1940, 3¢ Ralph Waldo Emerson, Bright Red Violet, United States (Scott #861)

This stamp is part of the Famous Americans Series of 1940, specifically within the "Authors" category. This iconic 35-stamp series was issued to honor prominent figures in American culture, including writers, scientists, and artists. The 3-cent denomination honors Ralph Waldo Emerson, the influential American essayist, lecturer, and philosopher.

This is a genuine specimen of the 1940 Famous Americans issue. Scott #861 is a common definitive, with a total printing quantity exceeding 52 million. Given the heavy cancellation and the leftward centering, this specific copy holds historical interest and standard collector value rather than a premium market valuation.

Technical Specifications:

• Catalog Number: Scott #861.

• Denomination: 3 Cents (3¢).

• Release Date: February 5, 1940.

• Printing Method: Flat Plate.

• Perforation: 11×11.

• Color: Bright Red Violet.

• Subject: Portrait of Ralph Waldo Emerson, based on a contemporary photograph.

Condition Analysis:

• Status: Used. The stamp bears a heavy black ink cancellation (likely a machine or "dumb" cancel) that significantly obscures the left side of the portrait and the text "UNITED STATES POSTAGE."

• Centering: Fine (F). The design is noticeably shifted to the left. The right margin is significantly wider than the left. While the perforations do not cut into the design frame, the margins are clearly unbalanced.

• Reverse Side: The gum is absent as it is a used copy. There are minor signs of paper aging and adhesive residue from previous mounting/affixing, but no obvious thins or tears are visible.

• Perforations: Generally intact; however, there is some minor wear and slightly "shaggy" teeth on the left edge, typical of stamps separated from sheets in a post office environment.