Collectable Postal Appraisal

Thomas Jefferson 1-Cent US Postal Card Cut Square

This item is a 'cut square' segment featuring a 1-cent Thomas Jefferson green indicative stamp, originally printed directly onto a United States Postal Card. This specific design and denomination were widely produced in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, notably around the 1880s to early 1900s. The central image features a profile portrait of Thomas Jefferson facing left, enclosed within an oval frame inscribed with 'U.S. POSTAL CARD' at the top and 'ONE CENT' along the bottom ribbon. The numeral '1' appears in small medallions on both the left and right corners. The printing is in a distinct green ink on a cream-colored, heavyweight cardstock. Regarding condition, this item has been roughly hand-cut from its original postal card, resulting in irregular, jagged edges rather than straight, clean lines. This significantly impacts its value as a philatelic specimen, as 'full cards' or 'neatly cut squares' are preferred by collectors. There is a visible crease or fold mark running vertically near the right edge of the image. The paper shows natural toning and slight foxing consistent with age. There is no visible postmark, suggesting this was cut from an unused card. The engraving remains sharp, showing the intricate lines of Jefferson's hair and the decorative scrollwork typical of the Bureau of Engraving and Printing's era-specific craftsmanship.