The 1968 American postage stamp commemorating the iconic animator and entrepreneur featured his portrait and was valued at six cents. This relatively low denomination suggests its intended use for standard letter mail within the United States at the time.
This commemorative piece of postal history reflects the cultural impact of Walt Disney’s contributions to entertainment and animation. It served not only as postage but also as a miniature tribute accessible to the general public. Its release likely coincided with a significant anniversary or event related to Disney’s life or company, further solidifying his place in American popular culture. Such stamps often become collectible items, appreciated for their historical significance and connection to a beloved figure.
Further exploration into this topic might encompass aspects of stamp collecting, American postal history of the late 1960s, or the broader influence of Walt Disney on society. Examining similar commemorative stamps issued during the same period could provide valuable context and comparisons.
Tips for Collectors of the 1968 Six-Cent Walt Disney Commemorative Stamp
Acquiring and preserving the 1968 six-cent Walt Disney commemorative stamp requires careful consideration. These guidelines offer practical advice for collectors.
Tip 1: Condition is Key: Prioritize stamps in pristine condition. Look for vibrant colors, sharp corners, and a clean, undamaged surface. Mint condition examples, ideally still affixed to their original backing paper, are highly desirable.
Tip 2: Beware of Counterfeits: Reproductions exist. Consult reputable stamp dealers or authenticators to verify a stamp’s genuineness before purchasing.
Tip 3: Proper Storage Matters: Protect stamps from humidity, light, and temperature fluctuations. Archival-quality stamp albums and mounts prevent deterioration.
Tip 4: Research Market Value: Consult stamp catalogs, online marketplaces, and auction records to understand the current market value. Factors affecting value include condition, rarity, and demand.
Tip 5: Seek Expert Advice: Joining philatelic societies or consulting with experienced collectors can provide valuable insights and guidance.
Tip 6: Patience is a Virtue: Building a valuable collection takes time and dedication. Don’t rush the process. Carefully consider each acquisition.
Adhering to these tips can assist in building a collection that retains its value and offers historical and cultural significance.
By understanding the nuances of collecting this specific stamp, one gains a deeper appreciation for postal history and the legacy of Walt Disney.
1. Commemorative Issue
The designation “Commemorative Issue” is crucial to understanding the 1968 six-cent Walt Disney stamp. Unlike definitive stamps issued for everyday postal use, commemorative stamps celebrate specific individuals, events, or anniversaries. This distinction elevates the Disney stamp beyond its functional purpose, imbuing it with historical and cultural significance. The decision to honor Walt Disney with a commemorative stamp reflects his recognized contribution to American entertainment and animation. This official recognition transformed a simple piece of postage into a miniature work of art and a lasting tribute. Other examples of commemorative stamps from the same era include those honoring historical figures, significant anniversaries, or important scientific achievements, underscoring the practice of using postage to celebrate national heritage and accomplishments.
The commemorative nature of this stamp also directly impacts its collectibility. While definitive stamps are primarily valued for their postal utility, commemorative issues often become sought-after collectibles. Factors influencing their value include the historical significance of the subject, the limited production runs typical of commemorative issues, and the overall condition of the stamp. The Walt Disney stamp, given its subject’s enduring popularity, tends to command higher prices than comparable definitive stamps from the same period. This increased value underscores the importance of proper storage and preservation for collectors.
Understanding the significance of “Commemorative Issue” provides a framework for appreciating the Walt Disney stamp’s broader context. It underscores the deliberate choice to honor a specific individual and the stamp’s consequent transformation from a utilitarian object into a piece of cultural history. Recognizing this distinction allows collectors and historians alike to appreciate the stamp’s value beyond its original postal function.
2. 1968 Release
The 1968 release date of the Walt Disney six-cent commemorative stamp provides crucial historical context. This year offers insights into the stamp’s creation and its significance within the broader cultural landscape of the time.
- Social and Political Climate:
1968 was a turbulent year marked by social and political upheaval in the United States. The Vietnam War, the Civil Rights Movement, and the assassinations of Martin Luther King Jr. and Robert F. Kennedy shaped the national mood. The release of a commemorative stamp honoring a figure associated with entertainment and childhood nostalgia might be interpreted as a form of escapism or a reminder of simpler times amidst national turmoil.
- Postal Rates and Usage:
The six-cent denomination reflects the standard first-class postage rate for a one-ounce letter in 1968. Analyzing postal rates and mail volume during this period provides context for the stamp’s intended use and its potential reach within the population. This data offers insight into the stamp’s practical function beyond its commemorative purpose.
