U.S. Postage Stamp, Ulysses S. Grant, 1890-1893 Regular Issue, 25-Cent Bister

This is a United States postage stamp featuring a portrait of Ulysses S. Grant, likely from the 1890-1893 Regular Issue, known as the 'Small Bank Note' or 'First Bureau Issue'. The stamp is a rich reddish-brown color, also known as 'bister', with perforations along all four edges, indicating it was intended for postal use. The central vignette prominently displays a detailed bust of Ulysses S. Grant, facing slightly to the right, characterized by his distinctive beard and hair, rendered with fine lines suggesting an engraved printing method. Below the portrait, the words 'UNITED STATES POSTAGE' are clearly visible in a rectangular panel. To the left and right of this panel are two smaller square cartouches, each containing the numeral '25', denoting the stamp's denomination of 25 cents. The overall design features a decorative border around the central portrait and the lower denomination panel. The stamp appears to be mounted or encased, possibly in a stockbook or album, as suggested by the dark border around the perforations and a faint marking (possibly a date or inventory number '1.25') beneath it. The condition of the stamp, while somewhat obscured by the image quality, appears to be relatively good with no immediately obvious tears or heavy creases. The perforations seem intact. The color is consistent, suggesting no significant fading or discoloration. The printing quality appears sharp for its age, reflecting the craftsmanship typical of early Bureau of Engraving and Printing issues. The style is classical, typical of late 19th-century American definitive postage stamps.