Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
This is the fifth federal 'Duck Stamp' ever issued, featuring a pair of pintail ducks landing in a marshy wetland. Designed by artist Roland Clark, this light violet-brown stamp represents a crucial early chapter in American wildlife conservation history. Unlike standard postage, these revenue stamps were required for hunting migratory waterfowl, with proceeds directly funding wetland preservation.
Story
In 1934, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the Duck Stamp Act to rescue America's vanishing wetlands. This 1938 issue features pintails in flight, serving as a beautiful, miniature passport to conservation.
Maker / Origin
The design was created by Roland Clark, a celebrated American artist and sportsman famous for his evocative etchings of waterfowl. The Bureau of Engraving and Printing meticulously translated his original artwork into a steel-plate engraving, capturing the delicate texture of the feathers and the movement of the marsh grass.
Condition & Value
The front shows decent centering and strong color, but there is a noticeable crease or bend in the upper right corner. The reverse photo is blurry but suggests some gum disturbance, possible hinge remnants, or light toning. The perforations appear mostly intact, though a few show minor wear.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.