- Disney’s Legacy and Influence:
Walt Disney had passed away in 1966. The 1968 stamp release can be viewed as part of his posthumous legacy and the ongoing impact of his work. Examining Disney’s influence on American culture in the years leading up to and following the stamp’s release provides deeper understanding of the stamp’s significance.
- Contemporary Commemorative Stamps:
Analyzing other commemorative stamps issued in 1968 offers comparative context. Themes and subjects depicted on these stamps reflect broader national priorities and interests of the time. This comparison illuminates the rationale behind selecting Walt Disney as a subject for commemoration and reveals his perceived importance within the national consciousness.
Understanding the historical backdrop of 1968 enriches appreciation of the Walt Disney stamp. It moves beyond a mere collectible and becomes a reflection of the social, political, and cultural forces shaping the era. This contextual awareness allows for a deeper interpretation of the stamp’s significance and its enduring legacy.
3. Six-Cent Denomination
The six-cent denomination of the 1968 Walt Disney commemorative stamp provides a crucial link to the postal rates of the era. Understanding this seemingly minor detail unlocks valuable insights into the stamp’s intended use, its historical context, and its relationship to broader economic trends.
- Standard First-Class Postage:
Six cents represented the standard first-class postage rate for a one-ounce letter within the United States in 1968. This fact establishes the stamp’s primary function: enabling the delivery of everyday correspondence. The Disney stamp, despite its commemorative nature, served a practical purpose alongside millions of other stamps facilitating communication across the country.
- Affordability and Accessibility:
The relatively low denomination suggests widespread accessibility. Six cents in 1968 represented a modest cost, placing the stamp within reach of the average citizen. This affordability contributed to the stamp’s potential for broad circulation and increased its visibility as a tribute to Walt Disney.
- Reflecting Economic Conditions:
Postal rates often reflect broader economic trends. Analyzing the six-cent rate in the context of 1968 inflation and economic conditions provides insights into the cost of living and the value of currency during that period. This perspective adds depth to understanding the stamp’s place within the economic landscape of its time.
- Comparison with Other Denominations:
Comparing the six-cent rate with other contemporary postal denominations reveals the hierarchy of mail classes and services. Higher denominations might have been required for heavier letters, packages, or expedited delivery. This comparison illustrates the Disney stamp’s position within the postal system and its designated use for standard letter mail.
The six-cent denomination of the Walt Disney stamp offers a multifaceted lens through which to analyze its significance. It connects the stamp to the practicalities of postal operations, the economic realities of 1968, and the accessibility of commemorating a beloved figure. This detail, seemingly insignificant, provides valuable context for understanding the stamp’s role within American history and culture.
4. Walt Disney Portrait
The inclusion of Walt Disney’s portrait on the 1968 six-cent commemorative stamp is integral to its meaning and value. The portrait transforms the stamp from a simple piece of postage into a recognizable tribute to a significant cultural figure. This deliberate design choice elevates the stamp’s significance beyond its functional purpose, turning it into a miniature, widely circulated piece of Disney memorabilia. The portrait itself likely contributed to the stamp’s popularity among collectors and the general public, solidifying its place within philatelic history and Disneyana. Consider, for example, other commemorative stamps featuring portraits of prominent individuals. These stamps often become highly collectible, particularly when the subject holds widespread recognition and cultural impact. The use of a portrait directly links the stamp to the individual being honored, creating a tangible connection between the physical object and the historical figure.
The specific depiction of Disney in the portrait also warrants analysis. The chosen image likely reflects a conscious effort to convey a particular aspect of his personality or legacy. A formal portrait might emphasize his role as a business leader and innovator, while a more informal image could highlight his creative spirit and connection to the world of animation. This careful selection of imagery influences public perception and contributes to the stamp’s overall message. Further research into the specific image used and its origins could provide additional insights into the stamp’s design and intended meaning. Comparing this portrait to other depictions of Disney from the same period could reveal how the stamp designers sought to represent him to the public.
In summary, the inclusion of Walt Disney’s portrait on the six-cent stamp is crucial to understanding its historical and cultural significance. The portrait establishes a direct link to a beloved figure, enhances the stamp’s collectibility, and conveys a specific message about Disney’s legacy. Recognizing the importance of this design element allows for a deeper appreciation of the stamp’s purpose and its enduring appeal. Challenges in researching this topic might include identifying the original source of the portrait and determining the specific artistic choices made in its adaptation for the stamp format. However, overcoming these challenges can yield valuable insights into the creation and reception of this iconic piece of postal history.
