Russia – Scott # 1693, used

Description

This is a used stamp from the Soviet Union (USSR), Scott #1693, issued in 1964 to commemorate Valery Pavlovich Chkalov, one of the most celebrated Soviet test pilots and aviation pioneers.

The stamp features a portrait of Chkalov in flight gear, set against aviation motifs and commemorative text marking the 30th anniversary (1934–1964) associated with his achievements. Chkalov is best known for record-setting long-distance flights, including the first nonstop transpolar flight from the Soviet Union to the United States in 1937, feats that were widely used to symbolize Soviet technological prowess and heroism.

Rendered in restrained monochrome tones with fine engraving, the design reflects the Soviet tradition of honoring scientific and aviation figures as national icons. This issue is of interest to collectors of aviation history, Soviet personalities, and Cold War–era commemoratives.

Condition:
Used, with a clear postal cancellation. Perforations appear intact, and no major faults are visible. Overall condition is consistent with a clean, collectible used example.