1960 USSR Swan Postage Stamp

This is a vintage postage stamp from the Soviet Union (USSR), specifically issued in 1960 as part of the 'Protect Useful Birds' series. The stamp features a white swan swimming on water, rendered in shades of blue and white. Across the top, the Cyrillic text 'ОХРАНЯЙТЕ ПОЛЕЗНЫХ ПТИЦ' translates to 'Protect Useful Birds'. At the bottom, the denomination '1 РУБЛЬ' (1 Ruble) and 'ПОЧТА СССР' (Post USSR) are clearly visible. The printing appears to be a comb perforation on paper, showing a slightly coarse, almost woodcut or painterly texture characteristic of mid-century Soviet philatelic design. Regarding condition, the stamp is postmarked with a black circular date stamp visible on the right side, indicating it was used for mailing. The perforations around the edges appear largely intact, though there is some minor toning and aging on the white borders. A slight crease or horizontal line is visible across the middle, likely from being attached to an envelope cover. The blue ink remains relatively vibrant, though some slight fading is expected given its estimated 60-year age. This piece reflects Socialist Realist design influences applied to wildlife conservation themes, a common motif in Soviet postal history.

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