Panama Canal Stamp Appraisal

U.S. Postage 25th Anniversary Panama Canal Stamp

This item is a vintage United States postage stamp commemorating the 25th anniversary of the Panama Canal. The stamp features a rectangular design with a predominant purple-brown color scheme. At the top border, the words 'U.S. POSTAGE' are clearly legible. The stamp depicts two prominent figures in framed portraits: on the left, an image labeled 'ROOSEVELT' (likely Theodore Roosevelt, instrumental in the Panama Canal's construction), and on the right, an image labeled 'GOETHALS' (likely George Washington Goethals, the chief engineer of the Panama Canal). Between these two portraits, a central illustration shows a ship navigating through the locks of the Panama Canal. The denomination '3' is visible in both lower corners, flanked by the words 'THREE CENTS' centrally positioned below the main illustration. Further below, the inscription '25TH ANNIVERSARY PANAMA CANAL' is present. The stamp has perforated edges, indicating it is a standard issue postage stamp. It appears to be used, as evidenced by a dark, possibly greenish-black cancellation mark extending diagonally across the central image and partially obscuring the 'ROOSEVELT' portrait. The cancellation mark suggests the date and location or specific post office through which it was processed, though these details are not clearly discernible in the image. Although the precise age is not given, the '25th Anniversary Panama Canal' inscription suggests a release date around 1939, as the canal officially opened in 1914. The paper exhibits some minor discoloration or patina consistent with age. The printing appears to be of good quality, though the image resolution makes it difficult to assess fine details or potential printing errors. The perforations seem intact, but the paper itself might show slight signs of creasing or handling wear, particularly around the cancellation mark. The stamp's overall condition appears to be circulated but relatively well-preserved for its age, save for the cancellation.