Philatelic Souvenir Sheet Appraisal

Farley's Follies Great Smoky Mountains Souvenir Sheet

This item is a historical philatelic souvenir sheet, commonly referred to as one of "Farley's Follies." It features a 10-cent United States postage stamp depicting the Great Smoky Mountains, with a prominent pine tree in the foreground and rolling hills in the background. The stamp itself is framed by printed text on the surrounding sheet, indicating its origin and purpose. The sheet is approximately rectangular and appears to be made of off-white or light cream-colored paper. The stamp's design is rendered in a monochromatic green-blue ink, giving it a classic, engraved look. The surrounding text is printed in a dark, possibly black or very dark brown, ink. The text indicates that the sheet was produced "UNDER THE AUTHORITY OF JAMES A. FARLEY, POSTMASTER GENERAL." and "PRINTED BY THE TREASURY DEPARTMENT, BUREAU OF ENGRAVING AND PRINTING." It was issued "IN COMPLIMENT TO THE 43RD ANNUAL CONVENTION OF THE SOCIETY OF PHILATELIC AMERICANS." held in "ASHEVILLE, N.C., AUGUST 26-28, 1937." The sheet also displays "PLATE NUMBER 21695." The overall condition of the sheet appears to be well-preserved, encased within what looks like a protective plastic sleeve or album sheet, with no immediately visible tears, creases, or significant discoloration. The printing is clear and sharp, suggesting good quality control and preservation over time. The item represents a specific period in US postal history known for controversies surrounding Postmaster General James A. Farley's actions related to stamp distribution.