Collectible 40 Cent Thomas Paine Stamp Guide

Collectible 40 Cent Thomas Paine Stamp Guide

This specific denomination of postage featuring the American Revolutionary figure, Thomas Paine, was issued in 1968 as part of the Prominent Americans series. It depicts a portrait of Paine based on a painting attributed to Laurent Dabos and includes his birth and death years (1737-1809). The stamp served as a common rate for first-class mail for a period of time.

Paine’s image on a postage stamp signifies his crucial role in American history. His pamphlet Common Sense galvanized public support for independence from British rule, while The American Crisis series of pamphlets bolstered morale during the Revolutionary War. This postal recognition underscores his enduring influence on American political thought and the nation’s founding principles. The stamp itself became a small but tangible piece of historical commemoration, circulated through the very postal system that connected the newly formed nation.

Further exploration of this topic could delve into the design and production of the stamp, its usage during its circulation period, and the broader context of philately related to historical figures. The stamp’s value to collectors, along with its place within the larger Prominent Americans series, offers additional avenues for research and discussion.

Tips for Collectors of the Thomas Paine Stamp

Individuals seeking to acquire this specific piece of postal history will find the following guidance beneficial.

Tip 1: Condition is Key: Like any collectible, condition significantly impacts value. Look for stamps with vibrant colors, sharp corners, and a clean, undamaged surface. Minimize handling to prevent creasing or smudging.

Tip 2: Understand Variations: Be aware of potential variations, such as different plate blocks or printing errors. These variations can influence a stamp’s rarity and desirability.

Tip 3: Reputable Sources Matter: Purchase from established stamp dealers, auction houses, or online marketplaces specializing in philately. This helps ensure authenticity and fair pricing.

Tip 4: Proper Storage is Essential: Protect the stamp from environmental factors like humidity, light, and temperature fluctuations. Archival-quality albums or protective mounts are recommended.

Tip 5: Research Current Market Value: Consult stamp catalogs, online resources, or expert appraisers to understand the current market value before buying or selling.

Tip 6: Consider Professional Authentication: For particularly valuable specimens, certification by a reputable philatelic expertizing service can provide added assurance of authenticity and grade.

By following these guidelines, collectors can make informed decisions and build a valuable and historically significant collection featuring this important American figure.

This exploration of collecting practices concludes the overview of the Thomas Paine stamp. Further research into broader philatelic topics is encouraged.

1. Denomination

1. Denomination, Center Stamp

The denomination of a postage stamp, in this case forty cents, represents its face value and directly relates to its intended postal use. Understanding the “40 cent Thomas Paine stamp” requires analyzing this specific face value within its historical context. This denomination provides insights into postal rates, the stamp’s intended purpose, and its relative value compared to other stamps issued during the same period.

  • Postal Rate Context

    A forty-cent denomination reflects the cost of first-class postage at the time of the stamp’s issue in 1968. This cost covered the handling, sorting, and delivery of a standard letter within the United States postal system. Analyzing historical postal rate charts can provide a more precise understanding of the services this specific denomination covered, such as weight limits and delivery speed.

  • Intended Use

    The forty-cent denomination likely corresponded to a specific weight or type of mail. For example, it may have been the standard rate for a one-ounce letter or a slightly heavier piece of mail. Researching postal regulations from 1968 can clarify the intended usage of this particular denomination.

  • Relative Value and Inflation

    Comparing the forty-cent denomination to other stamps issued in 1968, and to postal rates before and after that year, illustrates the effects of inflation and changing postal costs. This analysis offers insights into the economic environment of the time and how postal services were valued.

  • Collectible Value

    While the face value of the stamp remains forty cents, its collectible value can fluctuate significantly based on factors like condition, rarity, and demand. The original denomination provides a baseline, but the stamp’s historical significance as part of the Prominent Americans series featuring Thomas Paine adds to its appeal for collectors, potentially increasing its market value.

