45 Cent Stamp Appraisal

USA 45-cent Pumpkinseed Sunfish postage stamp

This item is a United States postage stamp, denominated with a face value of 45 cents, depicting a 'Pumpkinseed Sunfish'. The stamp is rectangular with a white background and features a central illustration of a vibrant, multicolored fish, most likely a Pumpkinseed Sunfish, swimming amidst green aquatic plants. The fish displays a distinctive coloration, with a greenish-blue back, orange-red belly, and speckles of yellow and red along its sides. The design includes 'USA' and '45' printed in black at the top right corner. Below the fish, its common name 'Pumpkinseed Sunfish' is printed in a smaller, dark font. The stamp exhibits classic perforations around all four edges, indicating it was intended to be torn from a sheet. The visible condition appears good, with no obvious major tears, creases, or significant damage, though some slight discoloration or corner wear cannot be fully assessed from the image alone. The perforations seem intact. This stamp belongs to a series often produced by postal services to highlight natural history, wildlife, or specific species. Given the 45-cent denomination, it likely dates from a period when this was a standard domestic first-class postage rate, which in the USA would place its issuance around the late 2000s to early 2010s (specifically, the 45-cent rate was effective from January 22, 2012, to January 26, 2013). Its design is typical of modern commemorative or definitive stamps, showcasing clear printing and detailed artwork.