The United States Postal Service issued a three-cent postage stamp honoring the historian Francis Parkman in 1966. Part of the Prominent Americans series, the stamp featured a portrait of Parkman based on a photograph taken late in his life. This series highlighted individuals who made significant contributions to American history and culture.
This commemorative postage served to recognize Parkman’s enduring legacy as a historian of early America, particularly his works on France and England’s struggle for control of North America. His meticulous research and engaging narrative style made him a prominent figure in 19th-century American literature. The stamp’s issuance coincided with a renewed interest in Parkman’s scholarship and helped introduce his work to a wider audience.
Further exploration of Parkman’s life, his major works such as The Oregon Trail, France and England in North America, and his place within American historiography can provide a richer understanding of his contributions and the significance of honoring him with a commemorative stamp.
Tips for Stamp Collectors
Building a meaningful stamp collection requires careful consideration and research. Focusing on specific themes, such as historical figures, can provide a framework for a cohesive collection. The following tips offer guidance for those interested in stamps like the 1966 Francis Parkman commemorative issue.
Tip 1: Research the Subject: Understanding the historical context surrounding a stamp’s subject enhances appreciation. Investigate Francis Parkman’s life and works to gain a deeper understanding of his importance.
Tip 2: Condition is Key: A stamp’s condition significantly impacts its value. Look for well-centered stamps free from tears, creases, or thin spots.
Tip 3: Proper Storage: Protect stamps from humidity, light, and pests using archival-quality albums and mounts.
Tip 4: Seek Expert Advice: Consult experienced philatelists or reputable stamp dealers for guidance on identifying and valuing stamps.
Tip 5: Build a Network: Joining stamp collecting clubs or online forums provides opportunities to learn from others and expand one’s collection.
Tip 6: Patience and Persistence: Building a valuable and meaningful collection takes time and dedication. Don’t be discouraged if finding specific stamps proves challenging.
By following these tips, collectors can build a rewarding collection that provides both enjoyment and historical insight. Focusing on specific themes, like commemorative stamps of important historical figures, adds depth and purpose to the collecting process.
This knowledge base provides a strong foundation for further exploration of stamp collecting and the rich history behind individual stamps like the one commemorating Francis Parkman.
1. Commemorative Stamp
Commemorative stamps represent a distinct category within philately, serving to honor individuals, events, or organizations deemed significant. The 1966 three-cent Francis Parkman stamp exemplifies this purpose, recognizing Parkman’s contributions to American historiography. Understanding the nature of commemorative stamps provides essential context for appreciating this specific issue.
- Purpose of Commemoration
Commemorative stamps highlight subjects of national or historical importance. Unlike definitive stamps issued for everyday postage, commemoratives are often printed in limited quantities and for specific periods. The Parkman stamp, for instance, celebrated a major figure in American literature and history, aiming to increase public awareness of his work.
- Design and Imagery
The design of a commemorative stamp contributes significantly to its message. The Parkman stamp features a portrait based on a late-life photograph, conveying a sense of his gravitas and scholarly achievement. The choice of image, typeface, and other design elements reflects the desired portrayal of the honored subject.
- Historical Context
Commemorative stamps reflect the historical period of their issuance. The Parkman stamp, released in 1966, coincided with a renewed interest in his scholarship. Analyzing the social and cultural climate surrounding a stamp’s release enriches understanding of its significance.
- Collectibility and Value
Commemorative stamps, often issued in limited runs, can become collectible items. Their value depends on factors like condition, rarity, and demand. The Parkman stamp, while not exceptionally rare, holds value for collectors interested in American history, literature, or the Prominent Americans series. Its value lies not just in its monetary worth, but also in its historical and cultural significance.
The Francis Parkman three-cent stamp demonstrates the function of commemorative stamps as historical artifacts and cultural touchstones. Examining the stamp through the lens of its commemorative nature provides a richer understanding of its purpose, design, and lasting significance within philately and American history. Comparing this stamp to others within the Prominent Americans series or other commemorative issues of the same period can further illuminate its unique attributes and context.
2. Francis Parkman
Francis Parkman’s legacy as a historian directly resulted in the creation of the 1966 three-cent commemorative stamp. Parkman’s meticulous research and engaging narratives about the French and English struggle for North America secured his place as a significant figure in 19th-century American literature and historical scholarship. The stamp serves as a tangible recognition of his contributions. Without Parkman’s substantial body of work, including classics like The Oregon Trail and France and England in North America, the impetus for a commemorative stamp honoring him would not have existed. The stamp itself becomes a historical artifact, reflecting the cultural values of the time it was issued a period of renewed interest in Parkmans work. For example, the stamps release coincided with growing public fascination with American history and the westward expansion, themes central to Parkman’s writing.
