The United States Postal Service issued a commemorative postage stamp honoring Elvis Presley in 1993. With a face value of 29 cents, it featured a stylized portrait of the iconic performer. This issuance exemplified the practice of commemorating significant figures and events through philatelic releases.
This particular stamp reflects the cultural impact of Elvis and the enduring fascination with his music and persona. Its release resonated with collectors and fans alike, demonstrating the power of postage stamps to capture and preserve moments in history and popular culture. The stamp’s popularity contributed to its widespread usage on mail at the time and its continued presence in stamp collections worldwide.
Further exploration into this topic could delve into the design process of the stamp, its reception by the public, its current value for collectors, and the broader context of commemorative postage stamps issued by the USPS.
Tips for Collectors of Commemorative Postage
Building a meaningful collection of commemorative postage requires careful consideration and strategic planning. The following tips offer guidance for both novice and seasoned collectors.
Tip 1: Research and Selection: Thorough research is essential. Focus on specific themes, historical periods, or individuals of interest. Building a specialized collection often yields greater satisfaction and value over time.
Tip 2: Condition is Key: Prioritize stamps in excellent condition. Mint, never-hinged stamps are typically more valuable than used ones. Look for stamps free from tears, creases, or discoloration.
Tip 3: Proper Storage: Protect investments by storing stamps in acid-free albums or mounts. Avoid direct sunlight and humidity to prevent damage.
Tip 4: Authentication and Appraisal: For valuable stamps, consider authentication and appraisal by reputable philatelic experts. This ensures authenticity and provides an accurate assessment of value.
Tip 5: Networking and Community: Engage with other collectors through philatelic societies, online forums, and local stamp shows. Sharing knowledge and experiences enriches the collecting journey.
Tip 6: Patience and Persistence: Building a significant collection takes time and dedication. Patience in searching for specific items and persistence in maintaining the collection are crucial for long-term success.
Tip 7: Budgeting and Value: Establish a budget and research the market value of desired stamps. This prevents overspending and ensures informed purchasing decisions.
By adhering to these guidelines, collectors can cultivate a fulfilling hobby, preserving historical and cultural artifacts while potentially building a valuable asset.
These insights provide a foundation for developing a rewarding collecting strategy. The subsequent sections will further elaborate on specific aspects of philately and delve into related topics.
1. Commemorative Postage
Commemorative postage represents a specialized category of stamps issued to honor individuals, events, or themes of historical, cultural, or social significance. The 1993 Elvis Presley stamp exemplifies this practice, highlighting the role of commemorative postage in celebrating iconic figures.
- Subject Matter:
Commemorative stamps feature diverse subjects, ranging from historical anniversaries and national achievements to prominent figures and cultural icons. The Elvis stamp falls under the latter, recognizing his impact on music and popular culture. This thematic focus distinguishes commemorative stamps from definitive issues intended for everyday postal use.
- Limited Production and Release:
Unlike definitive stamps printed in large quantities and available for extended periods, commemorative stamps often have limited production runs and specific release dates. This contributes to their collectibility and potential value appreciation. The Elvis stamp, issued in 1993, exemplifies this limited availability, increasing its appeal among collectors.
- Cultural and Historical Significance:
Commemorative stamps serve as miniature historical documents, encapsulating significant moments and figures. They reflect a nation’s values and priorities, preserving cultural memory. The Elvis stamp encapsulates his enduring influence on American music and popular culture, reflecting his historical significance.
- Philatelic Value and Collectibility:
Commemorative stamps hold value beyond their postage function, becoming sought-after collectibles. Factors like condition, rarity, and subject matter influence their value. The Elvis stamp, due to its popularity and limited availability, became a desirable addition to stamp collections worldwide, contributing to its philatelic value.
The Elvis Presley stamp exemplifies the key characteristics of commemorative postage. Its issuance underscores the power of stamps to commemorate cultural icons and historical moments, bridging philately with broader cultural and historical narratives. The stamp’s enduring popularity further reinforces its value both as a postal artifact and a collectible item.
2. 1993 Issuance
The year 1993 holds specific relevance for the 29-cent Elvis Presley commemorative stamp as its year of issuance by the United States Postal Service. Understanding the context of this period provides valuable insight into the stamp’s significance and impact.
- Philatelic Trends of 1993:
The philatelic landscape of 1993 influenced the stamp’s design and release. Trends in stamp collecting, popular themes, and printing technologies of the time shaped the stamp’s characteristics. Examining these trends provides context for its creation and initial reception.
- Historical Context:
The broader historical context of 1993 provides a backdrop for understanding the stamp’s release. Significant events, cultural shifts, and prevailing social attitudes of the period likely influenced public perception and the stamp’s overall impact. Analyzing this historical context illuminates the cultural environment surrounding its issuance.
- Postal Rates and Usage:
The 29-cent denomination reflects the first-class postage rate in 1993. Examining postal rate history clarifies the stamp’s practical function and its intended usage within the postal system at the time. This analysis offers insight into the stamp’s circulation and its role in daily communication.