By examining the forty-cent denomination within these various contexts, a deeper understanding of the “40 cent Thomas Paine stamp” emerges. This analysis reveals not only its practical function within the postal system but also its historical and potential collectible value. Further research can explore how this denomination compares to others in the Prominent Americans series, providing a more comprehensive overview of postal history and philately.

2. Subject

2. Subject, Center Stamp

The subject of a postage stamp provides crucial context for understanding its significance. In the case of the 40-cent 1968 issue, the subject, Thomas Paine, directly links the stamp to a pivotal figure in American history. This choice elevates the stamp beyond its purely postal function and transforms it into a miniature tribute to Paine’s contributions. Examining the specific facets of Paine’s life and work illuminates the rationale behind his selection and deepens appreciation for the stamp’s historical value.

  • Revolutionary Writings

    Paine’s authorship of influential pamphlets like Common Sense and The American Crisis series directly contributed to the American Revolution. Common Sense advocated for independence from British rule, while The American Crisis writings bolstered morale during the war. Featuring him on a postage stamp acknowledges his pivotal role in shaping American political thought and the nation’s founding.

  • Advocacy for Republicanism

    Paine’s fervent belief in republican ideals, including representative government and individual liberties, strongly influenced the development of American democracy. His writings championed these principles, shaping the political landscape of the newly formed nation. The stamp serves as a reminder of these foundational ideals.

  • Influence on Public Opinion

    Paine’s powerful prose and persuasive arguments resonated deeply with the American public. His pamphlets reached a wide audience, mobilizing support for independence and shaping public discourse during a crucial period. The stamp’s circulation further disseminated his image and, symbolically, his ideas.

  • International Impact

    Paine’s influence extended beyond the American Revolution. His writings on human rights and political philosophy had an impact on revolutionary movements worldwide, including the French Revolution. The stamp, as a symbol of American history, indirectly acknowledges this broader international legacy.

By recognizing these key aspects of Thomas Paine’s life and work, the significance of his portrayal on the 40-cent stamp becomes clearer. The stamp not only facilitated postal communication but also served as a circulating commemoration of a pivotal figure in American history. Further exploration might consider the specific design choices of the stamp and how they reflect Paine’s image and legacy.

3. Issuing country

3. Issuing Country, Center Stamp

The 40 cent Thomas Paine stamp carries the distinction of being issued by the United States, a fact deeply intertwined with the stamps subject and historical context. This association underscores the nation’s recognition of Paine’s contributions to its founding and the importance of commemorating historical figures through official channels like postal issuance. Examining the connection between the issuing country and the stamp reveals a deeper understanding of national identity, historical memory, and the power of symbolic representation.

  • National Identity and Commemoration

    The United States, by issuing this stamp, actively participates in shaping national identity and historical memory. The selection of Thomas Paine as a subject reflects the nation’s values and its narrative of its own origins. This act of commemoration reinforces Paines place within the American historical canon and transmits his legacy to future generations through a widely circulated medium.

  • Postal Authority and Official Recognition

    The stamp’s issuance by the United States Postal Service represents an official act of recognition. This official capacity imbues the stamp with authority and legitimacy, solidifying its status as a historical marker. It distinguishes the stamp from privately produced commemoratives, underscoring its role as a nationally sanctioned tribute.

  • Symbolic Representation and National Narrative

    The stamp functions as a symbolic representation of both Thomas Paine and the United States. Paine’s image, coupled with the nation’s name and postal authority, creates a powerful visual narrative linking individual contributions to the broader national story. The stamp becomes a small, tangible embodiment of this historical narrative, circulated throughout the country.

  • Philatelic Context and National Heritage

    Within philately, the 40 cent Thomas Paine stamp becomes part of the larger narrative of United States postal history. It joins a collection of stamps that reflect the nation’s evolving values, historical figures, and cultural touchstones. Collectors and historians can study these stamps to gain insights into how the nation has chosen to represent itself and its heritage over time.

