The 16th President of the United States was honored on a four-cent denomination of postage issued in 1959. This stamp featured a portrait of Lincoln based on a photograph by Mathew Brady. It became a common sight on mail for several years, representing a modest cost for postal service at the time. One could find these stamps affixed to everyday correspondence, postcards, and small packages.
Issued during a period of significant social change and amidst the burgeoning Civil Rights Movement, this small piece of postal history offers a glimpse into the past. It reflects not only the ongoing reverence for Lincoln’s legacy but also serves as a tangible reminder of the cost of communication in mid-20th century America. Philatelically, the stamp holds interest due to its various printings and subtle variations, offering collectors an opportunity for detailed study.
Further exploration will delve into specific details regarding the stamp’s design, production process, and its place within the larger context of American philately. This will encompass discussions of different printing variations, known errors or varieties, and the stamp’s current value among collectors. The historical circumstances surrounding its release will also be examined, connecting this small artifact to the broader narrative of American history.
Collecting and Identifying the 1959 Lincoln Four-Cent Stamp
Careful consideration of several factors contributes to successful collecting and identification of this specific stamp. The following tips offer guidance for both novice and experienced collectors.
Tip 1: Examine the Perforations. Variations in perforation gauge exist between different printings. Careful measurement using a perforation gauge is essential for accurate identification.
Tip 2: Note the Gum. The type of gum used on the back of the stamp can help determine its printing and age. Look for variations in gum color and texture.
Tip 3: Consider the Color. While subtle, variations in shade can exist. Comparing the stamp’s color to a known color guide can be beneficial.
Tip 4: Check for Watermarks. Some varieties may possess watermarks, which can be detected by holding the stamp up to a light source.
Tip 5: Consult a Specialized Catalog. A comprehensive stamp catalog provides detailed information on different printings, varieties, and their respective values.
Tip 6: Seek Expert Opinion. If uncertain about a stamp’s authenticity or value, consulting a reputable philatelic expert is recommended.
By paying close attention to these details, collectors can build a comprehensive understanding of the 1959 Lincoln four-cent stamp and its variations. Accurate identification ensures the integrity of any collection and informs proper valuation.
This detailed examination of the stamp’s physical characteristics and the importance of proper identification techniques provides a foundation for further exploration of its historical and cultural significance.
1. 1959 Issuance
The 1959 issuance date holds significant relevance for the four-cent Lincoln stamp. This year marked the 150th anniversary of Lincoln’s birth, providing a natural occasion for commemorating his legacy. The decision to issue a new stamp design featuring the 16th president aligned with established traditions of honoring historical figures through postage. This commemorative context contributes significantly to the stamp’s perceived historical value among collectors and enthusiasts. Moreover, understanding the issuance date helps establish the stamp’s placement within broader postal history, distinguishing it from other Lincoln stamps released in different years. For instance, a four-cent Lincoln stamp issued in 1959 would possess different characteristics and hold different value compared to a similar stamp issued in a different year, even if the design were superficially similar. The year of issuance serves as a crucial identifying factor.
The 1959 issuance also coincided with a specific period in American history. The mid-20th century witnessed significant social and political change, including the burgeoning Civil Rights Movement. Examining the stamp within this historical context provides a deeper understanding of its cultural significance. A seemingly simple postage stamp can serve as a tangible artifact, connecting us to a specific moment in time. Further research into postal rates, printing technologies, and societal trends prevalent in 1959 can enrich one’s appreciation of this particular stamp. For example, understanding the cost of a four-cent stamp relative to average wages or the price of other goods in 1959 provides a glimpse into the economic landscape of the era.
In summary, the 1959 issuance date of the four-cent Lincoln stamp provides crucial context for understanding its historical and cultural significance. This information aids in accurate identification, valuation, and appreciation of the stamp, connecting a small piece of postal history to broader historical narratives. The confluence of Lincoln’s sesquicentennial and the specific societal climate of 1959 adds layers of meaning to this seemingly commonplace artifact. Further investigation into these areas enhances understanding and fosters a deeper appreciation for its place within American history and philately.
2. Four-cent Denomination
The four-cent denomination of the 1959 Abraham Lincoln stamp reflects the standard first-class postage rate for a one-ounce letter within the United States at that time. This seemingly mundane detail offers valuable insight into the economic and logistical realities of mid-20th-century communication. Postal rates are adjusted over time to reflect changing operational costs and economic conditions. Thus, the four-cent denomination itself serves as a historical marker. Prior to 1958, the first-class rate was three cents. The increase to four cents in 1958, reflected on this 1959 Lincoln stamp, signifies a measurable shift in postal expenses. Examining historical postal rate charts provides a tangible illustration of these economic changes and their impact on everyday communication.
