The one-and-a-half cent George Washington stamp, issued in 1938 to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the Constitution’s signing, depicts a portrait of the first president based on the famous Athenaeum Portrait by Gilbert Stuart. This denomination was specifically chosen to meet the prevailing postal rate for postcards at the time.
This particular stamp holds significance for collectors due to its historical context and specific usage. While not exceptionally rare, it represents a tangible piece of American history, connecting philately with a pivotal moment in the nation’s development. The stamp’s design, featuring a prominent figure like Washington, further enhances its appeal. Understanding the rationale behind the chosen denomination provides valuable insight into the postal practices of the era.
Further exploration of this stamp can involve examining its production methods, variations, and current market value. Additionally, researching the broader context of 1938 postage rates and commemorative issues provides a deeper understanding of its place within American philatelic history.
Tips for Collecting and Evaluating the 1 Cent Washington Stamp
Careful consideration of several factors contributes to successful acquisition and appreciation of the 1 cent Washington stamp.
Tip 1: Condition Assessment: Examine the stamp for centering, perforations, and any signs of damage, such as tears, thin spots, or creases. Well-preserved examples command higher values.
Tip 2: Gum Evaluation: Original gum, if present, can significantly impact a stamp’s worth. Check for undisturbed, original gum, as regummed stamps are less desirable.
Tip 3: Identifying Variations: Be aware of potential variations in shade and perforation. These subtle differences can affect collectibility and price.
Tip 4: Researching Market Value: Consult stamp catalogs, online marketplaces, and auction records to understand the current market value for stamps in similar condition.
Tip 5: Proper Storage: Store stamps in archival-quality materials, such as acid-free albums and protective sleeves, to prevent deterioration.
Tip 6: Authentication: For high-value examples, consider obtaining a certificate of authenticity from a reputable philatelic expertizing service.
By adhering to these guidelines, collectors can make informed decisions, preserve their investments, and appreciate the historical significance embodied in these stamps.
Ultimately, a comprehensive understanding of condition, variations, and market dynamics allows for informed collecting practices and a deeper appreciation of this specific piece of philatelic history.
1. George Washington
The image of George Washington on the 1 cent stamp issued in 1938 directly links the stamp to the nation’s first president and, symbolically, to the founding principles of the United States. This connection enhances the stamp’s historical significance and contributes to its appeal among collectors.
- National Symbolism
Washington’s image serves as a powerful symbol of American identity, representing leadership, patriotism, and the struggle for independence. His presence on the stamp reinforces these values and connects a mundane postal item to a larger national narrative. This symbolism elevates the stamp beyond its utilitarian purpose.
- Historical Context
The 1938 issue date coincides with the 150th anniversary of the signing of the U.S. Constitution. Featuring Washington, who presided over the Constitutional Convention, underscores the historical context of the stamp and its commemorative intent. This strengthens the stamp’s association with a pivotal moment in American history.
- Philatelic Significance
The use of Washington’s image on numerous stamps throughout American history makes this particular issue part of a larger philatelic narrative. Collectors often seek stamps featuring prominent historical figures, and the 1 cent Washington stamp fulfills this desire. Its placement within this broader philatelic context adds to its desirability.
- Portrait Selection
The stamp utilizes the Athenaeum Portrait of Washington by Gilbert Stuart, a widely recognized and reproduced image. This familiar portrayal strengthens the visual connection to Washington and enhances the stamp’s immediate recognizability. The choice of a well-known portrait reinforces the stamp’s association with a respected historical figure.
The convergence of these facetsnational symbolism, historical context, philatelic significance, and portrait selectioncontributes to the 1 cent Washington stamp’s enduring appeal and its recognized place within American philatelic history. This seemingly small detail of Washington’s image significantly elevates a simple postage stamp to a symbolic representation of the nation’s heritage.
