Usps Special Delivery Appraisal

U.S. Special Delivery Postage Stamp, 10 Cents

This item is a United States postage stamp, specifically a Special Delivery stamp with a denomination of 10 cents. The stamp features a central vignette depicting a detailed scene. In the foreground, a delivery person, likely a postman due to the 'SPECIAL DELIVERY' inscription at the top, is shown standing in a doorway or entrance of a building, possibly a residence or a post office branch. To the right of the delivery person, a vintage-style motorcycle is parked, suggesting the mode of transport for special deliveries during the period this stamp was issued. The building itself exhibits architectural details such as a prominent arched doorway, windows, and what appears to be brickwork or stone facade, with some decorative elements possibly indicating a federal building or establishment. Trees or shrubbery flank the building. The stamp's color scheme appears to be predominantly monochromatic, in shades of purple or violet, a common color for U.S. stamps of certain eras. The words 'UNITED STATES POSTAGE' are clearly legible at the very top, with 'SPECIAL' on the left side and 'DELIVERY' on the right side of the main image. Below the motorcycle, partially visible, are the words 'AT ANY UNITED STATES POST OFFICE'. The denomination '10' is enclosed in circular frames in both lower corners, and the words 'TEN CENTS' are printed along the bottom edge of the central design. The stamp is perforated around all edges, which is typical for postage stamps, suggesting it was once part of a sheet. There are visible cancellation marks, specifically a black ink mark running diagonally across the lower left portion of the central image and another fainter mark near the upper right. These cancellations indicate that the stamp has been used. The paper appears slightly aged, and the overall image clarity is moderate but sufficient for identification. The style and imagery suggest an issuance period in the early to mid-20th century, consistent with the design elements and the use of motorcycles for delivery.