The four-cent denomination also affected the stamp’s practical usage. Individuals purchasing postage for standard letters would have routinely utilized this stamp. Its widespread use contributed to its ubiquity and subsequent prevalence among collected stamps today. Consider the volume of mail generated daily in 1959. A substantial portion of this mail would have borne the four-cent Lincoln stamp, illustrating its integral role in facilitating communication across the nation. This widespread usage differentiates it from commemorative or special issue stamps produced in smaller quantities and often retained by collectors rather than used for postage. Therefore, the four-cent Lincoln stamp represents a tangible link to everyday life in 1959 America.
In summary, the four-cent denomination of the 1959 Abraham Lincoln stamp provides more than just a numerical value. It serves as a window into the economic realities of the time, affecting both postal operations and individual communication practices. This seemingly minor detail contributes significantly to the stamp’s historical and cultural significance, linking it directly to the daily lives of individuals and the broader economic landscape of 1959. Understanding the context of this denomination enhances appreciation for the stamp’s significance beyond its purely philatelic value. It demonstrates the value of examining seemingly minor details to glean insights into broader historical trends and their impact on society.
3. Lincoln Portrait
The portrait of Abraham Lincoln featured on the four-cent postage stamp issued in 1959 plays a crucial role in the stamp’s significance. This specific portrayal, based on a photograph by Mathew Brady, contributes directly to the stamp’s aesthetic appeal and historical resonance. The selection of this particular image, amidst numerous available representations of Lincoln, reflects a deliberate curatorial choice aimed at conveying a specific image of the president. Brady’s photograph captures a thoughtful and dignified Lincoln, reinforcing his image as a wise and resolute leader. This visual representation contributes significantly to the stamp’s commemorative function, solidifying Lincoln’s place in national memory.
The Lincoln portrait’s prominence on the stamp also impacts its collectibility. Variations in printing and subtle differences in the portrait’s reproduction across different print runs become points of interest for philatelists. For example, a slight misalignment in the printing process or a variation in ink color affecting the portrait can create a scarce variety, increasing its value among collectors. The portrait, therefore, serves not only as a visual representation of Lincoln but also as a key factor in determining a stamp’s rarity and worth. Damage or imperfections specifically affecting the portrait can also significantly impact a stamp’s condition and subsequent value.
In summary, the Lincoln portrait on the four-cent stamp transcends its purely visual function. It serves as a powerful symbol of Lincoln’s enduring legacy, contributing directly to the stamp’s historical and cultural significance. Furthermore, the portrait plays a critical role in determining the stamp’s value and collectibility within philately. Understanding the portrait’s origin, its reproduction on the stamp, and its impact on the stamp’s overall appearance provides valuable context for appreciating the stamp’s multifaceted significance. This nuanced understanding allows one to appreciate the stamp not merely as a piece of postal ephemera but as a tangible artifact imbued with historical and cultural meaning.
4. Mathew Brady Source
The 1959 four-cent Abraham Lincoln postage stamp derives its central image from a photograph by Mathew Brady, a prominent 19th-century American photographer. This connection to Brady elevates the stamp beyond a simple postal artifact, imbuing it with significant historical and artistic value. Brady’s work, renowned for its portrayal of prominent figures and its documentation of the American Civil War, lends an air of authenticity and historical weight to the stamp’s design. The specific Brady photograph used for the stamp, often cited as the “Cooper Union portrait,” captures Lincoln shortly before his presidency. This image, chosen for its dignified and thoughtful portrayal, contributes to the stamp’s enduring appeal and its role in shaping public perception of Lincoln.
Brady’s influence on the stamp’s design extends beyond mere visual representation. His photographic style, characterized by careful posing and attention to detail, informs the overall aesthetic of the stamp. This meticulous approach results in a portrait that conveys a sense of gravitas and respect befitting Lincoln’s stature. The stamp’s designers, in selecting a Brady photograph, consciously linked the stamp to a respected artistic tradition, enhancing its cultural value. The choice also acknowledges the importance of photography in documenting and shaping historical narratives. The stamp, through its connection to Brady, becomes a miniature tribute to both Lincoln and the burgeoning art of photography in the 19th century. Examples of other stamps utilizing historical photographs further demonstrate this practice of leveraging established imagery to enhance a stamp’s cultural and historical significance.