Understanding this connection provides insight into how historical figures are recognized and commemorated. The stamp serves as a miniature historical document, reflecting not only Parkmans individual achievements but also broader trends in historical scholarship and public interest. The choice to honor Parkman with a stamp illustrates the value placed on his work by the United States Postal Service and, by extension, the American public. This recognition also contributes to Parkmans continued presence in the public consciousness. The stamp acts as a visual reminder of his historical importance, prompting further exploration of his life and writings. Moreover, the stamps existence provides a concrete link between Parkman’s 19th-century scholarship and the 20th-century cultural landscape.
The relationship between Francis Parkman and the commemorative stamp bearing his likeness is a clear example of how individual contributions to scholarship can achieve broader cultural recognition. The stamp’s existence adds another dimension to Parkman’s legacy, ensuring his continued relevance in the public imagination. Studying the stamp’s historical context and its connection to Parkmans work offers a deeper understanding of both the man and his enduring impact on American historical writing. The stamp itself becomes a primary source, offering a tangible connection to a pivotal figure in American history and literature. The stamp’s issuance reflects a broader trend of recognizing important figures through commemorative postage, providing a unique lens through which to examine historical memory and public recognition.
3. Issued 1966
The year 1966 provides crucial context for understanding the Francis Parkman three-cent stamp. This specific issuance date connects the stamp to the social, cultural, and political climate of the mid-1960s. The timing suggests potential motivations behind the decision to honor Parkman at that particular juncture. For instance, 1966 fell within a period of heightened interest in American history, possibly influencing the choice of Parkman, a prominent historian of the nation’s past, as a subject for commemoration. This era also witnessed increased public engagement with historical figures, potentially reflecting a desire to connect with national heritage and identity. Positioning the stamp’s release within this historical context illuminates the factors that may have contributed to its creation.
Furthermore, the 1966 issuance date situates the stamp within a specific philatelic landscape. Examining other stamps issued during the same period can reveal contemporary design trends and thematic focuses. Comparing the Parkman stamp to other commemorative issues of 1966 allows for analysis of its unique characteristics and relative importance within the broader context of postal commemoration. This comparative approach provides insights into the stamp’s design choices, printing techniques, and intended audience. Understanding the philatelic landscape of 1966 enhances comprehension of the stamp’s place within the history of postage and its relationship to other commemorative efforts.
In conclusion, the “Issued 1966” component of the Francis Parkman stamp is not merely a chronological detail but a crucial element for understanding its significance. The date anchors the stamp within a specific historical moment, allowing for analysis of the cultural, social, and political factors that may have influenced its creation. By examining the stamp in relation to the broader context of 1966, one gains a richer appreciation for its historical meaning and its place within the broader narrative of American history and philately. This understanding underscores the importance of considering historical context when analyzing any historical artifact, emphasizing that these objects are not isolated entities but products of their time.
4. Three-cent denomination
The three-cent denomination of the Francis Parkman stamp provides a crucial link to the postal rates and economic conditions of 1966. Understanding the prevailing postal costs of the era clarifies the stamp’s intended usage and its relationship to other contemporary postage. Analysis of this denomination offers insights into the stamp’s practical function beyond its commemorative purpose.
- Standard Postal Rate
In 1966, three cents represented the standard first-class postage rate for a single ounce letter within the United States. The Parkman stamp, therefore, served a practical purpose for everyday mail while simultaneously commemorating a significant historical figure. This dual function highlights the stamp’s role as both a utilitarian object and a historical artifact.
- Affordability and Accessibility
The relatively low cost of three cents made the Parkman stamp accessible to a wide public. This affordability contributed to its widespread usage, increasing the likelihood of encountering the stamp and, consequently, promoting greater awareness of Francis Parkman’s historical significance. The accessibility of the stamp democratized engagement with historical commemoration.
- Relationship to Other Denominations
Analyzing the three-cent denomination in relation to other stamp values issued in 1966 provides a broader understanding of the postal system’s rate structure. Comparing the Parkman stamp to other denominations clarifies its intended use within the hierarchy of postal costs. For example, higher denominations were required for heavier letters or international mail, further contextualizing the Parkman stamp’s role within the system.
- Shifting Postal Rates
The three-cent rate itself represents a specific moment in the history of postal costs. Examining how postal rates changed over time, both before and after 1966, offers insights into economic trends and the evolving financial demands of the postal service. The Parkman stamp, therefore, serves as a marker within this larger history of postal rate fluctuations.