- Initial Reception and Impact:
The stamp’s release in 1993 generated public interest and media attention. Analyzing contemporary reports, articles, and collector reactions provides insight into the stamp’s initial reception and its immediate impact on philately and popular culture. This examination helps understand the stamp’s early significance.
The 1993 issuance date of the Elvis stamp provides a critical reference point for understanding its creation, distribution, and initial impact. Examining the philatelic trends, historical context, and postal rates of the time reveals deeper insights into the stamp’s enduring significance within both philately and broader cultural history.
3. Elvis Presley
Elvis Presley’s status as a cultural icon directly resulted in the creation of the 29-cent commemorative stamp. His profound influence on music, fashion, and popular culture ensured widespread recognition and a dedicated fan base, making him a natural subject for commemoration. The stamp itself serves as a tangible representation of Presley’s enduring legacy, solidifying his image within the historical and cultural landscape. The choice to feature Presley reflects the Postal Service’s recognition of his impact on American society. This decision demonstrates the power of stamps to honor individuals who have shaped national identity. For instance, the volume of stamps printed and their continued presence in collections worldwide underscores Presley’s lasting appeal.
The connection between Elvis Presley and the 29-cent stamp exemplifies the broader practice of commemorating influential figures through philatelic releases. The stamp functions not only as postage but also as a collectible item, carrying historical and cultural significance. The stamp’s value extends beyond its monetary worth, embodying a piece of American history. The act of collecting and preserving these stamps contributes to maintaining cultural memory and acknowledging the impact of individuals like Presley. Furthermore, the stamp serves as an accessible entry point for individuals interested in learning more about Elvis and his contributions to American culture. Its presence in collections worldwide ensures that future generations can connect with his legacy.
The 29-cent Elvis Presley stamp signifies more than just a postage item; it represents the enduring power of cultural icons. It serves as a reminder of Presley’s lasting impact and the role of commemorative stamps in preserving cultural memory. While challenges exist in quantifying the full impact of such commemorations, the stamp’s continued presence in collections and its recognition within philatelic circles solidify its importance as a historical artifact. Understanding this connection provides valuable insight into the intersection of popular culture, history, and philately.
4. Cultural Icon
The 29-cent Elvis stamp exemplifies the power of commemorative postage to celebrate cultural icons. Elvis Presley’s status as a transformative figure in music and popular culture directly led to his selection for this honor. His image, instantly recognizable worldwide, resonated with a broad public, making the stamp not just a postal item but a cultural artifact. This connection between cultural icon and commemorative stamp demonstrates how philately can reflect and reinforce broader societal values and admiration for influential figures. The stamp’s popularity upon release further solidified Elvis’s iconic status, creating a feedback loop where the stamp itself became a symbol of his enduring legacy.
This phenomenon extends beyond Elvis. Consider the stamps featuring Marilyn Monroe, another American cultural icon. Similar to the Elvis stamp, the Monroe stamp transcended its postal function, becoming a collectible item and a symbol of her enduring impact on cinema and popular culture. These examples highlight how stamps can solidify and transmit the legacies of cultural icons across generations. The selection process for commemorative stamps often reflects public sentiment and historical significance, underscoring the interplay between cultural impact and philatelic recognition. This understanding adds another layer to the study of stamps, moving beyond their practical use and delving into their role as historical and cultural markers.
The link between cultural icon and commemorative stamp offers valuable insight into the dynamics of public memory and the commemoration of influential figures. While challenges exist in objectively quantifying the long-term impact of such commemorations, the continued presence of these stamps in collections worldwide suggests their enduring significance. Further research could explore the criteria used by postal services in selecting subjects for commemorative stamps, offering a deeper understanding of how cultural value is assessed and translated into philatelic recognition. Analyzing market trends for these stamps could also provide insights into their perceived value and their role within the broader landscape of collectibles and cultural artifacts.
5. Collectible Item
The 29-cent Elvis stamp’s status as a collectible item stems from several converging factors. Its commemorative nature, limited production run, and association with a beloved cultural icon, Elvis Presley, contributed significantly to its desirability among collectors. The stamp transcends its utilitarian purpose as postage, becoming a tangible piece of cultural history. This transformation from postal artifact to collectible is further fueled by the emotional connection many individuals feel towards Elvis, transforming the stamp into a memento of his enduring legacy. This phenomenon parallels the collectibility of other memorabilia related to iconic figures, where the intrinsic value of the object is amplified by its association with a revered individual or event. For instance, consider baseball cards featuring legendary players; their value often derives not just from their rarity but also from their connection to a celebrated athlete and a specific moment in sports history. Similarly, the Elvis stamp’s value is enhanced by its association with a pivotal figure in American music and popular culture.
The stamp’s collectibility also contributes to a secondary market where its value can fluctuate based on factors like condition, demand, and market trends. Mint condition stamps, particularly those preserved in their original packaging or on the original envelope, often command higher prices. This market dynamic further underscores the stamp’s status as a collectible item, subject to the forces of supply and demand. The practice of collecting and preserving these stamps contributes to the preservation of cultural memory and provides a tangible link to the past. Moreover, the stamp’s accessibility, relative to other forms of Elvis memorabilia, allows a broader audience to participate in the act of collecting and commemorating his legacy. This accessibility enhances its appeal and contributes to its widespread presence in collections worldwide.