5. Philatelic Importance
The philatelic importance of the 1968 six-cent Walt Disney commemorative stamp stems from a confluence of factors that elevate it beyond a mere postage item. Its commemorative nature, honoring a significant cultural figure, immediately distinguishes it from definitive issues intended for everyday mail. This distinction contributes to its desirability among collectors. The relatively low denomination, while reflecting standard letter rates of the era, also ensured broader circulation, increasing its potential historical significance. Furthermore, the stamp’s age places it within a specific historical context, adding another layer of interest for philatelists. Similar commemorative stamps from this period, particularly those honoring prominent individuals or significant events, often become key components of collections focused on specific themes or historical periods. One might consider, for example, the commemorative stamps issued to mark the Apollo 11 moon landing in the same year. These stamps, like the Disney issue, hold significant historical and cultural value, demonstrating how philatelic importance can be linked to broader historical narratives.
The stamp’s connection to Walt Disney significantly enhances its philatelic importance. Disney’s enduring legacy in entertainment and animation contributes to the stamp’s desirability among collectors of Disneyana, as well as philatelists. This intersection of interests broadens the potential market and often leads to increased value over time. The stamp becomes more than a postal artifact; it transforms into a tangible piece of Disney history, appealing to a wider audience than traditional stamp collectors. This phenomenon can be observed with other stamps featuring popular cultural figures, such as Elvis Presley or Marilyn Monroe, where the subject’s fame amplifies the stamp’s collectibility and value. The condition of the stamp plays a crucial role in determining its philatelic importance. Well-preserved examples, particularly those in mint condition, command higher prices and are more sought after by serious collectors. Damage, fading, or other imperfections can significantly diminish a stamp’s value and desirability within the philatelic market.
Understanding the philatelic importance of the Walt Disney stamp requires considering its historical context, its connection to a significant cultural figure, its condition, and its relative scarcity. Challenges in assessing philatelic importance can include accurately determining a stamp’s condition, verifying its authenticity, and navigating the complexities of the stamp market. However, these challenges underscore the importance of careful research and consultation with experienced philatelists. The stamp’s enduring appeal and its connection to broader cultural and historical trends solidify its position as a significant piece of postal history, attracting collectors and enthusiasts for generations to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the 1968 six-cent Walt Disney commemorative stamp.
Question 1: What makes this stamp commemorative?
Commemorative stamps are issued to honor specific individuals, events, or anniversaries, unlike definitive stamps used for everyday postage. This stamp celebrates Walt Disney’s contributions to American entertainment and animation.
Question 2: Why was it issued in 1968?
While the specific rationale for the 1968 release date requires further research, it likely coincided with a significant Disney-related anniversary or event. The timing also places the stamp within the specific historical context of 1968.
Question 3: What does the six-cent denomination signify?
Six cents represented the standard first-class postage rate for a one-ounce letter in the United States in 1968. This reflects the stamp’s intended use for everyday mail.
Question 4: Why is Walt Disney’s portrait on the stamp?
The portrait serves as a visual tribute to Walt Disney. It transforms the stamp into a miniature piece of Disney memorabilia, increasing its appeal to collectors and the general public. The specific image chosen likely reflects a deliberate attempt to convey a particular aspect of Disney’s persona and legacy.
Question 5: What factors influence the stamp’s value?
Condition, rarity, and demand primarily determine the stamp’s market value. Mint condition examples are typically more valuable than used or damaged ones. The enduring popularity of Walt Disney also contributes to the stamp’s desirability and potential for appreciation in value.
Question 6: Where can one acquire this stamp?
Reputable stamp dealers, online marketplaces, and auctions offer potential avenues for acquiring this stamp. Due diligence is recommended to ensure authenticity and assess condition before purchase. Consulting with experienced collectors or philatelic societies can provide valuable guidance.
Understanding these key aspects provides a foundation for appreciating the historical, cultural, and philatelic significance of this commemorative stamp.
Further exploration might delve into specific aspects of stamp collecting, postal history, or the broader impact of Walt Disney’s legacy.
Conclusion
Exploration of the 1968 six-cent Walt Disney commemorative stamp reveals a confluence of historical, cultural, and philatelic significance. Its commemorative nature, honoring a pivotal figure in American entertainment, distinguishes it from standard postage. Issued during a turbulent year, its widespread circulation due to the accessible denomination further underscores its historical context. The chosen portrait of Walt Disney transforms the stamp into a miniature work of art and a tangible piece of Disney history. Analysis of its philatelic importance demonstrates the stamp’s appeal to both collectors and enthusiasts, highlighting the interplay between condition, rarity, and demand in determining its value.
The stamp serves as a lasting tribute to Walt Disney’s enduring legacy and offers a glimpse into the cultural landscape of 1968 America. Continued examination of such artifacts provides valuable insights into the intersection of history, art, and popular culture. Preserving these tangible links to the past ensures future generations can appreciate the rich tapestry of human experience.
