A postage stamp honoring the 26th President of the United States, Theodore Roosevelt, was issued with a denomination of six cents. This specific stamp is part of a larger series of presidential commemoratives. One example features a portrait of Roosevelt based on a photograph taken by Pach Brothers Studio.
Issued in 1956, this philatelic item reflects the nation’s respect for Roosevelt’s legacy of conservation, trust-busting, and a robust foreign policy. Its release coincided with renewed national interest in his life and accomplishments. These relatively inexpensive commemoratives made it possible for everyday citizens to own a small piece of American history. For collectors, these stamps represent a tangible link to a significant historical figure and era.
Further exploration of this topic might include the stamp’s design variations, its printing process, its current value in the philatelic market, or a broader discussion of presidential stamps and their role in commemorating American leaders. One could also delve into the historical context surrounding its issuance and the public’s reception of the stamp.
Tips for Collecting Presidential Commemorative Stamps
Building a collection focused on United States presidential commemoratives can be a rewarding pursuit. Several key considerations can assist in developing a comprehensive and valuable collection.
Tip 1: Focus and Scope: Decide on a specific area of focus. Collecting every presidential stamp can be daunting. Concentrating on a particular president, a specific era, or a particular denomination can provide a more manageable and targeted approach.
Tip 2: Condition is Key: The condition of a stamp dramatically impacts its value. Look for stamps with vibrant colors, intact perforations, and minimal signs of wear or damage.
Tip 3: Proper Storage: Protect investments using stamp albums, stock books, or protective mounts. Avoid direct sunlight, humidity, and temperature fluctuations.
Tip 4: Research and Knowledge: Understanding the history, rarity, and variations of different stamps is crucial for making informed decisions. Specialized catalogs and philatelic societies offer valuable resources.
Tip 5: Reputable Dealers: Acquire items from trusted dealers or auction houses specializing in philately. This helps ensure authenticity and accurate valuations.
Tip 6: Patience and Persistence: Building a significant collection takes time. Rare and desirable stamps may require patience and diligent searching.
Tip 7: Enjoy the Process: Stamp collecting offers a fascinating glimpse into history and art. The enjoyment derived from the pursuit should be the primary motivation.
By following these guidelines, one can develop a fulfilling and potentially valuable collection. Careful consideration of condition, authenticity, and storage will help preserve these historical artifacts for years to come.
These tips offer a starting point for building a collection. Further research and engagement with the philatelic community will enhance understanding and appreciation of this historical hobby.
1. Issuance Date
The year 1956 holds specific relevance for the Theodore Roosevelt six-cent stamp. This date marks the official release of the stamp by the United States Postal Service, placing it within a particular historical context. The mid-1950s witnessed renewed national interest in Roosevelt’s legacy, potentially influencing the decision to issue a commemorative stamp in his honor. Understanding the issuance date allows collectors to differentiate this stamp from other Roosevelt commemoratives released in different years. The 1956 date also helps determine the stamp’s potential value, as stamps from specific periods can command higher prices due to factors like rarity or demand.
Furthermore, 1956 provides insight into the stamp’s design and production. Printing techniques, design aesthetics, and even the type of paper used for stamps evolved over time. Knowing the issuance date helps one understand these technical aspects and appreciate the stamp’s production within the context of mid-20th-century printing technology. For example, the intaglio printing method common in this era contributes to the stamp’s detailed engraving and tactile quality. This date also connects the stamp to the specific postal rates of 1956, when a six-cent stamp could cover the cost of a first-class letter.
In summary, the 1956 issuance date is an essential piece of information for collectors and historians. It clarifies the stamp’s place within philatelic history, connects it to the prevailing social and political climate, and provides a foundation for assessing its authenticity and value. Understanding the historical context surrounding this stamp enriches appreciation for its significance as both a historical artifact and a collectible item.
2. Denomination
The denomination of six cents is a crucial element for understanding the Theodore Roosevelt stamp. This face value dictated its usage within the postal system of 1956, connecting the stamp to the broader context of postal rates and the cost of mailing a letter during that era. Analyzing this denomination offers insight into both the stamp’s practical function and its potential value to collectors.
- Postal Rates of 1956
In 1956, six cents represented the standard first-class postage rate for a one-ounce letter within the United States. The Theodore Roosevelt stamp, with its six-cent denomination, fulfilled this specific postal need. Examining historical postal rates clarifies the stamp’s practical utility at its time of issue. This contextual understanding allows for comparison with postage costs in other periods and highlights the changing value of postal services over time.