The Elvis stamp exemplifies the intersection of philately and popular culture, demonstrating how a utilitarian object can transform into a collectible item imbued with cultural and historical significance. While challenges exist in precisely quantifying the long-term value and cultural impact of such collectibles, the stamp’s enduring popularity and continued presence in collections suggest its lasting relevance. Further research could explore the factors driving the market for commemorative stamps and the broader implications of collecting as a means of preserving cultural memory. Such analysis could offer deeper insights into the interplay between individual collectors, market forces, and the enduring legacy of cultural icons.
6. Philatelic History
The 29-cent Elvis Presley stamp occupies a specific niche within philatelic history. Its 1993 issuance coincided with a period of increasing interest in thematic collecting and the recognition of popular culture figures within philately. This stamp reflects a broader trend within postal services worldwide to leverage the popularity of cultural icons to engage a wider audience in stamp collecting. The decision to commemorate Elvis solidified his place not just in musical history but also within the historical narrative of stamp collecting. The stamp’s design, featuring a stylized portrait of the singer, contributes to its aesthetic appeal and its recognition within philatelic circles. Moreover, the stamp’s relatively accessible price point at the time of its release facilitated its widespread acquisition and inclusion in collections of varying sizes and scopes. This accessibility broadened its reach and contributed to its enduring presence within philatelic history. Similar examples include the stamps featuring Marilyn Monroe, which also bridged the gap between popular culture and philatelic interest.
The Elvis stamp’s impact on philatelic history extends beyond its individual characteristics. It serves as a case study for the effectiveness of commemorative stamps in generating public interest and engaging new collectors. The stamp’s popularity arguably contributed to the subsequent issuance of other music-themed stamps, further solidifying the connection between popular culture and philately. Furthermore, the stamp’s enduring presence in collections worldwide underscores its contribution to the preservation of cultural memory. From a historical perspective, the stamp provides a tangible link to a specific era, reflecting the cultural values and interests of the time. Analyzing the stamp’s design, production numbers, and public reception offers insights into the broader philatelic landscape of the early 1990s. This understanding provides a foundation for further research into the evolution of stamp collecting and the ongoing interplay between philately and popular culture.
The 29-cent Elvis stamp’s place within philatelic history is multifaceted. It reflects broader trends in stamp collecting, serves as a tangible representation of cultural memory, and offers a case study for the impact of commemorative stamps. While quantifying its precise long-term influence remains a challenge, the stamp’s continued recognition and presence in collections underscore its lasting significance within the narrative of philately. Further investigation could explore the long-term market trends for this stamp and compare its trajectory with other commemorative issues, offering a more nuanced understanding of its place within the larger context of philatelic history.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the 29-cent Elvis Presley commemorative stamp.
Question 1: What makes the 29-cent Elvis stamp significant?
Its significance derives from the confluence of several factors: its commemorative nature, association with a cultural icon, limited production, and historical context within both philately and popular culture.
Question 2: What was the stamp’s denomination chosen?
The 29-cent denomination corresponded to the first-class postage rate in the United States at its time of issuance in 1993.
Question 3: How was the stamp’s design determined?
Specific details regarding the design selection process require further research within United States Postal Service archives. However, it likely involved input from designers, USPS officials, and potentially representatives of the Presley estate.
Question 4: What is the current market value of the stamp?
Market value fluctuates based on condition, demand, and availability. Consulting philatelic resources or professional appraisers provides the most accurate current valuations.
Question 5: Where can one acquire this stamp?
Potential sources include stamp dealers, online marketplaces specializing in philatelic materials, and auctions. Exercising due diligence regarding authenticity and condition is recommended.
Question 6: How should one store the stamp to preserve its condition?
Storage in acid-free albums or mounts, away from direct sunlight, humidity, and extreme temperatures, is crucial for preservation.
Understanding these key aspects enhances appreciation for this significant philatelic item.
Further sections will delve into more specialized areas related to the Elvis stamp and its broader philatelic context.
The 29-Cent Elvis Stamp
This exploration of the 29-cent Elvis stamp has highlighted its significance as both a philatelic item and a cultural artifact. From its 1993 issuance to its enduring presence in collections worldwide, the stamp reflects the convergence of popular culture, history, and the art of stamp collecting. Key aspects examined include its commemorative nature, the historical context of its release, Elvis Presley’s iconic status, its collectibility, and its place within philatelic history. The stamp’s ongoing relevance underscores the power of postage to commemorate influential figures and capture moments in cultural history.
The 29-cent Elvis stamp serves as a reminder of the enduring impact of cultural icons and the ability of seemingly small objects to encapsulate significant historical and cultural narratives. Further research into the broader trends within philately and the evolving market for commemorative stamps promises to yield deeper insights into the intersection of popular culture, history, and collecting practices. The stamp stands as a testament to the power of objects to connect us with the past and preserve cultural memory for future generations.
