This postage, issued in 1954, features a portrait of James Monroe, the fifth President of the United States, and was part of the Liberty Issue series. These stamps represent a specific period in American philately, distinguishable by their design and denomination.
The Liberty Issue, including this particular denomination, served as a vital component of the nation’s postal system during the mid-20th century. These stamps facilitated communication across the country, playing a crucial role in connecting individuals and businesses. Their historical significance lies in their reflection of the era’s postal rates and design aesthetics. Collecting these stamps provides a tangible link to this period in American history.
Further exploration of this topic can involve examining specific aspects, such as variations in printing, the stamp’s usage on historical mail, and its current value within philatelic markets. The design choices and the context of the Liberty Issue itself also offer avenues for deeper investigation.
Collecting Tips
Careful consideration of several factors contributes to successful collecting of this particular piece of postal history.
Tip 1: Condition: Condition significantly impacts value. Look for examples with minimal wear, vibrant colors, and intact perforations.
Tip 2: Centering: Stamps ideally display balanced margins around the central design. Off-center examples are generally less desirable.
Tip 3: Gum: Original gum, undisturbed and free from hinging remnants, enhances a stamp’s desirability to collectors.
Tip 4: Plate Blocks: Collecting complete plate blocks, which include the margin markings, can add value and provide further insight into the printing process.
Tip 5: Research: Understanding the different varieties and potential errors associated with this stamp can aid in identifying valuable finds.
Tip 6: Reputable Dealers: Purchasing from established dealers specializing in philately ensures authenticity and accurate condition assessments.
By focusing on these key factors, collectors can build a meaningful collection of this historically significant stamp, preserving a tangible piece of the past.
These tips represent a starting point for those interested in acquiring and preserving these artifacts. Deeper exploration of specialized literature and engagement with the wider collecting community will further enhance one’s understanding and appreciation.
1. James Monroe
The depiction of James Monroe on this particular stamp serves as more than just a portrait; it represents a connection to a significant period in American history and presidential legacy. Understanding Monroe’s contributions provides crucial context for appreciating the stamp’s historical significance.
- Presidency (1817-1825):
Monroe’s two terms, often referred to as the “Era of Good Feelings,” were marked by national unity and economic prosperity. This period saw the acquisition of Florida, the Missouri Compromise, and the articulation of the Monroe Doctrine, a cornerstone of American foreign policy. The stamp serves as a tangible reminder of this era.
- Founding Father:
Monroe’s involvement in the American Revolution and his contributions to the drafting of the Constitution solidify his place as a key figure in the nation’s founding. The stamp, therefore, represents not just a president, but a participant in the very formation of the United States.
- Monroe Doctrine:
This policy, declaring the Americas closed to further European colonization, had a lasting impact on international relations. The stamp indirectly commemorates this doctrine, a defining aspect of Monroe’s legacy and a key element of American foreign policy for centuries.
- Fifth President:
The stamp’s issuance as part of the Liberty Issue series, featuring several presidents, highlights Monroe’s place within the lineage of American leadership. It serves as a reminder of the individuals who shaped the nation’s early development.
By understanding James Monroe’s historical contributions, one gains a deeper appreciation for the stamp bearing his likeness. It becomes more than just a piece of postal ephemera; it transforms into a tangible representation of a pivotal figure in American history, his presidency, and the enduring impact of his policies. The stamp serves as a gateway to exploring this rich historical context.
2. 1954 Issuance
The year 1954 marks a specific point in the history of United States postage, providing crucial context for understanding the Monroe ten-cent stamp. This year situates the stamp within a particular period of American philately, influenced by the prevailing design aesthetics, printing techniques, and postal rates of the time.
- Post-War Era:
1954 falls within the post-World War II period, a time of significant social and economic change in the United States. The stamp’s issuance reflects this context, potentially influenced by the nation’s renewed sense of stability and growth. This era witnessed an expansion of the middle class and increased reliance on postal services for communication.
