This specific postage stamp, issued in 1952, depicts Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr., a celebrated American physician, poet, and polymath. The denomination reflects the first-class postage rate at the time of issue. Part of the Liberty Issue series, the stamp features a portrait of Holmes based on a painting by artist Charles Noel Flagg.
The stamp served not only a practical postal function but also commemorated a significant figure in American intellectual and literary history. Holmes’s contributions to medicine, literature, and public discourse made him a fitting subject for national recognition. The stamp’s release likely contributed to public awareness and appreciation of Holmes’s legacy. Philatelically, it represents a specific period in American postal history and holds value for collectors.
Further exploration of this topic could include examining the design and production process of the stamp, analyzing its place within the larger Liberty Issue series, or delving deeper into Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr.’s life and achievements. The stamp serves as a tangible link to the past, offering a starting point for understanding both postal history and the cultural landscape of mid-20th century America.
Tips for Collectors of the 1952 Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr. Stamp
Careful consideration of several factors can significantly enhance one’s approach to collecting this historically significant stamp.
Tip 1: Condition Assessment: Examine the stamp carefully for any imperfections, such as tears, creases, or thin spots. Centering, the position of the printed image within the perforated border, is also a crucial factor affecting value.
Tip 2: Gum Condition: Stamps with original, undisturbed gum are generally more desirable to collectors. Check for hinging remnants or regumming, which can detract from value.
Tip 3: Plate Blocks: Collecting complete plate blocks, which include the marginal markings from the printing plate, can add significant value and provide insights into the stamp’s production.
Tip 4: First Day Covers: Envelopes bearing the stamp postmarked on its first day of issue are highly collectible and offer a glimpse into postal history.
Tip 5: Research and Authentication: Consulting reputable philatelic resources, such as stamp catalogs and expert opinions, is crucial for accurate identification and valuation. Authentication by a recognized philatelic society can provide added assurance.
Tip 6: Proper Storage: Store stamps in acid-free albums or mounts, away from direct sunlight, moisture, and extreme temperatures, to preserve their condition.
By focusing on these key aspects, collectors can build a meaningful and potentially valuable collection of this commemorative stamp. These considerations offer a framework for informed decision-making within the specialized field of philately.
These tips highlight the importance of careful observation and research in stamp collecting, underscoring the value of preserving these historical artifacts.
1. Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr.
Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr.’s multifaceted career as a physician, poet, and public intellectual led to his commemoration on the 15-cent stamp issued in 1952. The stamp, part of the Liberty Issue series, serves as a tangible recognition of Holmes’s significant contributions to American society. The decision to feature Holmes reflects a broader cultural appreciation for his work and enduring legacy. The stamp itself became a vehicle for disseminating his image and, by extension, perpetuating his influence. For example, countless individuals encountered Holmes’s likeness through everyday postal transactions, fostering a sense of familiarity with a prominent figure in national history.
This connection between the individual and the stamp underscores the power of visual representation in shaping public memory. Holmes’s image on the stamp solidified his place within the American historical narrative, reinforcing his importance for subsequent generations. Furthermore, the stamp’s existence provides a concrete example of how historical figures are selected for commemoration and how such decisions contribute to shaping cultural understanding. The stamp serves as a primary source, offering insights into the values and priorities of the era in which it was issued. Analyzing the stamp within its historical context reveals the significance attributed to individuals like Holmes in shaping the nation’s intellectual and cultural identity.
The 15-cent Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr. stamp stands as a testament to the individual’s enduring impact. The stamp transcended its purely functional role and became a symbol of remembrance, sparking curiosity and further exploration of Holmes’s life and accomplishments. This case study highlights the interplay between individual achievement and public recognition, emphasizing the role of commemorative objects in shaping historical understanding. Studying such objects allows for a deeper appreciation of how historical narratives are constructed and maintained over time.
