1986 Hugo L. Black 5-Cent Definitive Postage Stamp

This is a United States definitive postage stamp from the Great Americans series, originally issued in 1986. The stamp features a portrait of Hugo L. Black, an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States. It is printed in olive green or dark brownish-green ink on off-white or cream-colored paper. The design depicts a right-facing portrait of Black with his name 'Hugo L. Black' printed vertically on the left side and the denomination '5 USA' at the bottom. The stamp exhibits standard perforation on all four sides. Physically, the stamp shows evidence of being used or previously handled; there appears to be a faint circular reddish-pink ink mark on the forehead area of the portrait, which is likely a partial postal cancellation mark. The perforations appear largely intact, though there is slight darkening around the edges consistent with age. The stamp is presented inside a protective glassine or plastic sleeve, which has significant creasing and folding. This specific issue was designed by Christopher Calle and printed via the intaglio process by the Bureau of Engraving and Printing. While a common philatelic item, its value in an appraisal context is determined by its condition, centering, and the clarity of its cancellation mark.