1950, 3¢ Samuel Gompers, Bright Red Violet, United States (Scott #988)

This stamp was issued to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Samuel Gompers's birth, a pivotal American labor union leader and the first president of the American Federation of Labor (AFL). The design was based on a photograph provided by the AFL and commemorates Gompers' influence on the labor movement. The stamp was part of the 1950 commemorative series and was printed in a large quantity, making it a staple of mid-century U.S. philately.

This is a genuine specimen of the 1950 Samuel Gompers issue. Scott #988 is a common commemorative issue, with a total printing quantity of approximately 115 million. Due to the heavy slogan cancellation and the off-center alignment, this specific copy holds standard collector value and serves as an excellent historical representative of the period.

Technical Specifications:

• Catalog Number: Scott #988.

• Denomination: 3 Cents (3¢).

• Release Date: January 27, 1950.

• Printing Method: Rotary Press.

• Perforation: 11×10½.

• Color: Bright Red Violet.

• Subject: Portrait of Samuel Gompers, flanked by Corinthian columns and laurel leaves.

Condition Analysis:

• Status: Used. The stamp bears a heavy black ink machine cancellation. The slogan "THE EASY WAY / BUY BONDS ON / PAYROLL SAVINGS" is partially visible, specifically the fragments "ASY WA" and "ONDS ON." The cancel significantly overlaps the central portrait of Gompers.

• Centering: Fine (F). The design is noticeably shifted toward the top and slightly to the right. The left and bottom margins are visibly wider than the right and top margins. While the perforations do not intersect the design frame, the balance is poor.

• Reverse Side: The gum is absent, which is standard for a used copy. There is minor evidence of paper toning and superficial residue from previous hinging or envelope attachment, but no structural thins or tears are visible.

• Perforations: Generally intact; however, there is some minor wear and a "shaggy" appearance on the left and bottom edges, characteristic of stamps separated from sheets by hand.