2. 1952 Liberty Issue
The 15-cent Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr. stamp constitutes a component of the broader 1952 Liberty Issue, a series of stamps released to celebrate prominent figures in American history. This placement within the Liberty Issue provides crucial context for understanding the stamp’s significance. The series aimed to promote national heritage and values through depictions of individuals who contributed significantly to the nation’s development. Holmes, a renowned physician, poet, and polymath, fit seamlessly within this thematic framework. The Liberty Issue, therefore, provides a framework for interpreting individual stamps like the Holmes stamp. It links the individual commemoration to a larger national narrative, emphasizing the collective contributions of notable figures throughout American history. Other stamps in the series featured individuals such as George Washington Carver and Susan B. Anthony, further illustrating the diverse representation intended by the Liberty Issue.
The association with the Liberty Issue also impacts the stamp’s collectibility. Collectors often seek to acquire complete sets of a given issue, increasing demand for individual stamps like the Holmes stamp. The thematic coherence of the Liberty Issue strengthens its appeal within the philatelic community, enhancing the value and desirability of its constituent stamps. Moreover, understanding the Liberty Issue’s historical context provides collectors with a deeper appreciation for the individual stamps. It allows them to connect specific individuals to the broader historical currents and national values represented by the series. For example, the issuance of the Liberty Issue during the Cold War era suggests a possible intention to reinforce national identity and celebrate American achievements in contrast to other ideological systems. This nuanced understanding adds depth and complexity to the act of collecting and studying these stamps.
In summary, the 1952 Liberty Issue serves as an essential framework for interpreting and appreciating the 15-cent Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr. stamp. It connects the individual commemoration to a larger national narrative and influences the stamp’s collectibility. Recognizing this connection provides a deeper understanding of the stamp’s historical context and its significance within American philately and cultural history. Further research into the Liberty Issue as a whole can offer valuable insights into the cultural and political climate of the mid-20th century.
3. Fifteen-cent denomination
The fifteen-cent denomination of the 1952 Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr. stamp provides crucial insight into the postal rates and economic context of the mid-20th century. This seemingly minor detail offers a window into broader historical trends and underscores the stamp’s value as a primary source for understanding past practices.
- First-Class Postage Rate
The fifteen-cent denomination directly reflects the first-class postage rate in 1952. This rate applied to standard letters and correspondence, making the Holmes stamp a common sight on mail within the United States. Examining postal rate fluctuations over time reveals trends in economic conditions and communication practices. The Holmes stamp serves as a tangible representation of this specific point in postal history.
- Purchasing Power
Fifteen cents in 1952 held a different purchasing power than it does today. Understanding this difference allows for a more nuanced appreciation of the stamp’s historical context. Comparing the cost of other goods and services in 1952 to their present-day equivalents provides insight into the relative value of the stamp and its affordability within the broader economic landscape.
- Printing and Production Costs
The cost of designing, printing, and distributing the Holmes stamp, while not explicitly reflected in its face value, is an important consideration. Researching the production processes and materials used in creating the stamp can illuminate the economic aspects of stamp production. This information adds another layer to understanding the stamp’s value beyond its denomination.
- Philatelic Value
While the original face value was fifteen cents, the stamp’s current worth to collectors can fluctuate considerably. Factors such as condition, rarity, and demand influence a stamp’s philatelic value, often exceeding its original denomination. The Holmes stamp’s value as a collectible item demonstrates the interplay between historical significance and market forces within the field of philately.
In conclusion, the fifteen-cent denomination of the Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr. stamp is more than a simple numerical value. It represents a specific point in postal and economic history, offering insights into past practices and purchasing power. Furthermore, its connection to first-class postage highlights the stamp’s widespread usage in everyday communication. By considering the denomination within these broader contexts, one gains a deeper appreciation for the stamp’s historical significance and its value as a collectible item. This seemingly minor detail offers a tangible link to the past and a starting point for further exploration of mid-20th century America.
4. Postal Usage
The 15-cent Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr. stamp, issued in 1952, served a primary function: facilitating the delivery of mail. This practical purpose connected the stamp directly to the postal system and the everyday lives of individuals. Its fifteen-cent denomination corresponded to the first-class postage rate at the time, making it a ubiquitous presence on letters and correspondence across the United States. This widespread usage underscores the stamp’s role in communication networks and its contribution to the efficient functioning of the postal service. One can imagine countless letters, bills, and personal notes bearing the Holmes stamp, traversing the country and connecting individuals and communities. This direct link to postal operations distinguishes the stamp from purely commemorative or decorative items.
