Arago: 5-cent Grant

Certified plate proofs are the last printed proof of the plate before printing the stamps at the Bureau of Engraving and Printing. These plate proofs are each unique, with the approval signatures and date. For postal scholars these plates provide important production information in the plate margin inscriptions, including guidelines, plate numbers, and initials of the siderographer, or person who created the plate from a transfer roll.

Plate No. 408

Denomination: 5c

Subject: Ulysses S. Grant

Color: chocolate

Although the stamp, Scott 281, was printed in a changed color (dark blue), the proof was printed before the change of colors.