2. 150th Anniversary
The 1 cent Washington stamp issued in 1938 directly commemorates the 150th anniversary of the signing of the United States Constitution. This historical context is crucial to understanding the stamp’s significance. The anniversary provided the impetus for the stamp’s creation, linking a functional postal item to a pivotal moment in American history. The choice of George Washington, who presided over the Constitutional Convention, further strengthens this connection. Without the sesquicentennial, this specific stamp would likely not exist. Its design, denomination, and release date all converge to mark this important historical event.
Commemorative stamps serve as tangible reminders of significant historical events. The 1 cent Washington stamp exemplifies this, acting as a miniature historical marker accessible to the general public. Its circulation through the postal system ensured widespread exposure to the anniversary, promoting public awareness and remembrance. This commemorative function adds another layer of value beyond its purely postal usage. The stamp became a small, circulating piece of history, contributing to the collective memory of the nation.
Recognizing the link between the 150th anniversary and the 1 cent Washington stamp provides a deeper appreciation for its historical context. This understanding elevates the stamp from a simple postal artifact to a tangible representation of a significant historical milestone. Appreciating this connection allows collectors and historians alike to connect with the past in a tangible way, enriching their understanding of both American history and philately. The stamp serves as a lasting testament to the enduring importance of the Constitution and its impact on the nation’s development.
3. 1 Cent Denomination
The 1 cent denomination of the 1938 George Washington stamp directly relates to the prevailing postal rate for postcards at the time. This seemingly unusual denomination wasn’t arbitrary; it served a specific purpose within the postal system. Understanding this connection provides crucial context for appreciating the stamp’s historical significance.
- Postcard Rate
The 1 cent rate for postcards in 1938 dictated the stamp’s denomination. This demonstrates the practical considerations behind stamp production and their direct reflection of postal regulations. The stamp served a functional purpose, facilitating the sending of postcards at the established rate. This connection grounds the stamp within the everyday operations of the postal service.
- Cost-Effectiveness
Issuing a stamp specifically for the postcard rate streamlined postal operations. Rather than requiring multiple stamps or making change, a single 1 cent stamp simplified transactions for both postal workers and the public. This efficiency highlights the pragmatic approach to stamp denominations based on prevailing postal needs.
- Historical Postal Rates
The 1 cent denomination offers a glimpse into the historical evolution of postal rates. Comparing this rate to earlier and later postcard rates provides insight into the changing costs of postal services over time. This historical perspective underscores the stamp’s value as a primary source for understanding past postal practices.
- Collectibility
The unusual denomination contributes to the stamp’s collectibility. While not exceptionally rare, its specific purpose and limited timeframe of use make it a distinct item within philatelic collections. Collectors often seek stamps reflecting specific historical postal rates, adding to this stamp’s appeal.
Understanding the relationship between the 1 cent denomination and its purpose within the 1938 postal system provides critical context for appreciating the stamp’s historical and philatelic significance. This seemingly minor detail connects the stamp to broader historical trends in postal rates and practices, enriching its value for collectors and historians alike. It transforms a simple piece of postage into a tangible artifact reflecting the communication practices of a specific era.
4. Postcard Rate
The 1 cent Washington stamp, issued in 1938, owes its existence to the prevailing postcard rate of the era. This specific denomination directly corresponds to the cost of sending a postcard at that time. The connection represents a practical application of philately, reflecting how stamp denominations are often determined by postal regulations and the need to meet specific rates. Without the 1 cent postcard rate, this particular stamp wouldn’t have been necessary. It serves as a prime example of how postal needs drive stamp production and design.
Examining historical postal records reveals the prevalence of postcards in early 20th-century communication. Postcards offered an economical means of correspondence, particularly for brief messages. The designated 1 cent rate made them accessible to a wider public, fostering frequent use. The 1938 Washington stamp, therefore, facilitated this popular form of communication. Its release coincided with the ongoing demand for postcards, ensuring its immediate utility. The stamp represents a tangible link between postal policy and public communication practices.