By exploring the relationship between the issuing country and the “40 cent Thomas Paine stamp,” a deeper understanding of the stamp’s significance emerges. The stamp transcends its function as mere postage and becomes a testament to the United States recognition of Thomas Paine’s contributions and its commitment to preserving historical memory. Further research could examine how this stamp fits within the broader context of other U.S. postage stamps commemorating historical figures and events, revealing patterns in national narratives and commemorative practices.

4. Year of issue

4. Year Of Issue, Center Stamp

The year 1968 provides crucial context for understanding the 40-cent Thomas Paine stamp. This year, marked by social and political upheaval in the United States and globally, influenced the stamp’s reception and imbues it with a specific historical significance. Analyzing the sociopolitical climate of 1968 illuminates the backdrop against which the stamp emerged and adds a layer of complexity to its interpretation.

The Vietnam War, the Civil Rights Movement, and the assassinations of Martin Luther King Jr. and Robert F. Kennedy shaped public discourse and fueled social unrest. Within this tumultuous environment, the issuance of a stamp commemorating Thomas Paine, a revolutionary figure who advocated for radical social and political change, takes on added meaning. Paine’s calls for independence and individual liberties resonated with some segments of a society grappling with fundamental questions of freedom, equality, and the role of government. Conversely, others may have viewed the choice of Paine, given his radical views, as a controversial decision in such a turbulent time.

Furthermore, the postal rate of 40 cents in 1968 reflects the economic conditions of the period. Analyzing historical postal rates reveals inflationary pressures and economic changes that influenced the cost of postal services. The stamp, therefore, serves as a tangible artifact of the economic realities of 1968. Additionally, the design and printing techniques employed in the stamp’s production reflect the technological capabilities of the time. Examining these technical aspects provides further insight into the stamp’s creation within its historical context.

In summary, the year 1968 provides a crucial framework for interpreting the 40-cent Thomas Paine stamp. The sociopolitical climate, economic conditions, and technological capabilities of that year shaped the stamp’s creation, reception, and enduring historical significance. Understanding this context allows for a richer appreciation of the stamp as both a historical artifact and a reflection of a pivotal moment in American history. Further investigation might explore how the stamp was received by the public and media in 1968, adding another layer of understanding to its historical impact.

5. Series

5. Series, Center Stamp

The “40 cent Thomas Paine stamp” holds significance not only as an individual postal item but also as a component of the larger “Prominent Americans” series. This series provides a crucial framework for understanding the stamp’s purpose, design, and historical context. Exploring the characteristics and objectives of the series illuminates the rationale behind Paine’s inclusion and provides deeper insight into the stamp’s significance.

  • Commemorative Function

    The “Prominent Americans” series serves a primarily commemorative function, honoring individuals who made substantial contributions to American history, culture, and society. By featuring these figures on postage stamps, the series transforms everyday postal communication into acts of remembrance and historical reflection. Paine’s inclusion underscores his recognized importance in the American narrative, specifically his contributions to the nation’s founding.

  • Selection Criteria and Historical Representation

    The selection process for figures featured in the series reflects specific historical narratives and values. Criteria likely included individuals’ impact on American society, their embodiment of national ideals, and their enduring legacy. Paine’s selection highlights his contributions to political thought and revolutionary action, positioning him as a key figure in the American story. The series, therefore, offers insights into how the nation chooses to represent its own history and which figures it elevates to positions of prominence.

  • Design Consistency and Aesthetic Considerations

    The “Prominent Americans” series likely adhered to specific design principles, ensuring visual consistency across different stamps while also capturing the unique qualities of each individual featured. Analysis of the series’ design elements, such as typography, portraiture, and framing, reveals aesthetic trends and artistic choices of the period. The Thomas Paine stamp’s design, viewed within this broader context, provides insights into how visual representation contributes to the overall message and impact of the series.

  • Philatelic Context and Collectibility

    Within philately, the “Prominent Americans” series holds a distinct place, offering collectors a thematic focus and enhancing the desirability of individual stamps. Completing a collection of stamps within the series becomes a pursuit that combines historical interest with philatelic value. The Thomas Paine stamp, as part of this larger collection, benefits from the series’ overall appeal and gains added value for collectors seeking a comprehensive representation of prominent Americans on postage.

