1947, 3¢ U.S. Postage Stamp Centenary, Deep Blue, United States (Scott #947)

The submitted stamp belongs to the commemorative issue released by the U.S. Post Office Department in 1947 to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the first federal United States postage stamps (1847–1947). The design juxtaposes the portraits of George Washington and Benjamin Franklin (reproduced from the original 1847 issues) with the evolution of mail transportation, featuring a Pony Express rider, an early steam locomotive, a modern diesel train, a steamship, and a four-engine transport plane. The stamp’s printing coincides with the Centenary International Philatelic Exhibition (CIPEX) held in New York City.

Technical Specifications

• Catalog Number: Scott #947.

• Denomination: 3 cents (3¢).

• Date of Issue: May 17, 1947.

• Printing Method: Rotary Press.

• Perforation: 11 x 10½.

• Color: Deep Blue.

• Mintage: 127,104,300.

• Subject: 100th Anniversary of U.S. Postage Stamps.

Condition Analysis

Status:

Used and Uncertified.

Sellers Grading:

Very Fine

Obverse:

The design is clear, and the ink remains vibrant. A black machine postmark is present but does not obscure the central portraits.

Reverse:

The paper appears sound with no visible thinning or heavy staining.

Centering / Margins:

Great! The perforations are clear of the design frame.

Postmark:

Moderate. A black machine postmark is present, dated "MAY 19 1947," only two days after the official first day of issue!

Other Findings:

No visible tears, creases, or missing perforations. The paper's integrity appears well-preserved.