1938 United States 6-Cent Eagle Air Mail Stamp (Scott #C23)

This is a 6-cent United States air mail postage stamp, first issued in 1938. The stamp is printed in a distinct carmine (reddish-pink) ink and features a central illustration of a stylized eagle with outspread wings, reminiscent of an airplane in flight. The orientation of the stamp is horizontal (oblong). The bottom border contains the text 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA' in a white serif font against a dark background, while the denominations '6 CENTS' and the words 'AIR MAIL' are positioned centrally. The physical condition of this specific specimen indicates it is a 'used' stamp. There is a visible black ink cancellation mark or postal strike running across the face, specifically showing parts of a circular date stamp and the word 'SERVICE'. This indicates it has fulfilled its postal function. The perforations around the edges appear largely intact, though there is some slight unevenness or 'short perfs' visible along the left and bottom edges. The color remains relatively vibrant, though there is minor surface wear and a light horizontal crease may be present near the center. The centering of the design within the perforated margins is slightly unbalanced, favoring the bottom and left edges, which is a common manufacturing characteristic of the period. This stamp was produced using the rotary press printing method.