The 1967-1974 five-cent definitive postage stamp, depicting the first President of the United States and issued in a deep blue shade, represents a specific and recognizable piece of American philatelic history. This design, featuring a portrait based on Jean-Antoine Houdon’s bust of Washington, was part of the Prominent Americans series. Examples can be found with plate number blocks, different types of cancellation marks, and varying degrees of centering, all of which influence their value to collectors.
This particular stamp offers a tangible connection to a specific period in American history. Its relatively common availability makes it an accessible entry point for new collectors, while the nuances of its printing and variations provide deeper exploration for more experienced philatelists. It serves as a reminder of both the historical figure depicted and the postal system’s role in communication during that era. The shift in stamp production and design over time makes studying such issues insightful for understanding evolving printing techniques and aesthetic trends.
This resource explores various aspects of this five-cent Washington definitive, including its production details, design evolution, notable varieties, and factors influencing its value. Further sections will delve into specific examples, offer guidance on identification and authentication, and provide resources for collectors seeking to acquire or learn more about this small but significant piece of American history.
Collecting Tips
Careful consideration of several factors contributes to successful acquisition and preservation of philatelic items like the 1967-1974 five-cent Washington definitive.
Tip 1: Condition Assessment: Evaluate centering, gum condition, and the presence of any flaws such as tears, creases, or thin spots. Well-centered examples with intact original gum command higher values.
Tip 2: Authentication: Verify authenticity through reputable sources, including experienced philatelic experts or established stamp dealers. Comparison with certified examples can be helpful.
Tip 3: Proper Storage: Protect stamps from humidity, temperature fluctuations, and light exposure. Archival-quality storage materials are recommended.
Tip 4: Understanding Variations: Familiarize oneself with different printings, plate number blocks, and perforation varieties. These variations can significantly impact value.
Tip 5: Research: Consult specialized catalogs, online resources, and philatelic societies to gain in-depth knowledge about this specific issue and its market value.
Tip 6: Patience: Building a valuable collection requires time and careful selection. Avoid impulsive purchases and focus on acquiring quality examples.
Tip 7: Handling: Use stamp tongs to avoid transferring oils and fingerprints, preserving the stamps condition.
Adhering to these guidelines facilitates informed decisions, protects investments, and contributes to a rewarding collecting experience.
These practical tips provide a foundation for navigating the complexities of stamp collecting, paving the way for a deeper appreciation of this five-cent definitive issue and its place within American philatelic history.
1. Washington Portrait
The portrait of George Washington featured on the 1967-1974 five-cent definitive stamp constitutes a crucial element of its design and symbolic meaning. This specific depiction, based on Jean-Antoine Houdon’s sculpted bust, contributes significantly to the stamp’s recognition and historical connection.
- Source Material
Houdon’s bust, created from life in 1785, provides a foundational realism and accuracy to the portrait. Its use ensures a faithful representation of Washington’s likeness, lending authenticity to the stamp’s design.
- Engraving and Printing
The translation of the three-dimensional bust into a two-dimensional engraved image for stamp production involved intricate artistry and technical skill. Variations in engraving and printing processes across different print runs can result in subtle distinctions among issued stamps.
- Symbolic Representation
Washington’s image evokes national identity, leadership, and historical significance. Its placement on a commonly used postage stamp reinforces these associations, embedding them in everyday communication.
- Philatelic Significance
The specific portrait, in conjunction with the stamp’s denomination, color, and issue dates, establishes its distinct philatelic identity. This precise combination of elements differentiates it from other Washington stamps and contributes to its collectability.
These facets of the Washington portrait contribute not only to the aesthetic appeal of the five-cent stamp but also to its historical and cultural value. The portrait acts as a visual anchor, linking the stamp to a recognizable figure and a specific period in American history, enriching its significance for collectors and historians alike.
2. Five-cent denomination
The five-cent denomination of the 1967-1974 George Washington stamp played a crucial role in its widespread usage and historical context. This specific face value reflected the standard first-class postage rate during much of this period. Consequently, millions of these stamps were printed and circulated, facilitating everyday communication for individuals and businesses across the United States. The affordability and ubiquity of the five-cent rate contributed to the stamp’s prevalence on letters, postcards, and other mailed items, embedding it within the fabric of daily life. Postal rate changes over time further underscore the significance of this particular denomination as a marker of a specific era in postal history.
Examining postal records and historical documents from this period reveals the practical implications of the five-cent rate. Analysis of surviving mail volume statistics demonstrates the sheer quantity of five-cent stamps required to meet the demands of a growing nation. Furthermore, the five-cent denomination influenced the design and printing choices for the stamp. The need for efficient, high-volume production impacted the selection of printing methods and materials, leaving a tangible record of these logistical considerations on the stamps themselves. Understanding the prevailing postal rates provides essential context for appreciating the widespread usage and practical function of this specific stamp issue.
