Scotts #438 US stamps

#438 - 1914 - Perf. 10 - Single line USPS wmk

20¢ Pale ultramarine, ultramarine

Printing Method: FLAT PLATE
Subject: Benjamin Franklin
Number issued: 12,150,000
Perforations: 10
Watermark: Single line USPS wmk
Scott #: 438
Issued: September 19, 1914

Value

Used
$1 - $4
No postmark with gum (MH)
$40 - $90
Full perfect gum, no postmark
no trace of stamp hinge mark (MNH)
$180 - $375

The Watermark

The watermark consists of single lined USPS letters. A stamp may show only part of a letter or letters

Scenes from the Bureau

Bureau of Engraving, Washington DC. 1909

Bureau of Engraving, Washington DC. Examining a proof

A plentiful supply

This variety was current for over two years and is not as desirable as the previous 20¢ stamp. The change in perforation, which was introduced to strengthen the sheets, was quite obvious and the supply saved to philately has always been plentiful.

Plate Numbers

#438 was issued with the following plate #'s

Number Only
6908-09, 20, 26

Useage

This denomination was issued primarily for use on parcel post packages. When the 1902 series was first issued requests were received from business men for some values between the 15 and 50 cent stamps. This request was at that time rejected by the Department