1949, 3¢ Minnesota Territorial Centennial, Blue Green, US (Scott #981)

This stamp is a commemorative issue released by the United States in 1949 to honor the 100th anniversary of the establishment of the Minnesota Territory (1849–1949). The design illustrates a pivotal era in the region's development, featuring a pioneer driving a Red River Ox Cart. These carts were essential for frontier commerce, transporting goods between the Red River settlements and St. Paul.

This specimen is a genuine example of Scott #981. With a total printing of over 99 million, it is a common issue among collectors, primarily valued for its historical significance and its place in topical collections related to American westward expansion or Minnesota history.

Technical Specifications:

• Catalog Number: Scott #981.

• Denomination: 3 Cents (3¢).

• Release Date: March 3, 1949.

• Printing Method: Rotary Press.

• Perforation: 11×1021​.

• Color: Blue Green.

• Subject: Red River Ox Cart and driver against a frontier landscape.

Condition Analysis:

• Status: Used. The stamp features a clear black ink machine cancellation consisting of horizontal parallel lines. This cancellation partially overlays the central imagery and the "Minnesota Territorial" text.

• Centering: Fine to Very Fine (F-VF). The design is well-balanced within the margins, though there is a very slight shift to the left (the right margin is marginally wider than the left). The perforations are well clear of the design frame.

• Reverse Side: As a used copy, the gum is absent. There are no signs of "thins," tears, or significant paper disturbances. The reverse shows standard signs of postal use and age.

• Perforations: Generally intact and well-defined. There is minor "shagginess" or unevenness along the top edge, which is a common characteristic of stamps separated from sheets in a post office environment during this period.