Understanding this connection allows for a more nuanced appreciation of the 1 cent Washington stamp. It transcends mere philatelic interest, highlighting the practical considerations behind stamp creation. The stamp becomes more than a collectible item; it serves as a historical artifact reflecting communication trends and postal economics. Recognizing the influence of postcard rates on stamp denominations adds depth to philatelic research and contributes to a richer understanding of postal history. This insight allows one to appreciate the intersection of philately with the broader social and economic forces shaping communication practices.
5. 1938 Issue Date
The year 1938 holds specific relevance for the one-and-a-half cent Washington stamp. This year marks the 150th anniversary of the signing of the United States Constitution, the very event commemorated by the stamp’s issuance. This direct link between the issue date and the historical event provides crucial context. The stamp’s release in 1938 wasn’t arbitrary; it was a deliberate act tied to a significant moment in American history. Understanding this connection allows for a more complete appreciation of the stamp’s purpose and significance within the broader historical narrative. Commemorative stamps frequently coincide with anniversaries or significant dates, and this stamp exemplifies that practice. Its existence is inextricably linked to the historical context of 1938.
The 1938 issue date also places the stamp within a specific timeframe for postal rates and usage. Researching postal regulations and postcard rates from 1938 provides further insight into the stamp’s practical function. Historical context informs our understanding of not only why the stamp was issued but also how it was used. Examining contemporary postal documents and philatelic literature from 1938 can reveal valuable information about the stamp’s intended purpose and its role within the postal system of the time. This detailed historical perspective enhances the stamp’s significance beyond its face value.
Connecting the 1938 issue date to the broader context of the Constitution’s sesquicentennial celebration deepens understanding of the stamp’s historical significance. This seemingly simple detail of the issue date unlocks a wealth of information about the stamp’s purpose, usage, and place within both philatelic and American history. The 1938 date serves as a key for unlocking deeper layers of meaning and connecting this small artifact to larger historical narratives. Recognizing this interwoven relationship between a specific date and a seemingly mundane object provides a richer, more nuanced perspective on historical commemoration and the role of philately in preserving and transmitting historical memory.
6. Engraved Design
The 1 cent Washington stamp, issued in 1938, features an engraved design, a detail significant to its production, appearance, and historical context. Engraving, a traditional printing method involving intricate carving into a metal plate, offers a distinct level of detail and security, crucial for stamps. This technique produces sharp, crisp lines and subtle shading, resulting in a high-quality image resistant to counterfeiting. The engraved portrait of Washington, based on the Athenaeum Portrait by Gilbert Stuart, benefits from this precision, capturing nuanced details of the subject’s likeness and attire. Compared to other printing methods prevalent in the 1930s, such as lithography or typography, engraving provided superior image quality and security, aligning with the standards expected of official government-issued postage.
The choice of engraving reflects the Bureau of Engraving and Printing’s established practices. Historically, engraving served as the primary method for security printing, including banknotes and stamps. The 1 cent Washington stamp exemplifies this tradition. The engraved design contributes to the stamp’s perceived value and authenticity, both for contemporary users and modern collectors. Examples of counterfeit stamps from the era highlight the effectiveness of engraving as a deterrent. The intricate detail inherent in engraved designs makes replication difficult, safeguarding the integrity of postage and preventing fraud. The 1 cent Washington stamp, therefore, benefits from this established security measure.
Appreciating the engraved design of the 1 cent Washington stamp provides deeper insight into the production methods and security concerns surrounding stamp production in 1938. This understanding enhances the stamp’s value beyond its face value, linking it to the history of printing and security practices. The choice of engraving speaks to the standards of the era and the importance placed on preventing counterfeiting. Recognizing the connection between the engraved design and these broader historical contexts elevates the stamp from a simple postal item to a tangible artifact reflecting the technological and security considerations of its time.