The five-cent denomination of the “George Washington 5 Cent Stamp Blue” thus intertwines with its historical significance and prevalence. It represents not only a monetary value but also a reflection of postal practices, communication patterns, and economic conditions of the time. Recognizing this connection allows for a deeper appreciation of the stamp as a historical artifact, extending beyond its philatelic attributes to encompass its broader societal and economic context. This understanding reinforces the importance of considering denomination as a crucial factor in analyzing and interpreting historical postal materials.
3. Distinctive blue color
The distinct blue hue of the 1967-1974 five-cent George Washington definitive stamp serves as a critical identifier, distinguishing it from other stamps of the era and other Washington depictions. This specific shade, often described as a deep, rich blue, contributes significantly to the stamp’s recognizability and overall aesthetic. Color selection for postage stamps involves careful consideration of factors like visibility, contrast with cancellation marks, and printing technology limitations. The chosen blue likely resulted from a combination of these practicalities and aesthetic preferences. Furthermore, the stability of the ink formulation plays a crucial role in the stamp’s long-term appearance and preservation, influencing how its color is perceived by collectors today. Variations in printing processes and ink batches can lead to subtle color shifts, adding another layer of complexity for philatelic analysis.
Examining surviving examples reveals the practical implications of the blue color choice. The contrast between the blue stamp and typical black or red cancellation inks allows for clear postmark legibility, vital for postal operations and historical documentation. Moreover, the chosen shade contributes to the stamp’s visual appeal, enhancing its attractiveness to collectors. The blue also carries symbolic weight, often associated with trustworthiness and stability, potentially influencing its selection for a stamp featuring the nation’s first president. Comparing this stamp’s color to other contemporary issues provides insights into the color palettes employed during this period and reveals trends in stamp design aesthetics.
Understanding the specific blue color of this five-cent Washington stamp provides essential context for its identification, appreciation, and historical placement. The color’s practical implications for postal operations, its aesthetic contribution, and its potential symbolic meaning enrich the narrative surrounding this small but significant artifact. Careful observation and comparison of color variations across different printings can further enhance philatelic understanding, demonstrating the importance of color as a key element in stamp analysis and classification.
4. 1967-1974 issue dates
The 1967-1974 issue dates demarcate the period during which the specific “George Washington 5 Cent Stamp Blue” was produced and circulated. These dates are crucial for distinguishing this particular stamp from other Washington depictions and other five-cent definitives issued at different times. The span of 1967-1974 coincides with a specific period in American history, influencing the stamp’s context and relevance. Events of this era, including the Vietnam War and the Civil Rights Movement, provide a backdrop against which the stamp’s usage can be considered. Postal rates and printing technologies also evolved during this time, affecting the stamp’s design, production, and overall prevalence. For instance, the introduction of automated mail sorting equipment influenced design choices related to color and reflectivity.
Pinpointing the issue dates allows for a more precise understanding of the stamp’s production volume, usage patterns, and variations. Examining postal records from this period reveals the quantity of these stamps printed and distributed, offering insights into communication trends. Analyzing surviving mail from these years provides tangible examples of the stamp’s usage in everyday correspondence. Additionally, recognizing the issue dates helps identify specific printing variations and potential errors, adding a layer of complexity for collectors. Changes in printing processes and materials during this seven-year period might result in subtle differences among issued stamps, offering opportunities for specialized collecting and research.
Understanding the 1967-1974 issue dates provides essential context for placing this specific “George Washington 5 Cent Stamp Blue” within its proper historical and philatelic framework. This knowledge facilitates accurate identification, informed collecting decisions, and a richer appreciation of the stamp’s significance. Recognizing the interplay between issue dates, historical context, printing technology, and postal practices allows for a more nuanced interpretation of this seemingly simple artifact and its place within a larger historical narrative. The specificity of these dates is crucial for distinguishing this particular stamp from other similar issues and understanding its unique contribution to American philatelic history.
5. Definitive stamp series
The “George Washington 5 Cent Stamp Blue” holds a specific place within the broader context of definitive stamp series. Definitive stamps, unlike commemorative issues with limited production runs, are intended for regular, everyday postage usage. Understanding this distinction provides a crucial framework for interpreting the stamp’s production volume, design choices, and overall prevalence. Its inclusion within a definitive series signifies its role as a workhorse of the postal system during its circulation period, contrasting it with stamps intended for specific events or commemorations. This association also influences its perceived value and collectibility within philately.