Understanding the stamp’s connection to Mathew Brady provides crucial context for appreciating its design and historical significance. This knowledge informs interpretations of the stamp’s visual elements and allows for a deeper understanding of its place within broader artistic and historical narratives. Recognizing Brady’s influence also underscores the importance of considering the source material when analyzing historical artifacts, highlighting the interconnectedness between art, history, and even seemingly mundane objects like postage stamps. Further research into Brady’s life and work can enrich one’s understanding of the stamp and its context within 19th-century portrait photography. This exploration reveals the layered meanings embedded within the stamp’s design and emphasizes its value as a small but significant piece of American history.
5. Common Postal Usage
The widespread utilization of the 1959 four-cent Abraham Lincoln stamp for everyday mail directly contributed to its prevalence and enduring recognition. As the standard first-class postage rate for a one-ounce letter at the time, this stamp graced countless pieces of correspondence, from personal letters and bills to business communications and postcards. This ubiquitous presence cemented its place in the American cultural landscape, transforming a simple piece of postal ephemera into a recognizable symbol of communication in the mid-20th century. Unlike commemorative stamps often purchased by collectors and rarely used for postage, the four-cent Lincoln stamp’s primary function was practical, facilitating the flow of information across the nation. This widespread usage resulted in significant print runs, leading to variations and subtle differences in printing among the stamps, further fueling interest among collectors today. Historical postal records and anecdotal evidence from period correspondence offer tangible proof of the stamp’s extensive use.
The stamp’s common usage also influenced its condition and availability today. While many were used and discarded, others survived on letters and packages preserved over time. The sheer volume of stamps printed means examples can be found in varying conditions, from well-preserved specimens to those bearing the marks of time and postal handling. This range in condition directly impacts collectibility and value, with pristine examples commanding higher prices than those showing signs of wear. The stamp’s common usage paradoxically contributes to its rarity in pristine condition; the very act that made it ubiquitous also increased the likelihood of damage or cancellation, making undamaged examples more scarce and desirable for collectors. Archival collections and personal correspondence from the era often contain examples of these stamps, providing tangible evidence of their widespread use and the varying conditions in which they can be found.
In summary, the common postal usage of the 1959 four-cent Abraham Lincoln stamp profoundly shaped its historical and philatelic significance. Its widespread use contributed to its enduring recognition, created variability among existing examples, and directly influenced its condition and collectibility today. Examining this aspect provides crucial insight into the stamp’s journey from a utilitarian object to a collectible artifact, demonstrating how common usage can paradoxically contribute to rarity and historical value within the realm of philately. Further research into postal history and contemporary accounts from 1959 can enrich understanding of the stamp’s prevalence and its impact on daily communication during that period.
6. Variety of Printings
The 1959 four-cent Abraham Lincoln stamp, due to its high volume printing and extended production period, exhibits a notable variety of printings. These variations, often subtle, arise from factors inherent in the printing process. Changes in printing plates, ink, paper, and perforation methods contribute to distinctions among different print runs. For collectors, these variations represent a significant area of study, impacting a stamp’s rarity and value. A seemingly minor alteration, such as a change in perforation gauge or a subtle shift in ink color, can distinguish one printing from another, creating distinct collectible varieties. For instance, stamps printed with the 11 x 10.5 perforation are generally more common than those with the 10 x 11 perforation, impacting their respective values.
Understanding these printing variations requires careful observation and often specialized tools. Philatelic resources, such as specialized catalogs and expert consultations, provide detailed information on identifying specific printings. Characteristics like perforation gauge, watermark presence or absence, and variations in gum type aid in differentiating among various print runs. Collectors often utilize tools like perforation gauges and watermark detectors to analyze these characteristics accurately. The ability to identify specific printings contributes significantly to accurate valuation and informed collecting practices. Detailed comparison between a stamp in question and established examples from reputable sources allows for confident identification and assessment of its relative rarity.
In summary, the variety of printings associated with the 1959 four-cent Abraham Lincoln stamp contributes significantly to its complexity and interest within philately. These variations, stemming from the intricacies of the printing process, offer collectors an opportunity for in-depth study and specialized knowledge. Accurate identification of these variations remains crucial for proper valuation and informed collecting decisions. The seemingly minor differences among printings underscore the rich detail and historical depth inherent in even commonplace objects like postage stamps, demonstrating the importance of meticulous observation and research within the field of philately.