The three-cent denomination of the Francis Parkman stamp offers more than just a numerical value; it connects the stamp to the economic realities and postal practices of 1966. This facet of the stamp reveals its practical function within the postal system while also highlighting its role in promoting public awareness of a significant historical figure. Furthermore, the denomination provides a point of comparison for understanding broader trends in postal rates and their relationship to historical and economic contexts. The seemingly mundane detail of “three cents” enriches the historical narrative embedded within this small yet significant artifact.
5. Prominent Americans Series
The Francis Parkman three-cent stamp derives significant meaning from its inclusion within the Prominent Americans series. This series, initiated by the United States Postal Service, sought to honor individuals who made substantial contributions to American history, culture, and progress. Parkman’s inclusion among these ranks underscores his recognized importance as a historian and writer. The series itself provides a framework for understanding the stamp’s purpose, placing Parkman alongside other notable figures and solidifying his place within a broader narrative of American achievement. For example, other stamps in the series featured individuals like Robert Frost, Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr., and John James Audubon, demonstrating the diverse range of fields represented and highlighting Parkman’s status among such luminaries.
The Prominent Americans series also played a role in shaping the stamp’s design and presentation. The series typically featured portraits of the honored individuals, contributing to a consistent visual style and creating a cohesive collection for philatelists. This standardized format emphasizes the individuals’ contributions while also unifying the series aesthetically. The Parkman stamp, with its portrait based on a late-life photograph, adheres to this established design convention. This stylistic consistency reinforces the series’ overarching goal of celebrating American accomplishment. Moreover, the series designation likely influenced the stamp’s distribution and promotion, ensuring it reached a wide audience and contributed to public awareness of Parkman’s legacy.
Understanding the connection between the Francis Parkman stamp and the Prominent Americans series offers crucial insights into the stamp’s historical context and intended purpose. The series provides a valuable framework for interpreting the stamp’s significance, highlighting Parkman’s status as a major figure in American history and letters. Recognizing the stamp as part of a larger commemorative effort deepens appreciation for its place within the broader narrative of American cultural heritage and the ongoing practice of honoring notable individuals through philately. The series itself becomes a lens through which to examine the stamp, offering a richer understanding of its creation and its intended message. This connection reinforces the idea that individual stamps can hold significant cultural weight, particularly when considered within larger thematic collections like the Prominent Americans series.
6. Historical Significance
The historical significance of the Francis Parkman three-cent stamp operates on multiple levels. Firstly, the stamp itself serves as a historical artifact, reflecting the cultural values and commemorative practices of the United States in 1966. Its issuance coincided with a period of renewed interest in American history and westward expansion, themes central to Parkman’s writing. This timing suggests a deliberate effort to connect with national heritage and reaffirm Parkman’s place within the American historical narrative. The stamp’s very existence reflects the perceived importance of commemorating historical figures through postal imagery, a practice with roots in earlier philatelic traditions.
Secondly, the stamp’s historical significance derives from the subject it commemorates. Francis Parkman’s meticulous research and engaging narratives about the French and English struggle for control of North America established him as a leading historian of the 19th century. His works, such as The Oregon Trail and France and England in North America, remain important sources for understanding this pivotal period in American history. The stamp, therefore, acts as a tangible reminder of Parkman’s contributions to historical scholarship and his enduring legacy. The act of commemorating Parkman through a postage stamp elevates his status within the public consciousness and reinforces his importance to American historical understanding. For example, the stamp’s circulation potentially introduced Parkman’s work to a wider audience, stimulating further interest in his writings and the historical period he documented.
In summary, the historical significance of the Francis Parkman three-cent stamp encompasses both the object itself and the individual it commemorates. The stamp functions as a historical artifact, reflecting the cultural and commemorative practices of its time, while also serving as a tribute to a significant historian and his contributions to American historical scholarship. Understanding this multifaceted significance provides a deeper appreciation for the stamp as a historical document, a cultural artifact, and a testament to the enduring power of historical memory. The stamp’s continued presence in collections and its ongoing study by philatelists and historians alike ensures that both Parkman and the era that produced him remain relevant subjects of inquiry.
7. Collectible Item
The Francis Parkman three-cent stamp’s status as a collectible item stems from several interconnected factors. Its inherent historical association, limited production period, and thematic relevance within the Prominent Americans series contribute to its desirability among collectors. Issued in 1966 to commemorate a significant American historian, the stamp embodies a specific moment in time, capturing both Parkman’s legacy and the cultural context of its creation. This commemorative nature distinguishes it from definitive stamps intended for everyday use, imbuing it with an intrinsic value beyond its original postal function. The stamp’s limited availability further enhances its collectibility; once its initial print run concluded and postal usage declined, the stamp became a finite resource, increasing its desirability among philatelists seeking to complete thematic collections or acquire historically significant postal artifacts. For instance, collectors specializing in American history, 1960s ephemera, or the Prominent Americans series might actively seek this stamp, driving its value within the collecting market.
