Virgin Islands 3-Cent Postage Stamp (Used)

This item is a used postage stamp from the Virgin Islands, denominated at 3 cents. The stamp features a central vignette depicting a detailed landscape scene with a body of water in the foreground, possibly a harbor or bay, leading to land with buildings and prominent palm trees. A large, rounded hill or mountain dominates the background. The scene is framed by an ornate border with classical scrollwork designs in the upper corners. The words "VIRGIN ISLANDS" are clearly visible along the top edge of the stamp. The denomination "3" is present in the lower left and lower right corners, enclosed within a square or rectangular panel with a decorative outline. The primary color of the stamp is a monochromatic purple, indicating it was likely printed using a single ink color. The perforations are visible along the edges, although the full extent is not clearly discernible in the image. A significant characteristic is the cancellation mark, consisting of three thick, wavy, horizontal black lines across the central image, indicating that the stamp has been used. The cancellation heavily obscures part of the landscape and the central portion of the stamp's design. The stamp is affixed to what appears to be part of an envelope or paper, suggesting it was removed or is still attached to its original mail. The condition appears to be consistent with a used stamp; while the cancellation is prominent, there are no immediately obvious tears or major creases. The edges of the perforations seem relatively intact, though some minor wear might be present due to handling or age. This stamp likely dates from a period when such pictorial designs were common for colonial or territorial postal issues, possibly early to mid-20th century.