1986, 1¢ Margaret Mitchell, Red Brown, United States (Scott #2168)

This stamp is part of the extensive "Great Americans" series, a definitive issue produced by the United States between 1980 and 1999. Known for its simple, single-color engraved designs, this series honors notable figures from various fields of American history. The 1-cent denomination features Margaret Mitchell, the renowned journalist and author of the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel Gone with the Wind. This is a genuine specimen of the 1986 issue. As a definitive stamp with a low face value, it was printed in large quantities and widely used for making up postage rates. Consequently, Scott #2168 is a common issue. Due to the cancellation and condition, this specific copy holds standard collector value (general packet/album filler) rather than premium investment value.

Technical Specifications:

• Catalog Number: Scott #2168.

• Denomination: 1 Cent (1¢).

• Release Date: June 30, 1986.

• Printing Method: Engraved (Intaglio).

• Perforation: 11.2.

• Color: Red Brown.

• Subject: Portrait of Margaret Mitchell.

Condition Analysis:

• Status: Used. The stamp bears a portion of a black circular date stamp cancellation in the upper right corner. Partial text ("...ATIO...") and the year ("19...") are visible. The cancel touches the portrait's hair and forehead but leaves the facial features largely unobscured.

• Centering: Fine to Very Fine (F-VF). The design is slightly shifted towards the top and left. The bottom margin is noticeably wider than the top, and the right margin is slightly wider than the left. The design is clear of the perforations.

• Reverse Side: The gum is absent, which is standard for a used, soaked-off copy. There is a faint shadow of the cancellation ink visible on the back, but the paper appears sound with no visible thins, creases, or tears.

• Perforations: Intact and generally well-defined on all four sides. The teeth are regular with no significant pulls or short perfs.