- Relative Value and Affordability
A six-cent denomination indicates the stamp’s relative affordability in 1956. Compared to stamps with higher denominations, the six-cent Roosevelt stamp would have been accessible to a wider range of the population. This accessibility likely contributed to the stamp’s wider circulation and its enduring presence in collections today. The affordability factor can also be contrasted with the cost of commemorative stamps issued in later years, demonstrating shifts in production costs and postal rate adjustments.
- Philatelic Significance of Denomination
For collectors, the denomination is a crucial element for identification and valuation. Stamps of the same design but with different denominations can have drastically different values. Distinguishing the six-cent Roosevelt stamp from other Roosevelt stamps issued with different denominations is essential for accurate appraisal. This distinction helps collectors categorize their collections and understand the relative rarity and value of specific stamps.
- Impact of Inflation and Changing Postal Rates
Examining the six-cent denomination in the context of subsequent postal rate increases highlights the impact of inflation. The fact that a six-cent stamp once covered the cost of a first-class letter underscores how the value of currency and cost of services have changed over time. This perspective underscores the historical significance of the stamp and connects it to broader economic trends.
The six-cent denomination of the Theodore Roosevelt stamp is more than just a face value; it provides a lens through which to examine the stamp’s historical context, practical function, and significance to collectors. Understanding this denomination enhances appreciation for the stamp’s place within the broader history of postal services and its relevance within the world of philately.
3. Design
The design of the Theodore Roosevelt six-cent stamp, featuring a presidential portrait, is central to its historical and philatelic significance. This portrait serves not merely as decoration but as a symbolic representation of Roosevelt himself, his presidency, and his enduring legacy. Understanding the design choices provides deeper insight into the stamp’s purpose and its impact on viewers.
- Source Image and Artistic Interpretation
The portrait on the stamp derives from a photograph taken by the Pach Brothers Studio, known for their portraits of prominent figures. The stamp’s engraver, however, interpreted this photographic source, adapting it to the constraints of the stamp’s small size and the printing process. This artistic interpretation, while based on a photographic likeness, involves choices regarding composition, detail, and emphasis, influencing the overall impression conveyed by the portrait.
- Symbolism and Iconography
The portrait functions as more than a mere likeness; it acts as a symbolic representation of Roosevelt’s persona and presidency. The image chosen, often a formal pose, conveys authority and dignity. Elements such as facial expression, attire, and posture contribute to the overall message conveyed. The portrait becomes an iconographic representation of Roosevelt’s leadership and his place in American history.
- Engraving Techniques and Aesthetic Impact
The specific engraving techniques used to create the stamp’s portrait impact its aesthetic qualities. The detailed lines and shading create a sense of depth and texture, enhancing the portrait’s visual appeal. The precision of the engraving contributes to the stamp’s perceived value, both historically and within philatelic circles. The choice of engraving, as opposed to other printing methods, reflects the design standards and technological capabilities of the time.
- Relationship to other Roosevelt Commemoratives
Comparing this stamp’s portrait to those used on other Roosevelt commemoratives reveals evolving depictions of his image over time. Differences in pose, attire, and artistic style reflect changing societal perceptions of Roosevelt and the artistic trends prevalent during different eras. Analyzing these variations allows for deeper understanding of how Roosevelt’s image has been constructed and reinterpreted across different media and historical periods.
The presidential portrait on the Theodore Roosevelt six-cent stamp acts as a focal point, conveying not only a visual likeness but also a symbolic representation of Roosevelt’s persona and legacy. Understanding the design choices, artistic interpretations, and historical context surrounding the portrait enriches appreciation for the stamp as both a historical artifact and a collectible item. This portrait bridges the gap between a historical figure and his commemoration on a small, yet significant, piece of postal history.
4. Printing Method
The utilization of a rotary press for the production of the 1956 Theodore Roosevelt six-cent stamp significantly influenced the stamp’s final appearance and its production efficiency. Rotary presses, unlike earlier flat-bed presses, allowed for high-speed, continuous printing, resulting in large quantities of stamps produced quickly and consistently. This method was crucial for meeting the postal service’s demand for widely circulated stamps like the Roosevelt commemorative.
The rotary press process, involving a cylindrical printing plate wrapped around a rotating drum, enabled precise and uniform printing across numerous stamps. This precision is evident in the crisp details of Roosevelt’s portrait and the consistent inking throughout the stamp’s design. The rotary press also facilitated the incorporation of security features, like intricate background patterns, which would have been more challenging and time-consuming to achieve with older printing technologies. An example of this can be seen in the fine lines and lettering present on the stamp, consistently reproduced thanks to the rotary press’s mechanical accuracy. This mechanization helped standardize stamp production, leading to greater uniformity compared to earlier, more manual methods.
