Slovak Stamp Appraisal

Czechoslovakia 1938 Jindřich Fügner 50h Postage Stamp

This item is a historical postage stamp from Czechoslovakia, issued in 1938. The stamp's primary motif is a portrait of Jindřich Fügner, a prominent figure associated with the Sokol movement. The portrait style is realistic, suggesting an engraved or printed reproduction with fine line work, rendered in a monochrome, likely blue-grey or dark grey, ink on a light paper background. Fügner is depicted with a beard and mustache, wearing what appears to be formal attire or a uniform jacket, possibly with a cravat or elaborate necktie. The upper section of the stamp prominently features the country name 'ČESKOSLOVENSKO' in a sans-serif capital font. Below this, 'JINDŘICH FÜGNER' is inscribed in a smaller, similar font. The lower part of the stamp contains the inscription 'X. VŠESOKOLSKÝ SLET V PRAZE 1938', indicating its issuance commemorates the 10th All-Sokol Rally in Prague in 1938. The denomination '50h' is clearly visible in the lower right corner, likely representing 50 hellers. Small discernible text in the bottom left appears to be 'M.SVABINSKÝ', likely the artist or engraver, and in the bottom right, 'B.HONE', possibly the printer. The stamp exhibits classic perforations around its edges, although sections on the right edge show some minor wear or potential damage, possibly from handling or separation from a sheet. There are also faint horizontal lines across the image, suggesting the printing technique or texture of the paper. A partial postmark or cancellation mark is visible on the upper right, extending outside the frame of the stamp, indicating it has been used. The paper has a slight yellowish tint, possibly due to age or original paper color, and some minor discoloration or foxing may be present, particularly on the right side. Overall, the stamp appears to be in good, circulated condition for its age, showcasing historical printing methods and a significant cultural event.