The United States Postal Service issued a commemorative postage stamp honoring Lucy Stone, a prominent 19th-century suffragist and abolitionist, in 1968. The stamp, with a denomination of fifty cents, featured a portrait of Stone based on a photograph taken later in her life. It was part of the Prominent Americans series and represented a significant recognition of Stone’s contributions to American social reform.
This issuance served as a powerful symbol of the growing recognition of women’s rights and the ongoing struggle for equality. Stone’s tireless advocacy for women’s suffrage and her role in founding key organizations like the American Woman Suffrage Association made her a fitting subject for national recognition. The stamp’s release coincided with a period of renewed activism for women’s rights and helped raise awareness of Stone’s legacy among a wider audience. The relatively high denomination at the time also reflected the significance attributed to the subject.
Further exploration of this topic can delve into the design choices of the stamp, its production process, and its reception within the context of the social and political climate of the late 1960s. Additional areas of study include Stone’s broader impact on American history and the philatelic aspects of the stamp, such as its variations, errors, and value among collectors.
Tips for Collectors of the 1968 Lucy Stone Stamp
This section offers guidance for individuals interested in acquiring or enhancing their collection of the 1968 fifty-cent Lucy Stone commemorative stamp. Careful consideration of these tips can assist in making informed decisions and maximizing the value and enjoyment of this philatelic item.
Tip 1: Condition Assessment: Evaluate the stamp’s condition meticulously. Factors like centering, gum condition (if unused), and the presence of any flaws, such as tears or thin spots, significantly influence value.
Tip 2: Authentication: Obtain expert authentication for potentially valuable specimens. Certificates from reputable philatelic organizations provide assurance of genuineness and can enhance market value.
Tip 3: Research Market Value: Consult stamp catalogs, online marketplaces, and auction records to understand the current market value for stamps in similar condition.
Tip 4: Proper Storage: Utilize appropriate storage methods, such as acid-free albums and protective mounts, to prevent deterioration from environmental factors like light, humidity, and temperature fluctuations.
Tip 5: Understanding Variations: Familiarize oneself with potential variations in the stamp, such as different plate numbers or printing errors, as these can affect value and collectibility.
Tip 6: Networking with Other Collectors: Joining philatelic societies or online forums provides opportunities to connect with other collectors, share knowledge, and potentially acquire or trade stamps.
By following these guidelines, collectors can enhance their understanding of the 1968 Lucy Stone stamp, make informed acquisitions, and preserve their collection for future generations.
These collecting tips provide practical advice for acquiring and preserving this historical artifact. The subsequent conclusion will summarize the significance of Lucy Stone and her commemorative stamp.
1. Commemorative Postage
Commemorative postage plays a crucial role in recognizing significant individuals, events, and cultural aspects. The 1968 Lucy Stone stamp exemplifies this function. Unlike definitive stamps issued for everyday postal use, commemorative stamps celebrate specific subjects, raising public awareness and honoring historical contributions. The Lucy Stone stamp, with its 50-cent denomination, falls squarely within this category. Its issuance served not only as a postal emblem but also as a tribute to Stone’s tireless advocacy for women’s suffrage. Other examples of commemorative postage include stamps honoring historical figures like Abraham Lincoln or marking significant events such as the moon landing. These stamps transcend their practical postal function to become miniature historical artifacts, educating and engaging the public with important narratives.
The decision to issue a commemorative stamp for Lucy Stone underscores her importance within the broader context of American history. The stamp’s release in 1968, during the burgeoning women’s rights movement, amplified the message of equality and recognized Stone’s pioneering role in the fight for suffrage. This timing imbued the stamp with added significance, linking the historical struggle with contemporary social movements. Moreover, the choice of a 50-cent denomination, higher than standard postage at the time, further emphasized the importance attributed to Stone and her legacy. The stamp thus served as a tangible symbol of national recognition, elevating Stone’s contributions to a broader audience.
Understanding the function of commemorative postage provides a crucial lens for interpreting the significance of the 1968 Lucy Stone stamp. This form of postage transcends its utilitarian purpose to become a powerful tool for commemoration and education. By recognizing and celebrating key figures and events, commemorative stamps like the one honoring Lucy Stone contribute to a broader understanding of history and culture. The stamp serves as a lasting tribute to Stone’s legacy, reminding us of her enduring impact on the pursuit of equality and social justice. Its existence within the realm of commemorative postage solidifies its place as a significant historical artifact and a testament to the power of stamps to tell important stories.
2. Suffragist Icon
The connection between “suffragist icon” and the 1968 50-cent Lucy Stone stamp lies in the stamp’s commemoration of Stone’s pivotal role in the American women’s suffrage movement. The stamp serves as a tangible recognition of Stone’s enduring legacy as a leading advocate for women’s right to vote. It solidifies her status as a symbol of the struggle for gender equality.
- Advocacy and Activism:
Stone’s lifelong dedication to women’s rights encompassed public speaking, organizing, and writing. She co-founded the American Woman Suffrage Association and tirelessly campaigned for voting rights. The stamp acknowledges this activism, representing her enduring influence on the movement’s progress.