Understanding the role of the rotary press in the stamp’s production provides valuable context for collectors and philatelists. Recognizing the characteristics of rotary press printing, such as the even inking and consistent perforations, aids in authenticating genuine specimens. The shift to rotary press technology represents a significant development in stamp production, contributing to the wider availability and affordability of postage stamps, including commemoratives like the Roosevelt issue. This knowledge enhances appreciation for the technical aspects of stamp production and their impact on the stamp’s appearance, circulation, and historical significance within the broader context of printing technology advancements.
5. Color
The deep red color of the 1956 Theodore Roosevelt six-cent stamp contributes significantly to its visual impact and collectibility. Color choice in stamp production frequently carries symbolic weight and practical implications. In this instance, the deep red hue likely aimed to convey a sense of importance and solemnity, befitting a presidential commemorative. This color also possesses excellent contrast against the predominantly white envelopes of the period, ensuring legibility for postal workers. Specific red inks and printing techniques available in 1956 influenced the final “deep red” appearance. Variations in ink batches and the aging process can result in subtle color shifts over time, a factor considered by philatelists when assessing a stamp’s condition and value. For example, a stamp exposed to excessive sunlight might exhibit fading, impacting its desirability to collectors.
The chosen deep red also differentiates this particular Roosevelt stamp from other commemorative issues featuring the 26th president. Earlier and later Roosevelt stamps utilize different colors, facilitating identification and cataloging within a collection. Philatelic literature and stamp catalogs often specify color variations to aid in accurate identification and valuation. The deep red of the 1956 stamp also interacts with the engraved portrait of Roosevelt. The color saturation affects the perceived depth and detail of the engraved image, impacting the overall aesthetic appeal. Analyzing the color in conjunction with the printing method provides a comprehensive understanding of the stamp’s production and visual characteristics. Changes in printing technology can also influence color rendition, requiring specialized knowledge to distinguish authentic examples from forgeries or reprints.
In conclusion, the deep red color of the Theodore Roosevelt six-cent stamp is not merely an incidental characteristic. It plays a crucial role in the stamp’s visual appeal, historical context, and collectibility. Understanding the technical and symbolic aspects of this color choice provides valuable insight for both casual observers and serious philatelists. The interplay between color, printing techniques, and historical context elevates the study of this seemingly simple design element into a rich area of exploration within the field of philately.
6. Perforations
The perforation measurement of 11 x 10.5 is a crucial identifying characteristic of the 1956 Theodore Roosevelt six-cent stamp. These seemingly minor details provide significant information for collectors and philatelists seeking to authenticate and evaluate this particular issue. Understanding the significance of perforations requires an examination of their role in stamp production, their impact on stamp separation, and their use in distinguishing genuine stamps from forgeries or reprints.
- Gauge Measurement and Stamp Separation
Perforations refer to the small holes punched around a stamp to facilitate separation from a sheet. The measurement 11 x 10.5 signifies the number of perforations per two centimeters along the horizontal (11) and vertical (10.5) edges of the stamp. This specific gauge helps differentiate the 1956 Roosevelt stamp from other issues with different perforation counts. Variations in perforation gauge, even minor ones, can significantly impact a stamp’s value.
- Production Methods and Technological Context
The 11 x 10.5 perforation gauge reflects the printing technology prevalent during the stamp’s production in 1956. Rotary press printing, the dominant method for mass-producing stamps at the time, utilized specialized perforation equipment. The chosen gauge reflects standard practices and technological capabilities of the era. Examining perforation characteristics can aid in identifying variations or errors in the production process, creating unique and potentially more valuable specimens for collectors.
- Role in Authentication and Philatelic Expertise
For collectors, perforation measurement is crucial for verifying authenticity. Counterfeit or reprinted stamps may exhibit incorrect perforation gauges, immediately signaling their non-genuine status. Philatelic tools, such as perforation gauges and specialized catalogs, assist collectors in accurately measuring and verifying perforation counts. These tools aid in distinguishing valuable originals from less valuable reproductions. Expertise in identifying subtle variations in perforation patterns contributes to accurate assessment and valuation within the philatelic market.
- Impact on Condition and Value
The condition of perforations significantly influences a stamp’s overall condition and value. Damaged, incomplete, or “short” perforations detract from a stamp’s desirability. Collectors prize stamps with intact, well-defined perforations, indicating careful handling and preservation. Philatelic grading standards often consider perforation quality when assessing a stamp’s condition and assigning a corresponding grade. A stamp with perfectly centered perforations and no faults generally commands a higher value than a stamp with damaged or trimmed perforations.
In the context of the Theodore Roosevelt six-cent stamp, the perforation gauge of 11 x 10.5 serves as a critical identifier, reflecting production methods of the era and providing key information for authentication and valuation. Careful examination of these seemingly small details reveals significant insights into the stamp’s production history and its value within the world of philately. This understanding underscores the importance of precise measurement and careful observation in assessing the authenticity and condition of stamps, highlighting the intricate details that define philatelic expertise.