By analyzing the “40 cent Thomas Paine stamp” within the context of the “Prominent Americans” series, its significance becomes more fully realized. The series provides a framework for understanding the stamp’s commemorative purpose, its place within a larger historical narrative, and its value within the world of philately. Further research could explore other figures included in the series and compare their contributions, design choices, and philatelic value, offering a comprehensive overview of this important aspect of American postal history.

6. Design

6. Design, Center Stamp

The design of the 40-cent Thomas Paine stamp, featuring a portrait and dates, provides crucial insights into its commemorative function and historical context. These design elements work together to convey a specific image of Paine and situate him within a particular historical narrative. Analyzing the portrait’s source, artistic style, and the inclusion of dates enhances understanding of the stamp’s intended message and its contribution to Paine’s legacy.

  • Portrait Source and Authenticity

    The portrait on the stamp derives from a painting attributed to Laurent Dabos. Understanding the portrait’s origins and its perceived level of historical accuracy informs interpretations of Paine’s image. Determining whether the portrait is a faithful representation or an idealized depiction influences how viewers perceive Paine’s character and appearance. Questions of authenticity and artistic license contribute to the ongoing discourse surrounding historical representation on postage stamps.

  • Artistic Style and Engraving Techniques

    The stamp’s artistic style, influenced by engraving techniques and printing limitations of the time, contributes to its overall aesthetic and message. The specific engraving methods employed affect the portrait’s detail, texture, and emotional impact. Analyzing these technical aspects provides insight into the artistic choices made in the stamp’s creation and their influence on viewers’ perception of Paine.

  • Inclusion of Dates and Historical Contextualization

    The inclusion of Paine’s birth and death dates (1737-1809) on the stamp serves to contextualize him within a specific historical timeframe. These dates provide a concise biographical marker, anchoring Paine’s life and contributions within a broader historical narrative. This temporal framing encourages viewers to consider Paine’s legacy within the larger context of American history.

  • Symbolic Representation and National Narrative

    The combined elements of portrait and dates contribute to a symbolic representation of Paine’s significance in American history. The portrait conveys a sense of his character and presence, while the dates anchor him within a specific historical period. Together, these elements create a visual narrative that reinforces Paine’s role in the nation’s founding and contributes to the ongoing construction of national identity.

By examining the design choices of the 40-cent Thomas Paine stampspecifically the portrait, its source, and the inclusion of datesa deeper understanding of the stamp’s commemorative function and historical context emerges. These design elements work together to convey a particular image of Paine and contribute to his lasting legacy. Further research might compare this stamp’s design to other stamps in the “Prominent Americans” series or to other depictions of Paine, revealing broader trends in historical portraiture and commemorative practices.

7. Purpose

7. Purpose, Center Stamp

The “40 cent Thomas Paine stamp” served a fundamental purpose: postage. While its commemorative aspect celebrates a historical figure, its primary function facilitated the delivery of mail within the United States postal system. Understanding this core purpose provides essential context for interpreting the stamp’s significance within both postal history and broader historical narratives. Examining the various facets of its postal role reveals the stamp’s practical function and its connection to communication networks of the era.

  • Facilitating Communication

    The stamp’s core function was to prepay postal services, enabling individuals and businesses to send letters and other mail items. This facilitated communication across geographical distances, connecting communities and individuals throughout the United States. The 40-cent denomination likely corresponded to a specific weight or type of mail, reflecting the tiered pricing structure of postal services. The stamp’s usage contributed to the efficient operation of the postal system, ensuring the smooth flow of information and correspondence.

  • Revenue Generation for Postal Services

    The sale of postage stamps, including the Thomas Paine issue, generated revenue for the United States Postal Service. This revenue stream supported the operational costs of the postal system, including mail processing, transportation, and delivery infrastructure. The stamp’s contribution to postal finances reflects its role within a larger economic framework supporting national communication networks.

