1975 United States 13-Cent Eagle and Shield Postage Stamp

This is a used 13-cent United States postage stamp, part of the Americana Series issued starting in 1975. The design features a stylized American Bald Eagle holding a shield with red and white stripes and a blue field, symbolizing the national motto 'E PLURIBUS UNUM' and 'ONE NATION INDIVISIBLE' printed in blue along the upper and left borders. The stamp is printed on paper with a textured, fibrous appearance and exhibits standard perforations, though they are significantly damaged. The condition of this specimen is poor; it displays heavy creasing across the center, irregular and torn edges where the perforations have been roughly handled, and a faint vertical fold line. A black wavy-line postal cancellation mark is prominently visible across the left and center of the stamp face, indicating it has been through the mail system. There are also signs of surface wear and slight discoloration consistent with age and previous use. The color palette includes shades of brown for the eagle, vibrant red for the denominations and shield stripes, and a deep blue for the text and shield field.