7. Purpose
The “Commemorative” purpose of the 1956 Theodore Roosevelt six-cent stamp distinguishes it from regular postage issues. Commemorative stamps serve to honor individuals, events, or themes of national significance. Issuing this stamp marked a conscious decision to recognize and celebrate Roosevelt’s contributions to American history. This act of commemoration placed Roosevelt’s image and legacy within the public consciousness, reinforcing his importance to a generation decades removed from his presidency. Other examples of commemorative stamps include those honoring historical anniversaries, national parks, or significant achievements in science or the arts. The commemorative nature inherently elevates the stamp beyond its purely functional role as postage, transforming it into a miniature work of art and a historical artifact.
The commemorative purpose directly influenced the stamp’s design. The chosen portrait of Roosevelt, based on a formal studio photograph, projects an image of strength and leadership, aligning with the desired message of commemoration. The stamp’s deep red color further reinforces this sense of gravity and importance. Unlike definitive stamps intended for everyday use, commemorative issues often feature more elaborate designs and higher quality printing techniques. This distinction reflects the intention for these stamps to be saved and collected, serving as lasting tributes. The limited production period of commemorative stamps, unlike definitive issues printed continuously, also contributes to their collectibility and potential long-term value. These factors intertwine to shape the stamp’s perception and its enduring value within philatelic circles and beyond.
Understanding the commemorative purpose provides crucial context for interpreting the Theodore Roosevelt stamp’s significance. This purpose informs the design choices, the printing quality, and the stamp’s overall reception within society. Recognizing the stamp’s commemorative function helps to appreciate its role not merely as postage but as a deliberate act of remembrance and a tangible piece of American history. This understanding extends beyond individual stamps to encompass the broader role of commemorative issues in shaping public memory and reflecting national values.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the 1956 Theodore Roosevelt six-cent stamp, providing concise and informative responses for collectors and enthusiasts.
Question 1: What is the current market value of this stamp?
Market value fluctuates based on condition, demand, and market trends. Consulting reputable stamp catalogs and dealers provides the most accurate valuations.
Question 2: How can one determine the authenticity of a Theodore Roosevelt six-cent stamp?
Authenticity verification involves careful examination of design details, perforation gauge, paper type, and printing method. Professional authentication services are available for definitive assessment.
Question 3: Were there different variations of this stamp issued in 1956?
While the basic design remained consistent, variations can occur due to different printing plates or paper types. Specialized catalogs document these variations, which can influence a stamp’s value.
Question 4: What is the best way to store and preserve this stamp?
Acid-free stamp albums, protective mounts, and climate-controlled environments protect stamps from damage due to humidity, light, and temperature fluctuations.
Question 5: Where can one acquire this stamp for a collection?
Reputable stamp dealers, online marketplaces specializing in philately, and stamp auctions offer avenues for acquiring this and other stamps.
Question 6: How does this stamp relate to other Theodore Roosevelt commemorative issues?
This stamp forms part of a larger series of Roosevelt commemoratives issued throughout different periods. Understanding the historical context of each issue provides a broader perspective on how Roosevelt’s image and legacy have been represented philatelically.
Careful consideration of these frequently asked questions provides a foundation for informed collecting and deeper appreciation of the historical and philatelic significance of the 1956 Theodore Roosevelt six-cent stamp.
Further research and engagement with philatelic resources offer opportunities for expanding one’s knowledge and enhancing the enjoyment of stamp collecting.
The Theodore Roosevelt 6 Cent Stamp
Exploration of the Theodore Roosevelt 6 cent stamp reveals a confluence of historical context, artistic design, and technical printing processes. From its 1956 issuance date to its deep red color and precise 11 x 10.5 perforations, each element contributes to the stamp’s unique identity within philately. The stamp’s commemorative purpose, honoring the 26th U.S. President, elevates its significance beyond mere postage. Analysis of the portrait design, derived from a Pach Brothers photograph, reveals an artistic interpretation of Roosevelt’s image, rendered through skilled engraving and printed using the efficient rotary press method. Consideration of the stamp’s denomination, a standard six cents for first-class mail in 1956, provides insight into the postal rates and economic climate of the era.
The Theodore Roosevelt 6 cent stamp stands as a tangible representation of a specific historical moment. This small artifact encapsulates not only Roosevelt’s legacy but also the design aesthetics, printing technologies, and postal practices of the mid-20th century. Further investigation into presidential commemoratives and the broader world of philately offers continued opportunities for historical exploration and deeper appreciation of these miniature windows into the past.
