Abraham Lincoln 3 Cents US Postage Stamp

The item is a used United States postage stamp featuring a portrait of Abraham Lincoln, with a denomination of '3 CENTS'. The stamp is predominantly purple (lilac/mauve) in color, with a delicate scrollwork frame surrounding the central bust of Lincoln. The words 'UNITED STATES POSTAGE' curve around the top of the portrait, and the denomination '3 CENTS' is prominently displayed below it, flanked by two '3's in circles. The stamp exhibits a perforated edge, which appears somewhat irregularly torn or cut along the top and bottom, with more intact perforations on the left and right sides. There is visible wear and discoloration, particularly a dark mark or cancellation in the lower right quadrant of the stamp, covering part of the '3 CENTS' text and the surrounding frame. The paper shows signs of age-related toning, appearing slightly off-white or yellowish. Given the purple color and the Lincoln portrait, this stamp likely belongs to the Fourth Bureau Issue (perf. 10) of US postage stamps, commonly issued in the 1910s and 1920s. Its condition, with the heavy cancellation and irregular edges, suggests it circulated as intended for postal use. The printing quality appears consistent with early 20th-century philatelic production, characterized by a detailed engraving style for the portrait.