- Challenging Social Norms:
Stone defied societal expectations by keeping her maiden name after marriage, a radical act for the time. This defiance, symbolized by the stamp’s depiction of her, reflects her broader challenge to patriarchal structures and her commitment to individual autonomy. The stamp thus represents not just suffrage but also broader themes of women’s liberation.
- Lasting Legacy:
The stamp’s issuance in 1968, decades after Stone’s death, demonstrates the enduring impact of her work. It acknowledges her influence on subsequent generations of activists and the ongoing struggle for equal rights. The stamp itself contributes to this legacy by ensuring Stone’s continued visibility and recognition.
- Symbol of Progress:
The stamp functions as a symbol of the progress made in the fight for women’s rights. Its release during a period of renewed activism for gender equality served as a reminder of past struggles and an inspiration for continued efforts. The stamp’s visual representation of Stone reinforces her role as a key figure in this ongoing narrative of progress.
The 50-cent Lucy Stone stamp encapsulates Stone’s status as a suffragist icon. It serves not merely as a postage stamp but as a symbolic representation of her contributions to American history and the ongoing pursuit of equality. The stamp’s existence ensures that Stone’s legacy as a champion of women’s rights remains visible and continues to inspire future generations.
3. 1968 Issuance
The 1968 issuance of the fifty-cent Lucy Stone stamp holds particular significance due to the sociopolitical climate of the era. 1968 marked a tumultuous period in American history, characterized by the Civil Rights Movement, the Vietnam War, and widespread social unrest. Within this context, the release of a stamp honoring a prominent suffragist carried a potent message. The timing suggests a deliberate effort to recognize Stone’s contributions to social reform and connect her legacy to the ongoing struggles for equality. The stamp’s release coincided with a renewed focus on women’s rights, aligning with the burgeoning second-wave feminist movement. This confluence of historical events amplifies the stamp’s importance beyond mere philately, transforming it into a symbol of the era’s social and political dynamics.
The choice of 1968 also reflects a growing awareness of women’s historical contributions. While Stone’s work occurred decades earlier, the late 1960s witnessed a re-examination of historical narratives and a greater appreciation for the role of women in shaping American society. Issuing the stamp during this period served to elevate Stone’s profile and introduce her legacy to a new generation. This timing suggests an intentional effort to acknowledge the historical roots of contemporary social movements, demonstrating how past struggles informed present-day activism. Furthermore, the stamp’s release contributed to a broader national conversation surrounding women’s rights, fostering a deeper understanding of the historical context of these issues.
In summary, the 1968 issuance of the Lucy Stone stamp represents more than just a commemorative act. The timing places the stamp within a specific historical context, linking Stone’s legacy to the social and political movements of the era. The stamp’s release during a period of intense activism for equality amplifies its message and solidifies its role as a symbol of progress. Examining the stamp’s issuance date provides critical insights into its broader historical significance and contributes to a more nuanced understanding of its enduring legacy.
4. Fifty-cent denomination
The fifty-cent denomination of the 1968 Lucy Stone stamp provides a crucial lens for understanding its historical and philatelic context. This relatively high value for a commemorative stamp at the time signifies the importance attributed to Stone and her contributions to the women’s suffrage movement. Analyzing the denomination reveals insights into the stamp’s production, intended use, and perceived value within the broader postal and historical landscape.
- Cost and Purpose:
In 1968, fifty cents represented a substantial cost for a single stamp, far exceeding the standard postage rates for regular mail. This higher denomination suggests the stamp was intended for specific uses, such as mailing heavier packages or registered mail, rather than everyday correspondence. This purposeful allocation distinguished the Lucy Stone stamp from lower denomination issues, reinforcing its commemorative nature.
- Reflecting Value:
The fifty-cent denomination underscores the value ascribed to commemorating Lucy Stone. The Postal Service’s decision to assign this higher value reflects a recognition of Stone’s significant historical contributions and the importance of honoring her legacy. This deliberate choice elevates the stamp beyond a simple postal item, transforming it into a tangible symbol of national recognition and respect.
- Production and Distribution:
The higher denomination may have influenced the stamp’s production and distribution. While precise figures require further research, it’s plausible that fewer fifty-cent stamps were printed compared to lower denominations due to anticipated demand. This potential scarcity contributes to the stamp’s collectibility and value among philatelists.
- Historical Context:
The fifty-cent denomination provides valuable context for understanding postal rates and purchasing power in 1968. Analyzing the stamp’s cost relative to other goods and services at the time offers insights into the economic landscape and the perceived value of commemorative items. This economic perspective enhances our understanding of the stamp’s place within the broader historical context.
Examining the fifty-cent denomination of the Lucy Stone stamp reveals more than just its monetary value. It provides a crucial point of entry for understanding the stamp’s intended purpose, the significance attributed to Lucy Stone, and the broader historical context of its issuance. This multifaceted analysis enhances the stamp’s value for both historians and philatelists, solidifying its position as a significant historical artifact.