The stamp’s postal usage also contributed to its historical significance. The sheer volume of mail processed using the Holmes stamp ensured its widespread distribution and recognition. This familiarity solidified its place in public consciousness, associating Holmes’s image with everyday postal transactions. Consequently, the stamp became more than just a means of paying postage; it served as a constant reminder of a prominent figure in American intellectual and literary history. Each cancellation mark, each postmark on a Holmes stamp, testifies to its active participation in the postal system and its journey through time. These markings transform the stamp into a miniature historical document, tracing its path and providing glimpses into the logistical operations of the postal service.
Understanding the postal usage of the Holmes stamp provides a crucial link between the object itself and its broader historical context. It underscores the stamp’s practical function within the communication systems of the mid-20th century and highlights its role in shaping public perception of Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr. Further investigation into postal records and practices of the period could reveal additional insights into the stamp’s distribution, usage patterns, and overall impact on communication networks. This practical dimension adds another layer to the stamp’s significance, transforming it from a static artifact into a dynamic element within the historical narrative of American communication and cultural memory.
5. Collectible Item
The 1952 15-cent Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr. stamp transcends its utilitarian origins as postage and holds significant value as a collectible item. This transformation from practical tool to sought-after artifact stems from several factors. The stamp’s association with a prominent historical figure, its inclusion within the Liberty Issue series, and its representation of a specific period in postal history all contribute to its collectibility. Furthermore, condition, rarity (determined by factors such as printing variations and errors), and demand within the philatelic market influence its desirability and monetary value. A well-preserved, centered stamp with original gum can command a higher price than a damaged or heavily postmarked example. Collectors often seek specific varieties, such as plate blocks or first-day covers, further driving demand and influencing market prices. The stamp’s collectibility reflects its transition from a functional object to a historical artifact imbued with cultural and monetary value.
The stamp’s value as a collectible item extends beyond its monetary worth. It serves as a tangible link to the past, offering collectors a connection to historical figures, events, and cultural trends. Collectors often specialize in particular themes or periods, using stamps to build curated collections that reflect their interests. The Holmes stamp, for instance, might find its place within collections focused on American literature, medical history, or mid-20th century Americana. The act of collecting, cataloging, and researching these items fosters a deeper engagement with history and encourages ongoing learning. Participating in philatelic societies and exhibitions provides opportunities for collectors to share their knowledge and contribute to the preservation of postal history. The Holmes stamp, in this context, becomes more than just a collectible; it transforms into a focal point for historical inquiry and community engagement.
In summary, the 15-cent Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr. stamps status as a collectible item underscores its multifaceted significance. Its value derives not only from market forces but also from its historical context and its ability to connect individuals with the past. The stamp serves as a tangible representation of a specific moment in time, encapsulating cultural values, postal practices, and individual achievement within a small, yet powerful, artifact. Understanding the forces driving its collectibility provides valuable insights into the interplay between history, culture, and the enduring appeal of philately. Further research into stamp collecting practices and market trends can illuminate the broader cultural significance of these seemingly small objects.
6. Historical Artifact
The 15-cent Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr. stamp serves as a tangible historical artifact, offering insights into various aspects of mid-20th century America. Its significance extends beyond its face value, providing a window into cultural values, postal practices, and economic conditions of the era. Examining the stamp through the lens of a historical artifact reveals its multifaceted nature and its contribution to understanding the past.
- Material Culture
The stamp’s physical properties, such as the paper type, ink composition, and printing method, reflect the material culture of the 1950s. Analyzing these elements can reveal information about technological advancements and resource availability during that period. The stamp’s design and production techniques provide tangible evidence of manufacturing processes and artistic styles prevalent at the time. For instance, the engraved printing method used for the Holmes stamp reflects a standard practice for security and aesthetic purposes.
- Cultural Values
The decision to commemorate Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr. on a postage stamp reflects the cultural values of the mid-20th century. Holmes’s prominence as a physician, poet, and public intellectual suggests a societal emphasis on intellectual pursuits and literary achievement. The stamp’s inclusion within the Liberty Issue series further contextualizes its significance, highlighting the nation’s focus on celebrating key figures in its history. This selection process reveals the individuals and accomplishments deemed worthy of national recognition.
