John Adams Philately Appraisal

2 Cents John Adams US Postage Stamp

This item is a 2-cent United States postage stamp, featuring a profile portrait of John Adams, the second president of the United States. The stamp is predominantly a rich reddish-pink or magenta color. It has a rectangular shape with perforated edges, typical of postage stamps. The portrait of John Adams is rendered in a lighter shade, likely white or a very pale pink, creating a clear contrast against the darker background. Above the portrait, the text "UNITED STATES POSTAGE" is printed in white capital letters. Below the portrait, the name "JOHN ADAMS" is visible in smaller white capital letters. The denomination "2 CENTS 2" is prominently displayed at the bottom of the stamp, with '2' on the left and right corners, and 'CENTS' spelled out in the center. The stamp shows evidence of being used, indicated by clear black cancellation lines that run horizontally and vertically across the face of the stamp, partially obscuring the portrait and text. There is also a partial letter 'K' visible in black cancellation ink on the left side of the stamp. The perforations appear to be intact, though some minor fraying might be present along the edges due to handling or removal from a sheet. The paper consistency appears to be standard stamp paper. The overall condition suggests that the stamp has been circulated and collected, showing the expected wear and tear of a used postal artifact. This stamp likely dates from the 1900s, possibly from the early to mid-20th century, given the design and the style of the portrait.