5. Philatelic Significance
Philatelic significance encompasses various factors that contribute to a stamp’s value and interest among collectors. The 1968 fifty-cent Lucy Stone stamp possesses notable philatelic significance due to its historical context, design elements, potential variations, and relative scarcity. Understanding these aspects provides valuable insights for collectors and enthusiasts.
- Historical Context:
Issued during a period of significant social and political change, the stamp reflects the growing recognition of women’s rights and the ongoing struggle for equality. This historical context adds depth and meaning to the stamp, making it a desirable item for collectors interested in social movements and American history. The stamp’s release during the rise of second-wave feminism further amplifies its historical relevance.
- Design and Production:
The stamp’s design, featuring a portrait of Lucy Stone based on a later-life photograph, contributes to its philatelic interest. Details like the engraving technique, printing process, and perforation type offer further points of analysis for collectors. Variations in these elements can create distinct versions of the stamp, increasing their collectibility and value. Knowledge of these variations allows collectors to identify and appreciate specific printings.
- Rarity and Condition:
The stamp’s relative scarcity, particularly in pristine condition, enhances its philatelic significance. Factors such as centering, gum condition (for unused examples), and the absence of flaws like tears or creases significantly impact a stamp’s value. Well-preserved examples command higher prices in the collector market due to their limited availability.
- Commemorative Nature:
As a commemorative issue, the stamp inherently holds greater philatelic interest than definitive stamps intended for everyday postage. Commemorative stamps often feature limited print runs and mark specific events or individuals, increasing their appeal to collectors seeking historically significant items. The Lucy Stone stamp, honoring a prominent suffragist, fits this category, further enhancing its desirability.
These facets of philatelic significance combine to make the 1968 fifty-cent Lucy Stone stamp a desirable item for collectors. Its historical context, design elements, potential variations, and relative scarcity contribute to its value and appeal within the philatelic community. Understanding these elements allows collectors to appreciate the stamp’s multifaceted significance and place within the broader history of postage and social reform.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the 1968 fifty-cent Lucy Stone commemorative stamp. The information provided aims to offer clear and concise answers for collectors, researchers, and individuals interested in learning more about this historical artifact.
Question 1: What is the historical significance of the Lucy Stone stamp?
The stamp commemorates Lucy Stone, a prominent 19th-century suffragist and abolitionist. Its issuance in 1968 coincided with the burgeoning second-wave feminist movement, highlighting Stone’s contributions to women’s rights and social reform.
Question 2: Why is the stamp’s denomination fifty cents?
The fifty-cent denomination was relatively high for a commemorative stamp in 1968. This higher value reflects the significance attributed to Stone and her legacy, distinguishing the stamp from lower-denomination issues.
Question 3: What are key factors affecting the stamp’s value for collectors?
Condition, centering, gum condition (if unused), and the presence of any flaws significantly impact a stamp’s value. Rarity, particularly in pristine condition, also plays a crucial role in determining market prices.
Question 4: Are there any known variations of the Lucy Stone stamp?
Variations can exist due to different plate numbers, printing errors, or other production factors. Collectors should consult specialized catalogs and resources to identify and understand these variations, as they can influence a stamp’s value.
Question 5: Where can one find more information about the stamp’s design and production?
Philatelic resources, such as stamp catalogs, online databases, and expert publications, offer detailed information about the stamp’s design, printing process, and technical specifications. Consulting these resources can provide valuable insights for collectors and researchers.
Question 6: How should one store the Lucy Stone stamp to preserve its condition?
Proper storage is essential for preserving a stamp’s condition. Acid-free albums, protective mounts, and controlled environments minimizing exposure to light, humidity, and temperature fluctuations are recommended.
Understanding these key aspects of the 1968 fifty-cent Lucy Stone stamp provides a foundation for further exploration of its historical and philatelic significance. Continued research and engagement with relevant resources can enhance one’s appreciation for this commemorative artifact.
This FAQ section has addressed common inquiries regarding the Lucy Stone stamp. Further exploration might delve into specific aspects of stamp collecting or Lucy Stone’s broader historical impact.
50 Cent Lucy Stone Stamp
Exploration of the 1968 fifty-cent Lucy Stone stamp reveals a multifaceted artifact encompassing historical, social, and philatelic significance. The stamp’s issuance commemorates a pivotal figure in the American women’s suffrage movement, recognizing Stone’s enduring contributions to the fight for equal rights. Analysis of the stamp’s denomination, design, and historical context illuminates its value within both philatelic collections and broader historical narratives. The stamp’s release during a period of significant social change further amplifies its importance, connecting Stone’s legacy to the ongoing pursuit of equality and justice.
The fifty-cent Lucy Stone stamp stands as a testament to the power of philately to encapsulate and convey historical narratives. This unassuming piece of postage transcends its utilitarian function to become a symbol of progress, resilience, and the enduring struggle for human rights. Continued examination of such artifacts offers invaluable insights into the past, informing present understanding and inspiring future generations to strive for a more just and equitable world. Preserving and studying these tangible pieces of history ensures that the legacies of individuals like Lucy Stone remain vibrant and continue to inform societal progress.