7. Collectible Value
The collectible value of the 1959 four-cent Abraham Lincoln postage stamp hinges on a confluence of factors, extending beyond its historical significance. Condition, rarity, and demand within the philatelic market directly influence a stamp’s potential worth. A pristine, unused example with vibrant color and intact gum holds significantly higher value than a used, faded, or damaged stamp. Rarity, often linked to specific printing variations or errors, further amplifies value. For instance, a stamp with a known printing error, such as a missing color or an inverted design element, becomes considerably more valuable due to its scarcity. Documented examples of such errors achieve substantial prices at auction, demonstrating the impact of rarity on collectible value.
Market demand also plays a crucial role. Fluctuations in collector interest, driven by trends within philately or renewed historical attention to specific periods, can influence a stamp’s desirability and, consequently, its market price. While the 1959 four-cent Lincoln stamp remains relatively common, certain varieties, particularly those with documented errors, command significant premiums. Consulting reputable stamp catalogs and price guides, alongside seeking expert opinions, provides valuable insight into current market trends and estimations of a stamp’s potential value. Auction records offer concrete examples of realized prices, illustrating the dynamic relationship between demand and value within the philatelic market. For example, a well-preserved block of four of these stamps with a rare double impression error could fetch a significantly higher price than individual stamps in average condition.
In summary, the collectible value of the 1959 four-cent Abraham Lincoln stamp represents a complex interplay of condition, rarity, and market demand. Understanding these factors provides crucial guidance for collectors seeking to assess and appreciate the potential worth of these historical artifacts. While historical significance contributes to overall interest, condition and rarity remain paramount in determining market value. Ongoing research and engagement with the philatelic community provide crucial tools for navigating the complexities of stamp valuation and building a meaningful collection. The value of a stamp like the 1959 four-cent Lincoln transcends its face value, reflecting its historical context and its place within the broader narrative of American philately.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the 1959 four-cent Abraham Lincoln postage stamp, providing concise and informative responses.
Question 1: How can one distinguish between different printings of the stamp?
Variations in perforation gauge, watermark presence, and gum type differentiate printings. Specialized catalogs and philatelic tools aid in identification.
Question 2: What factors influence the stamp’s collectible value?
Condition, rarity, and market demand are primary determinants of value. Pristine, unused examples and those with printing errors command higher prices.
Question 3: Why was this specific Mathew Brady photograph chosen for the stamp’s design?
The chosen photograph, known as the “Cooper Union portrait,” projects a dignified and thoughtful image of Lincoln, aligning with commemorative intentions.
Question 4: How does the four-cent denomination reflect the historical context of the stamp?
The denomination represents the first-class postage rate in 1959, offering insight into postal rates and economic conditions of the period.
Question 5: Where can one find reliable information on stamp valuations?
Reputable stamp catalogs, price guides, auction records, and expert consultations provide valuable resources for assessing stamp values.
Question 6: What makes the 1959 four-cent Lincoln stamp significant beyond its face value?
The stamp embodies historical, cultural, and artistic significance, reflecting Lincoln’s legacy, the era’s postal practices, and the artistry of Mathew Brady’s photography.
Careful consideration of these points provides a comprehensive understanding of the 1959 four-cent Abraham Lincoln stamp’s multifaceted nature.
Further exploration may delve into specialized collecting areas, such as first-day covers, plate blocks, and detailed analysis of printing errors, offering avenues for deeper philatelic investigation.
The Abraham Lincoln 4-Cent Postage Stamp
This exploration of the Abraham Lincoln 4-cent postage stamp has revealed its multifaceted significance. From its 1959 issuance commemorating Lincoln’s sesquicentennial to the intricacies of its various printings, the stamp offers a tangible link to a specific moment in American history. The Mathew Brady photograph serving as the basis for Lincoln’s portrait connects the stamp to the burgeoning art of photography in the 19th century. Furthermore, the stamp’s common usage as the standard first-class postage rate reflects its role in the daily lives of individuals during that era. Understanding the factors influencing its collectible value, such as condition, rarity, and market demand, provides crucial context for appreciating its place within philately.
The Abraham Lincoln 4-cent postage stamp serves as more than just a piece of postal ephemera. It represents a convergence of historical commemoration, artistic representation, and everyday communication practices. Further research into specific aspects, such as detailed printing variations, plate block analysis, and the study of first-day covers, offers opportunities for continued exploration and a deeper appreciation of this small but significant artifact’s rich history.