  • Reflecting Postal Rates and Economic Conditions

    The 40-cent denomination provides insight into postal rates prevalent in 1968. Comparing this rate to historical postal costs reveals trends in pricing and economic conditions influencing postal services. Changes in postal rates often reflect broader economic shifts, such as inflation or changes in service delivery models. The stamp serves as a tangible record of these economic factors.

  • Circulation and Reach

    The stamp’s primary purpose as postage ensured its wide circulation throughout the United States. Unlike commemorative items intended for limited distribution, postage stamps reach a broad audience through the very act of mailing. This wide circulation contributed to the visibility of Thomas Paine’s image and, symbolically, his legacy, reaching a diverse population across geographical boundaries.

By examining the “40 cent Thomas Paine stamp” through the lens of its postal purpose, its significance extends beyond mere commemoration. The stamp’s role in facilitating communication, generating revenue, reflecting economic conditions, and achieving widespread circulation adds depth to its historical value. This multifaceted analysis illuminates the stamp’s practical function within the postal system and its broader impact on communication networks and historical memory. Further research could explore the evolution of postal rates and the changing role of postage stamps in an increasingly digital age, providing a comprehensive perspective on this essential aspect of communication history.

Frequently Asked Questions

This section addresses common inquiries regarding the 40-cent Thomas Paine stamp, providing concise and informative responses.

Question 1: What is the significance of the 40-cent Thomas Paine stamp?

Issued in 1968 as part of the Prominent Americans series, this stamp commemorates Thomas Paine’s contributions to American history, particularly his influential writings during the Revolutionary era. It served as a standard postage rate for a period, ensuring widespread circulation of his image.

Question 2: Why was Thomas Paine chosen for this stamp?

Paine’s authorship of Common Sense and The American Crisis pamphlets significantly influenced public opinion and the course of the American Revolution. His advocacy for independence and republican ideals made him a suitable subject for national recognition.

Question 3: What is the current value of this stamp?

The value varies based on condition, including factors like centering, color vibrancy, and the presence of any flaws. Consulting stamp catalogs or seeking professional appraisals provides the most accurate assessment of current market value.

Question 4: Where can one acquire this stamp?

Reputable stamp dealers, online marketplaces specializing in philately, and auction houses offer potential avenues for acquiring this stamp. Exercising due diligence regarding seller reputation and stamp authenticity is recommended.

Question 5: How should one store this stamp to preserve its condition?

Archival-quality stamp albums or protective mounts offer optimal storage solutions. Minimizing exposure to light, humidity, and temperature fluctuations helps prevent damage and preserves the stamp’s value.

Question 6: Are there any known variations or errors of this stamp?

While specific variations or errors require consultation with specialized philatelic resources, certain plate block variations or minor printing differences might exist. These variations can impact a stamp’s rarity and value among collectors.

Understanding these key aspects of the 40-cent Thomas Paine stamp allows for a deeper appreciation of its historical and philatelic significance. Further research into specialized resources can provide additional insights for collectors and enthusiasts.

This concludes the FAQ section. The following sections delve into further aspects of the stamp’s history and relevance.

Conclusion

Exploration of the 40-cent Thomas Paine stamp reveals a convergence of historical significance and philatelic interest. Issued in 1968 amidst a backdrop of social and political change, the stamp commemorates a pivotal figure in the American Revolution. Analysis of its denomination, design elements, and place within the “Prominent Americans” series provides a comprehensive understanding of its creation, purpose, and value. Furthermore, examination of Thomas Paine’s contributions to American political thought underscores the rationale for his selection as a subject for national recognition on postage.

The 40-cent Thomas Paine stamp stands as a testament to the power of postage to transcend its utilitarian function and serve as a vehicle for historical commemoration. This seemingly small artifact encapsulates a complex interplay of historical context, political significance, and artistic representation. Further research into the stamp’s reception in 1968, its impact on public perception of Thomas Paine, and its enduring legacy within philately offers avenues for continued exploration and deeper understanding of this intersection of history and communication.

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