- Regular Issue Status
Definitive stamps constitute the backbone of postal systems, providing readily available postage for standard mail. The “George Washington 5 Cent Stamp Blue” exemplifies this, serving the daily postal needs of millions during its years of circulation. Unlike commemorative stamps issued for specific events, definitives focus on practicality and consistent availability rather than limited-edition scarcity.
- Design Continuity and Evolution
Definitive series often feature consistent design elements over extended periods, with subtle variations emerging as printing technologies and aesthetic preferences evolve. The Washington five-cent stamp demonstrates this, with its portrait remaining constant while variations in shade, perforation, and other details distinguish different print runs. Analyzing these subtle changes provides insight into the history of stamp production and design.
- High Production Volume
The continuous demand for definitive stamps necessitates large print runs. Millions, if not billions, of the “George Washington 5 Cent Stamp Blue” were produced to meet postal needs. This high volume contrasts sharply with the limited quantities of commemorative stamps, impacting the five-cent Washington’s relative availability and market value.
- Philatelic Implications
While individual definitive stamps might not command the same high prices as rare commemoratives, their consistent usage creates opportunities for collecting specialized varieties. Plate number blocks, different perforation types, and subtle color shifts provide areas of focus for collectors. Understanding the stamp’s place within a definitive series informs collecting strategies and contributes to a more nuanced appreciation of its philatelic significance.
The “George Washington 5 Cent Stamp Blue,” as a component of a definitive series, represents a practical and ubiquitous element of postal communication during its era. Its design continuity, high production volume, and subtle variations within the series offer valuable insights into the history of stamp production and postal practices. Recognizing its function within a definitive series clarifies its intended purpose, its prevalence, and its unique position within American philatelic history, differentiating it from commemorative issues and providing a framework for understanding its widespread usage and enduring appeal to collectors.
6. Houdon bust source
The 1967-1974 five-cent Washington definitive stamp derives its portrait directly from Jean-Antoine Houdon’s 1785 bust of George Washington. This connection to a renowned work of sculpture imbues the stamp with historical weight and artistic significance. Understanding the Houdon bust’s role as the source material provides crucial context for appreciating the stamp’s design, its accuracy of portrayal, and its cultural resonance. This section explores the multifaceted relationship between the bust and the stamp.
- Sculptural Accuracy
Houdon’s meticulous approach to portraiture, based on life sittings and anatomical precision, resulted in a remarkably lifelike bust. This accuracy translates directly to the stamp’s portrait, lending it an authenticity rarely achieved in such a small format. Unlike idealized or stylized representations, the stamp, through its connection to the Houdon bust, presents a grounded portrayal of Washington.
- Artistic Legacy
Houdon’s reputation as a prominent sculptor of the 18th century elevates the stamp beyond a mere postage item. The bust, recognized for its artistic merit, imbues the stamp with cultural value. The stamp’s design thus benefits from its association with a recognized masterpiece, adding another layer of appreciation for collectors and historians.
- Reproduction Challenges
Translating the three-dimensional form of the bust into a two-dimensional image for stamp production presented technical challenges. Engravers had to capture the nuances of Houdon’s work while adapting it to the constraints of the printing process. Examining different printings of the stamp reveals subtle variations in how this translation was achieved, reflecting evolving engraving and printing techniques.
- Cultural Impact
The widespread circulation of the five-cent stamp effectively disseminated Houdon’s image of Washington across the nation. This exposure contributed to the bust’s iconic status and cemented its place in American visual culture. Millions interacted with a miniature reproduction of a renowned artwork through everyday postal use, highlighting the stamp’s role in disseminating cultural imagery.
The “George Washington 5 Cent Stamp Blue” stands as a testament to the enduring power of artistic representation. Its direct lineage to the Houdon bust establishes a tangible connection between a historical figure, a renowned artwork, and a commonplace object. This interplay of art, history, and postal functionality elevates the stamp beyond its utilitarian purpose, transforming it into a small but significant cultural artifact. By understanding the integral role of the Houdon bust, one gains a deeper appreciation for the stamp’s historical context, artistic legacy, and lasting impact on American visual culture.
7. Prominent Americans Series
The “George Washington 5 Cent Stamp Blue” belongs to the United States Postal Service’s Prominent Americans series, a definitive stamp program honoring significant figures in American history. This series provides crucial context for understanding the stamp’s design, purpose, and place within the broader landscape of American philately. Examining the series’ characteristics illuminates the five-cent Washington stamp’s significance.
