically belonging to the "Educators" group. This expansive commemorative series was issued by the Post Office Department to honor prominent figures in American culture, including authors, poets, educators, and scientists. The 2-cent denomination honors Mark Hopkins, a famed educator and the former president of Williams College.

This is a genuine specimen of the 1940 Famous Americans Series. Scott #870 is a relatively common issue, with a total printing quantity of approximately 52 million. Given the standard wavy-line cancellation and the rightward-leaning centering, this specific copy holds standard collector value for used specimens rather than premium philatelic value.

Technical Specifications

• Catalog Number: Scott #870.

• Denomination: 2 Cents (2¢).

• Release Date: March 14, 1940.

• Printing Method: Rotary Press.

• Perforation: 10½×11.

• Color: Rose Carmine.

• Subject: Portrait of Mark Hopkins.

Condition Analysis

• Status: Used. The stamp features a black ink wavy-line machine cancellation, common for the 1940s, which crosses the central portrait but leaves the "Mark Hopkins" nameplate clearly legible.

• Centering: Fine (F). The design is noticeably shifted to the right. The left margin is significantly wider than the right, where the perforations are quite close to the design frame.

• Reverse Side: The gum is absent as this is a used copy. The paper shows natural age-related toning, though no significant thins, tears, or creases are visible.

• Perforations: Generally intact across all sides. There is minor "shagginess" or typical wear on the bottom edge, which is standard for rotary press stamps of this era when separated at the post office.