AI Appraisal Estimate

This item is a used postage stamp from the Soviet Union (USSR), likely issued in 1980 as indicated by the '1980' year printed at the top right of the stamp. The stamp features a portrait of a male artist, identified in Cyrillic script at the bottom as "ЖАН ОГЮСТ ДОМИНИК ЭНГР" (Jean Auguste Dominique Ingres), with his birth and death years "1780-1867" below his name. The artist is depicted holding what appears to be a brush or stylus, and in the background to his right, there is a classical nude female figure, possibly representing Ingres' painting 'Vénus Anadyomène'. The color palette predominantly features warm earthy tones, with the artist's skin tone and the background exhibiting shades of brown and ochre, contrasted by his dark jacket and white shirt. The denomination '32к' (32 kopecks) is visible in the upper right corner. The stamp measures approximately 2.5 cm by 3.5 cm, with standard perforations around its perimeter, indicating it was intended for postal use. The condition appears to be good, with no obvious major tears or creases, although some minor wear consistent with its age and potential handling is visible along the edges and perforations. The colors remain relatively vibrant, suggesting it has been preserved reasonably well. This stamp is a philatelic item, likely part of a series honoring painters or significant cultural figures, characteristic of state-issued stamps that often depicted national achievements or cultural icons during the Soviet era. Its age places it within the late Soviet period.

Based on my visual examination of the provided image, this USSR 1980 postage stamp featuring Jean Auguste Dominique Ingres appears authentic and in good, used condition. The '1980' year, '32k' denomination, and Cyrillic inscription for Ingres are consistent with known Soviet philatelic issues. The colors are vibrant, and the perforations intact, with only minor wear visible, suggesting it has been reasonably preserved. Its size is typical for the era. However, without a physical examination, I cannot definitively confirm the absence of subtle flaws such as thins, creases, or minor repairs that might be missed in photographic representation. Authenticity verification from images alone is limited; an in-person inspection would allow for examination of paper type, watermarks (if any), gum condition (though used, so likely regummed or no original gum), and detection of hidden faults or repairs under magnification. Comparison with known catalog examples would also be more precise with the physical item. From a market perspective, this stamp is a common issue from the late Soviet period. Stamps from this era, even those featuring prominent artists, were produced in very high quantities. The demand for common, used Soviet stamps like this is generally low among serious collectors, though it might appeal to a thematic collector interested in art on stamps or USSR philately. Rarity is not a factor here. Its value is primarily driven by its commonality and the fact that it is a used, rather than mint, example. Common, mass-produced stamps, even those decades old, typically hold minimal market value unless part of a complete set or series in mint condition. The primary factors impacting value are its common status and used condition. Mint examples, especially if part of a complete set, would command slightly higher prices. Considering these factors, I would place the appraisal value for this individual used stamp in the range of $0.50 to $2.00. This reflects its modest market demand and high availability. It's a collector's item, but not one of significant monetary value.