- Thematic Focus
The Prominent Americans series aimed to recognize individuals who made substantial contributions to the nation’s development across various fields, from politics and science to arts and literature. Inclusion within this series underscores Washington’s central role in American history and reinforces the stamp’s commemorative function alongside its postal utility. Other figures featured in the series provide points of comparison and highlight the diverse range of individuals deemed worthy of recognition.
- Design Consistency
The series often employed consistent design elements, such as portrait-based compositions and classic typography, lending a cohesive visual identity to the various stamps. The five-cent Washington stamp adheres to this general aesthetic, sharing design characteristics with other stamps in the series. This uniformity contributes to a sense of continuity and recognizable style within the broader program.
- Denomination Variety
The Prominent Americans series encompassed a range of denominations, reflecting evolving postal rates and the need for stamps suitable for various mailing purposes. While the five-cent Washington stamp served the prevalent first-class rate, other denominations within the series catered to different postal needs. Examining these variations offers insight into historical postal practices and the practical considerations driving stamp production.
- Philatelic Context
Collectors often organize and appreciate stamps based on their series affiliation. The Prominent Americans series designation provides a framework for organizing and understanding the five-cent Washington stamp within a larger philatelic context. Specialized catalogs and collections often group stamps by series, allowing collectors to trace thematic and design continuities across different issues. This organizational principle enhances the understanding of individual stamps and their relationship to broader philatelic trends.
The “George Washington 5 Cent Stamp Blue” gains added meaning through its association with the Prominent Americans series. This connection clarifies its intended purpose, underscores its design characteristics, and situates it within a larger philatelic narrative. The series framework highlights the stamp’s commemorative function, its connection to other notable figures, and its contribution to the overall visual identity of American postage during its circulation period. Understanding this broader context enriches the appreciation of the five-cent Washington stamp as both a functional postal item and a piece of American history.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the 1967-1974 five-cent George Washington definitive stamp, offering concise and informative responses.
Question 1: How can one distinguish the 1967-1974 five-cent Washington stamp from other similar issues?
Key identifiers include the specific shade of blue, the issue dates (verifiable through specialized catalogs), and the stamp’s placement within the Prominent Americans series. Careful examination of these factors helps differentiate it from other Washington depictions on postage.
Question 2: What factors influence the value of this particular stamp?
Condition plays a significant role. Centering, gum condition (if unused), and the absence of flaws like tears or creases impact value. Variations such as plate number blocks and different perforation types also contribute to potential price differences.
Question 3: Where can one find reliable information on the stamp’s market value?
Reputable stamp catalogs, online philatelic marketplaces, and expert appraisers offer valuable resources for determining current market valuations. Consulting multiple sources provides a comprehensive understanding of price ranges.
Question 4: Are there any notable variations or errors associated with this stamp?
Specific varieties exist, including different shade variations and perforation types. While significant errors are less common, they can occur and dramatically increase a stamp’s value. Specialized resources and expert consultation are recommended for identifying and authenticating such variations.
Question 5: What is the best way to store and preserve these stamps?
Archival-quality storage materials, including acid-free albums and mounts, are essential for long-term preservation. Protecting stamps from humidity, temperature fluctuations, and excessive light exposure helps maintain their condition and value.
Question 6: How does this stamp fit within the context of American philately?
As a definitive stamp featuring a prominent historical figure, it represents a significant element of American postal history. Its widespread usage during its circulation period, its design based on a renowned work of art, and its placement within a recognized series contribute to its philatelic importance.
Careful consideration of these frequently asked questions provides a foundational understanding of the 1967-1974 five-cent George Washington stamp, enabling informed collecting decisions and a deeper appreciation of its historical and philatelic context.
Further exploration of specific aspects, such as detailed printing variations or in-depth market analysis, can enhance understanding and provide avenues for specialized collecting pursuits. The following sections will delve into these areas, offering additional resources and insights.
Conclusion
This exploration of the 1967-1974 five-cent George Washington definitive stamp has provided a comprehensive overview of its key attributes, historical context, and philatelic significance. From its iconic blue hue and widespread usage to its basis in Houdon’s renowned bust and its place within the Prominent Americans series, this seemingly commonplace postal item reveals a wealth of information upon closer examination. Factors influencing its value, including condition, variations, and market trends, have been addressed, alongside practical guidance on identification, preservation, and responsible collecting practices.
The enduring appeal of this five-cent stamp lies in its ability to connect collectors and historians with a specific period in American history. Through careful examination and thoughtful consideration, these small artifacts offer tangible links to the past, illuminating not only postal practices and design aesthetics but also broader cultural, economic, and social trends. Continued research and appreciation of such philatelic materials promise deeper insights into the complexities of history and the enduring power of objects to convey meaning across generations.