- Liberty Issue Series:
The Monroe stamp belongs to the Liberty Issue series, a significant philatelic undertaking launched in 1954. This series, featuring prominent figures from American history, aimed to promote patriotism and national identity. The 1954 issuance date places this particular stamp at the beginning of this extensive series.
- Printing Technology:
Printing techniques and technologies employed in 1954 influenced the stamp’s appearance and overall quality. Understanding these processes provides insights into the stamp’s production and potential variations. The prevalent printing methods of the time, such as rotary press printing, contributed to the stamp’s characteristic appearance.
- Postal Rates:
The ten-cent denomination likely corresponded to a specific postal rate in 1954, perhaps for first-class mail or other common services. Examining historical postal rates provides context for the stamp’s practical function and its role within the broader postal system. This analysis can reveal how postal costs evolved over time.
Understanding the context of the 1954 issuance date enhances one’s appreciation of the Monroe ten-cent stamp. This date connects the stamp to specific historical circumstances, printing technologies, postal rates, and the broader Liberty Issue series. By considering these factors, the stamp becomes more than just a postage item; it transforms into a tangible artifact reflecting a particular moment in American history and philately.
3. Liberty Issue Series
The Liberty Issue series provides crucial context for understanding the Monroe ten-cent stamp. This extensive series, launched in 1954, featured prominent figures from American history, with the aim of promoting patriotism and national identity. The Monroe stamp represents a specific component within this larger philatelic undertaking.
- Prominent Figures:
The series showcased key figures who shaped American history, including presidents, statesmen, and other influential individuals. Alongside James Monroe, the series included portraits of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, and Benjamin Franklin. This selection emphasized national heroes and contributed to a cohesive narrative of American history.
- Patriotic Theme:
Issued during the Cold War era, the Liberty Issue series served as a vehicle for promoting patriotic ideals and reinforcing national unity. The stamps’ imagery and subject matter contributed to a sense of national pride and underscored American values. The inclusion of Monroe, a key figure in the early republic, reinforced this message.
- Design and Denominations:
The Liberty Issue encompassed a range of denominations, each serving specific postal needs. The Monroe ten-cent stamp fulfilled a particular role within this system, likely covering the cost of first-class mail or other common services. The series’ consistent design elements created a cohesive visual identity across different denominations.
- Philatelic Significance:
The Liberty Issue remains a significant series for stamp collectors. Its comprehensive scope, patriotic theme, and historical figures contribute to its enduring popularity. The Monroe ten-cent stamp, as part of this series, holds a specific place within philatelic history and represents a desirable item for collectors.
The Monroe ten-cent stamp’s inclusion within the Liberty Issue series enriches its historical and philatelic significance. By understanding the series’ overarching themes, design elements, and historical context, one gains a deeper appreciation for the individual stamp’s place within this larger narrative of American history and philately. The series provides a framework for understanding the stamp’s purpose, its visual presentation, and its value to collectors.
4. Ten-Cent Denomination
The ten-cent denomination of the 1954 James Monroe stamp reflects specific historical postal rates and provides insights into the cost of mailing services during that period. This denomination represents a tangible link to the economic realities of the mid-20th century and the value assigned to postal communication. Understanding this aspect provides a practical dimension to the stamp’s historical significance.
In 1954, the ten-cent denomination likely corresponded to the first-class postage rate for a standard letter. This association places the stamp within the everyday context of communication and commerce. Letters, bills, personal correspondence, and business documents all relied on this specific denomination for efficient delivery. Examining historical postal records and rate charts can further illuminate the prevalence and usage of the ten-cent stamp within the postal system of the time. For example, comparing the ten-cent rate to other denominations and services offered by the postal service can reveal its relative importance within the overall pricing structure.
The ten-cent denomination underscores the practical function of the Monroe stamp within the historical context of 1950s postal operations. It serves as a reminder that these stamps were not merely decorative or commemorative objects but essential tools facilitating communication and commerce throughout the United States. Further research into postal history can reveal how rate changes over time impacted stamp usage and design, providing valuable insights into the evolution of the postal service and its role in society.
