Shades of this stamp lately observed would indicate that in the late printings, this stamp is gradually assuming the carmine hue customarily seen in the 2¢ denomination.  The first printings of the stamp were in a dull brick red, and similar to the 9¢ stamp of the same series, but the color appears to have been deepened and it will be of interest to watch further printings.  The change may or may not be intentional, but it is definite.
 

- George B. Sloane
Sloane's Column
Stamps
November 3, 1934

The new 3¢ Rhode Island stamp looks like an advertisement for  Quaker Oats.

- ibid.
May 30, 1936

Posted September 15, 1999