Louisa May Alcott 5 Cents United States Postage Stamp

This item is a vintage United States postage stamp featuring a portrait of author Louisa May Alcott. The stamp is primarily monochromatic, likely printed in a shade of gray or blue-gray, consistent with classic postal issues. It is rectangular in shape with perforated edges, indicating it is likely an unused or carefully separated stamp. The central design prominently displays a bust-style portrait of Louisa May Alcott, encircled by an oval frame. She is depicted with her hair pulled back and wearing period-appropriate attire, including a high-necked collar. Above the portrait, the words "UNITED STATES POSTAGE" are clearly visible in an arched banner. Below the portrait, within a rectangular horizontal banner, the name "LOUISA MAY ALCOTT" is inscribed. In the lower right corner, there is a decorative shield-like element containing the denomination "5 CENTS" in white text on a darker background. The overall graphic design suggests a mid-20th-century aesthetic, characteristic of the 'Famous Americans' series. While the image quality is somewhat limited, the stamp appears to be in good condition for its age, with no obvious major tears or creases, though some very minor discoloration or foxing might be present on closer inspection, typical of aged paper. The perforations appear intact. The stamp is presented within what looks like a stamp album sheet, partially obscuring the right edge of the stamp and revealing a portion of an adjacent stamp.