The stamp’s collectibility extends beyond its mere scarcity. Condition plays a critical role in determining a stamp’s worth. Examples in pristine condition, free from creases, tears, or fading, command higher prices. First-day covers, featuring the stamp postmarked on its initial day of issue, represent another highly sought-after collectible form. These covers often include special pictorial cancellations related to the stamp’s theme, further increasing their appeal. The presence of plate blocks, containing multiple stamps with their marginal markings intact, also adds value for collectors interested in printing variations and production details. The pursuit of these variations within a single stamp issue illustrates the nuanced nature of stamp collecting, extending beyond simple acquisition to encompass a deeper understanding of philatelic production and historical context.
Understanding the Francis Parkman stamp’s status as a collectible item provides insight into its historical, cultural, and economic significance. Its collectibility underscores the enduring interest in both Parkman’s legacy and the broader history of American postal commemoration. While the stamp’s face value represents a mere three cents, its value within the collecting market fluctuates based on factors like condition, rarity, and demand. This dynamic interplay between historical significance, scarcity, and market forces shapes the stamp’s value and reinforces its position as a tangible piece of American history. The challenges of locating specific variations, assessing condition, and navigating the complexities of the collecting market contribute to the enduring fascination with philately and the pursuit of historically significant postal artifacts like the Francis Parkman three-cent stamp.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the 1966 Francis Parkman three-cent stamp, providing concise and informative responses.
Question 1: What is the historical significance of Francis Parkman?
Francis Parkman (1823-1893) holds a prominent place in American historiography. His meticulous research and engaging narratives focused on the struggle between France and England for control of North America during the 17th and 18th centuries. His works, including The Oregon Trail and France and England in North America, remain valuable resources for understanding this pivotal period.
Question 2: Why was a stamp issued in Parkman’s honor?
The United States Postal Service issued the three-cent stamp in 1966 as part of the Prominent Americans series. This series recognized individuals who made significant contributions to American history, culture, and progress. Parkman’s inclusion reflects his standing as a major figure in American historical writing.
Question 3: What is the stamp’s value for collectors?
The stamp’s value varies depending on condition, including centering, color vibrancy, and lack of damage. First-day covers and plate blocks generally command higher prices. Consulting a stamp catalog or reputable dealer provides more precise valuations.
Question 4: How can one identify an authentic Parkman stamp?
Authenticity is best confirmed through expert examination. Key features include the portrait of Parkman, the “3 cents” denomination, the “United States Postage” inscription, and the year of issue (1966). Comparing the stamp to verified images and consulting philatelic resources aids in identification.
Question 5: Where can one acquire this stamp?
This stamp can be found through various channels, including stamp dealers, online marketplaces, auctions, and stamp shows. Reputable dealers offer authentication and grading services, ensuring the legitimacy and quality of purchased stamps.
Question 6: How should one store the stamp to preserve its condition?
Proper storage is crucial for maintaining a stamp’s value. Archival-quality stamp albums, mounts, and protective sleeves shield stamps from humidity, light, and pests. Avoiding direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and handling with bare fingers helps preserve condition.
These responses provide fundamental information regarding the Francis Parkman three-cent stamp. Further research using specialized philatelic resources offers a more comprehensive understanding of its historical context and collectible value.
Exploring related topics, such as the history of the Prominent Americans series or the intricacies of stamp collecting, enriches appreciation for this small but significant artifact.
Conclusion
Exploration of the 1966 three-cent Francis Parkman stamp reveals a convergence of historical commemoration, philatelic practice, and individual recognition. The stamp’s issuance reflects broader cultural trends of the mid-1960s, including a renewed interest in American history and the westward expansion. Analysis of its design, denomination, and placement within the Prominent Americans series underscores Parkman’s status as a major figure in American historical writing. Furthermore, the stamp’s collectibility demonstrates its enduring value within philately, highlighting the ongoing fascination with postal history and the tangible connections it offers to the past.
The Francis Parkman three-cent stamp stands as a small yet significant artifact. It encapsulates not only the legacy of a single historian but also the broader historical, cultural, and philatelic landscape of its time. Continued study of such objects offers valuable insights into the ways societies choose to remember and commemorate their past, reminding us of the enduring power of historical memory and the diverse forms it can take. Such seemingly modest items can hold profound meaning, offering tangible links to historical figures and the eras they represent.