7. Philatelic Importance
Philatelic importance encompasses the factors that contribute to a stamp’s value and desirability among collectors. The 1 cent Washington stamp, while not exceptionally rare, possesses attributes that enhance its philatelic interest. Examining these attributes provides a framework for understanding its place within stamp collecting.
- Historical Context
Issued in 1938 to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the Constitution, the stamp carries historical weight. This association with a significant event in American history adds to its appeal for collectors interested in historical themes. The stamp becomes a tangible link to the past, offering a connection to the nation’s founding principles and the evolution of its governance.
- Postcard Rate Significance
The 1 cent denomination reflects the contemporary postcard rate. Stamps tied to specific postal rates offer insight into historical postal practices and provide a tangible representation of past communication costs. Collectors often focus on stamps representing specific rates, making this stamp a desirable addition to rate-based collections.
- Design and Production
The engraved portrait of George Washington, based on the well-known Athenaeum Portrait by Gilbert Stuart, contributes to the stamp’s aesthetic appeal. The choice of engraving, a traditional and secure printing method, reflects the standards of the era. The stamp’s visual appeal and quality of production enhance its desirability among collectors who appreciate fine engraving and historical printing techniques.
- Collectibility Within Larger Sets
The stamp’s position within the Presidential series and the broader context of 1930s US postage creates opportunities for thematic collecting. Collectors seeking to assemble complete sets or focus on specific periods of American philately will find this stamp a relevant inclusion. Its placement within these broader collecting frameworks enhances its overall value and desirability.
These interconnected facets contribute to the 1 cent Washington stamp’s philatelic importance. While not a key rarity, its historical context, postcard rate connection, design elements, and placement within larger sets combine to make it an interesting and worthwhile addition to many collections. The stamp represents more than just postage; it embodies a specific moment in American history, postal practices, and printing techniques, making it a valuable piece of philatelic history.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the 1 cent George Washington stamp issued in 1938.
Question 1: Why was a 1 cent stamp issued?
The 1 cent denomination corresponded to the postcard rate in 1938, allowing for efficient single-stamp postage.
Question 2: What is the significance of the 1938 issue date?
1938 marked the 150th anniversary of the signing of the U.S. Constitution, the event commemorated by the stamp.
Question 3: Why does the stamp depict George Washington?
Washington presided over the Constitutional Convention, making his image a fitting choice for the commemorative issue.
Question 4: How can one determine the value of this stamp?
Value depends on condition, centering, and the presence of original gum. Consulting stamp catalogs or expert appraisers is recommended.
Question 5: Are there any notable variations of this stamp?
Variations exist regarding perforation and shade, potentially impacting value. Specialized catalogs can assist in identification.
Question 6: Where can one acquire this stamp for a collection?
Stamp dealers, online marketplaces, and auctions represent potential sources for acquiring this stamp.
Careful consideration of condition and authenticity remains paramount when acquiring any stamp for a collection.
Further research into specific aspects of this stamp can yield a deeper understanding of its historical and philatelic significance.
The One-and-a-Half Cent Washington Stamp
Exploration of the one-and-a-half cent Washington stamp reveals its multifaceted significance. Issued in 1938 to commemorate the sesquicentennial of the U.S. Constitution, the stamp’s denomination reflects the then-current postcard rate. The choice of George Washington’s portrait, based on the Athenaeum Portrait by Gilbert Stuart, connects the stamp to a pivotal figure in American history. The engraved design demonstrates the production standards and security concerns of the era. Understanding the stamp’s historical context, intended purpose, and production methods provides a richer appreciation for its place within philately.
The one-and-a-half cent Washington stamp stands as a tangible representation of a specific moment in American history and postal practices. Further research into the stamp’s variations, usage patterns, and contemporary postal regulations can deepen understanding of its historical and philatelic importance. Continued exploration of such seemingly small artifacts provides valuable insights into broader historical narratives and the enduring power of philately to connect the past with the present.
