Patrick Henry Stamp Appraisal

1955 $1 Patrick Henry Liberty Issue Postage Stamp (Scott #1052)

This is a United States definitive postage stamp from the Liberty Issue series, featuring a portrait of Patrick Henry. The stamp is printed in a deep reddish-purple (often described as wine or purple) ink using the intaglio rotary press process. The design features a meticulous line-engraved portrait of the American Revolutionary figure wearing spectacles atop his head, with the name 'PATRICK HENRY' to the right and '$1 U.S. POSTAGE' in the lower-left corner. The stamp measures approximately 21mm by 25mm and features standard perforations (perf 11 x 10.5). Regarding condition, the stamp shows visible evidence of being 'used' or 'hinged' with a light circular cancellation mark visible on the left side of Henry's neck. The centering is moderately off-balance, leaning towards the bottom-left margin. The perforation teeth appear largely intact, though there is minor toning or light foxing visible on the white margins and along the tips of the perforations. The engraving remains sharp, showcasing high-quality craftsmanship characteristic of the Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP) during the mid-20th century. This specific $1 denomination was first issued on October 7, 1955, and remained in common use for high-value mailings for several years.