5. Postal History
Postal history provides essential context for understanding the significance of the 1954 ten-cent James Monroe stamp. This field of study examines the development and evolution of postal systems, including rates, routes, and the physical artifacts used in mailing, such as stamps. The Monroe stamp represents a tangible piece of this history, offering insights into a specific period in American postal operations.
Analyzing postal history reveals the practical function of the Monroe stamp. Its ten-cent denomination likely corresponded to a specific postal rate in 1954, potentially the first-class rate for a standard letter. This connection illustrates the stamp’s role in facilitating daily communication and commerce. Examining historical postal records and rate charts can further contextualize its usage. For example, covers (envelopes with stamps and postal markings) bearing the Monroe stamp offer evidence of its use on specific mail routes and can pinpoint its geographical distribution. Furthermore, studying postal regulations from 1954 can illuminate the types of mail permitted to use the ten-cent denomination, offering a glimpse into the communication practices of the time.
Understanding the Monroe stamp through the lens of postal history transforms it from a simple postage item into a valuable historical artifact. It becomes a tangible representation of mid-20th century communication practices, postal rates, and printing technologies. This interdisciplinary approach deepens appreciation for the stamp’s significance beyond its face value. Challenges in researching this stamp’s postal history might include the scarcity of surviving covers or the difficulty in deciphering historical postal markings. However, the insights gained from such research provide a richer understanding of American social and economic history, as reflected through the evolution of its postal system.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the 1954 ten-cent James Monroe stamp, providing concise and informative responses.
Question 1: What is the historical significance of this stamp?
The stamp commemorates James Monroe, the fifth U.S. President, and reflects the postal rates and design aesthetics of 1954. It forms part of the Liberty Issue series, a significant philatelic undertaking.
Question 2: How can one determine the value of this stamp?
Several factors influence value, including condition, centering, presence of original gum, and potential printing errors or varieties. Consulting specialized stamp catalogs and seeking expert opinions are recommended.
Question 3: Where can one acquire this stamp for a collection?
Reputable stamp dealers, online marketplaces, and auctions offer potential avenues for acquisition. Careful consideration of seller reputation and stamp authentication is crucial.
Question 4: What are the key characteristics of the Liberty Issue series?
The series featured prominent figures from American history, emphasizing patriotic themes and national identity. It encompassed various denominations, each serving specific postal needs.
Question 5: How does postal history enhance understanding of this stamp?
Postal history provides context regarding the stamp’s practical usage, including its association with specific postal rates and mail services in 1954. Studying historical postal records adds depth to its significance.
Question 6: What are common misconceptions surrounding this stamp?
One misconception involves assuming all examples hold significant monetary value. Condition, rarity, and demand heavily influence market prices. Another misconception is that all stamps from this era are readily available. Certain varieties and well-preserved examples can be quite scarce.
Understanding these key aspects contributes to a more informed appreciation of the 1954 ten-cent James Monroe stamp. Further research into specific areas of interest can enhance this understanding.
This concludes the FAQ section. Further exploration can involve researching specialized philatelic resources and engaging with collector communities.
Conclusion
Exploration of the 1954 ten-cent James Monroe stamp reveals a confluence of historical, philatelic, and economic significance. From its depiction of a pivotal president to its place within the Liberty Issue series, this small artifact offers a tangible connection to the mid-20th century. Its denomination reflectspostal rates, while its usage illustrates the practical function of postage in facilitating communication. Furthermore, the stamps design, production, and distribution intertwine with broader themes of national identity and the evolution of postal systems. Careful examination reveals a depth of information often overlooked in such everyday objects.
The enduring value of this stamp lies not solely in its potential monetary worth, but rather in its capacity to encapsulate a specific moment in American history. Further investigation within philatelic resources and historical archives promises to yield additional insights and enrich our understanding of this seemingly unassuming piece of postal history. Preserving and studying such artifacts offers a tangible link to the past, fostering deeper appreciation for the complexities and nuances of historical context.
