Inverted 1 Cent United States Postage Due Stamp

This item is a 1-cent United States postage due stamp, predominantly in shades of red, with a distinct design. The stamp is rectangular with perforated edges, typical of postal stamps. The central design features a large numeral '1' which appears to be inverted relative to the surrounding text and border, suggesting a printing error or intentional variation. Above the central '1', an arched banner with text reads "POSTAGE DUE", while "UNITED STATES" is visible at the very top of the stamp, spanning the width. The denomination "1 CENT" is printed along the bottom edge. In the lower left and right corners, circular emblems each contain another numeral '1'. The background within the central design features a circular pattern or fine lines. The colors are faded and muted, as is typical for aged paper items, leaning towards a brick red or rusty tone rather than a vibrant red. The clarity of the image is somewhat soft and out of focus, making it difficult to discern exact details of the printing process or paper texture. However, the perforations appear relatively intact, though some wear or minor tearing might be present along the edges due to handling or removal from a sheet. The overall condition appears used, given the softened details and potential for minor edge wear. The inversion of the central numeral '1' suggests this could be a philatelically significant item, potentially rare if it is a genuine error rather than a common variant. This type of stamp would likely date from the late 19th to early 20th century, a common period for postage due issues with such designs.