- Postal History
The stamp’s denomination, usage patterns, and cancellation marks offer valuable data for understanding postal history. The fifteen-cent value represents the first-class postage rate in 1952, providing insight into the cost of mailing letters and the economic context of postal services. Postmarks and cancellation marks on used stamps document their journey through the postal system, offering clues about mail routes and processing procedures. These markings transform the stamp into a miniature historical record of its usage.
- Economic Context
The stamp’s production costs, distribution methods, and eventual collectibility reflect broader economic trends. Analyzing the resources allocated to stamp production and the market forces influencing its value as a collectible item provide economic insights. Fluctuations in stamp prices over time can mirror broader economic shifts and collector demand. The stamp’s value as a collectible item illustrates the intersection of historical significance and market dynamics.
By examining the 15-cent Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr. stamp as a historical artifact, one gains a deeper appreciation for its multifaceted significance. It transcends its functional purpose as postage and becomes a primary source for understanding the cultural, social, and economic landscape of mid-20th century America. This holistic approach reveals the stamp’s value as a tangible piece of history, offering insights into a specific era and its enduring legacy. Further research into related areas such as material culture studies, postal history, and economic history can enhance this understanding and reveal further connections between seemingly small objects and larger historical narratives.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the 1952 15-cent Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr. stamp, providing concise and informative responses.
Question 1: What is the significance of the 15-cent denomination?
The fifteen-cent denomination represents the first-class postage rate in the United States in 1952. This rate applied to standard letters and correspondence, making the Holmes stamp a common sight on mail within the country.
Question 2: Why was Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr. chosen for this stamp?
Holmes’s selection reflects his prominence as a physician, poet, and public intellectual. His contributions to American literature, medicine, and public discourse made him a fitting subject for national recognition within the Liberty Issue series.
Question 3: What is the Liberty Issue?
The Liberty Issue is a series of postage stamps released in 1952 featuring prominent figures in American history. The series aimed to celebrate individuals who made significant contributions to the nation’s development and cultural heritage.
Question 4: How can one determine the value of a Holmes stamp?
Several factors influence a stamp’s value, including condition, centering, gum condition, and the presence of any variations or errors. Consulting stamp catalogs, expert opinions, and reputable philatelic resources can provide accurate valuations.
Question 5: Where can one find these stamps for purchase or sale?
Stamp dealers, online marketplaces, auctions, and philatelic societies offer avenues for acquiring or selling these stamps. Researching reputable sources is crucial to ensure authenticity and fair pricing.
Question 6: How should one store these stamps to preserve their condition?
Storing stamps in acid-free albums or mounts, away from direct sunlight, moisture, and extreme temperatures helps maintain their condition and prevent deterioration over time.
Understanding these key aspects enhances appreciation for the historical and philatelic significance of the 1952 15-cent Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr. stamp. Careful research and informed collecting practices contribute to the preservation of these historical artifacts.
For further exploration, consider researching specific aspects of stamp collecting, such as condition assessment, grading standards, and specialized collecting areas.
15-Cent Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr. Stamp
Exploration of the 15-cent Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr. stamp reveals its multifaceted significance. Issued in 1952 as part of the Liberty Issue, this small artifact offers a tangible connection to American history and culture. Its denomination reflects the postal rates of the time, while its subject commemorates a prominent figure in literature and medicine. The stamps journey from practical postal tool to collectible item underscores its enduring value within philately and its ability to connect individuals with the past. Analysis of its design, production, and usage patterns provides insights into the cultural, social, and economic landscape of mid-20th century America. The stamp’s presence in collections worldwide testifies to its enduring appeal among philatelists and its importance as a historical artifact.
The 15-cent Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr. stamp serves as a reminder of the power of small objects to encapsulate larger historical narratives. Continued research and appreciation for such artifacts contribute to a deeper understanding of the past and the individuals who shaped it. Preserving these tangible links to history ensures that future generations can connect with and learn from the rich tapestry of human experience. Further exploration of related historical materials, such as postal records, biographical information, and cultural artifacts of the period, promises to enrich understanding of this unassuming yet significant piece of American history.
