This specific postage, issued in 1923, featured a portrait of Chief Hollow Horn Bear, a prominent Lakota leader. It represented a significant step in acknowledging the contributions of Indigenous peoples within the United States postal system. The design showcased a recognizable figure of Native American heritage, distinguished by its denomination and the era of its release. It serves as a tangible example of early 20th-century philatelic design and printing techniques.
The issuance held cultural and historical significance, marking a departure from previous depictions of Native Americans in popular media. While its creation occurred within a complex historical context, its existence reflects a growing awareness and attempt at representation within the federal government. It provides a valuable lens for understanding the evolving perceptions of Indigenous cultures and the challenges they faced during this period. For collectors, this particular stamp is a sought-after piece of postal history due to its unique subject matter and limited printing run.
Further exploration into the stamp’s design, production, and reception can offer valuable insights into broader themes of representation, cultural identity, and the historical relationship between the United States government and Indigenous communities. Examining this seemingly small piece of postal history can illuminate larger social and political narratives.
Collecting and Understanding the 1923 Hollow Horn Bear Stamp
For those interested in acquiring or learning more about the 1923 stamp featuring Chief Hollow Horn Bear, the following tips offer guidance:
Tip 1: Authentication and Condition: Verify authenticity through reputable dealers or philatelic experts. Condition significantly impacts value; prioritize stamps with minimal damage or fading.
Tip 2: Researching Market Value: Consult stamp catalogs, online marketplaces, and auction records to understand the current market value based on condition and rarity.
Tip 3: Proper Storage: Protect the stamp from light, humidity, and temperature fluctuations using archival-quality materials, such as acid-free albums and protective sleeves.
Tip 4: Understanding Historical Context: Research the historical period, Chief Hollow Horn Bear’s legacy, and the stamp’s design origins to appreciate its significance fully.
Tip 5: Connecting with Philatelic Communities: Joining stamp collecting clubs or online forums provides opportunities to connect with other enthusiasts, share knowledge, and learn from experienced collectors.
Tip 6: Exploring Related Materials: Expand one’s understanding by researching related postal history items, such as first day covers, postal cancellations, and other stamps from the same era.
By following these recommendations, collectors and history enthusiasts can ensure responsible acquisition, preservation, and appreciation of this historically significant piece of philately.
The 1923 Hollow Horn Bear stamp provides a unique window into the past, offering a tangible connection to a specific historical moment and prompting reflection on broader themes of cultural representation and historical memory.
1. Chief Hollow Horn Bear
Chief Hollow Horn Bear (Mat Thka) of the Lakota Sioux, a respected leader and advocate for his people’s rights, became the subject of the 1923 fourteen-cent U.S. postage stamp. This selection directly linked the image of a prominent Native American figure with a widely circulated piece of government-issued ephemera. Hollow Horn Bear’s image, adapted from a photograph taken by De Lancey Gill, served as the central design element. This choice elevated his visibility nationally and internationally, furthering awareness of Indigenous peoples. The stamp’s release followed Hollow Horn Bear’s participation in several significant events, including delegations to Washington D.C. and his involvement in Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show, which contributed to his national recognition and likely influenced his selection for the stamp.
The use of Hollow Horn Bear’s likeness represents a complex intersection of governmental policy and cultural representation. While ostensibly a gesture of recognition, it also coincided with ongoing federal policies impacting Native American sovereignty and land rights. The decision to feature a specific individual, rather than a generic representation, adds a layer of nuance to the stamp’s meaning. This approach, while arguably a step toward individual recognition, also risked essentializing an entire population through a single representative figure. Examining historical records, such as treaty negotiations and government correspondence from this period, illuminates the broader context surrounding the stamp’s issuance.
Understanding the link between Chief Hollow Horn Bear and the 1923 stamp provides crucial insights into the evolving relationship between the U.S. government and Native American communities. It underscores the complexities of representation and the challenges of interpreting historical actions. The stamp serves as a lasting symbol of this intricate relationship, reminding us of the importance of critically examining historical narratives and recognizing the ongoing impact of past policies on present-day realities. It also provides a tangible object through which to explore the life and legacy of Chief Hollow Horn Bear and his role in advocating for his people.
2. 1923 Issuance
The year 1923 marks the specific release date of the fourteen-cent stamp featuring Chief Hollow Horn Bear. This precise timing situates the stamp within a particular historical context crucial for understanding its significance. The early 1920s witnessed a period of evolving social and political dynamics in the United States, including shifting attitudes towards Native American communities. The 1923 issuance occurred during a period of significant transition for Indigenous populations as they navigated the ongoing impacts of federal policies, including land allotment and assimilation efforts. The choice to release a stamp honoring a Native American leader during this era reflects a complex interplay of factors influencing government actions and public perception.
Examining the 1923 issuance date alongside related historical events, such as ongoing legislative debates concerning Native American affairs, provides valuable context. For instance, the Snyder Act of 1924, granting full U.S. citizenship to all Native Americans, followed shortly after the stamp’s release. This proximity raises questions about the relationship between the stamp’s issuance and broader governmental strategies regarding Indigenous populations. Did the stamp represent a genuine attempt at reconciliation and recognition, or was it part of a larger narrative surrounding assimilation and control? Analyzing the historical record allows for a deeper understanding of the complexities and potential motivations behind this seemingly simple act of issuing a postage stamp. Furthermore, comparing the 1923 stamp to other commemorative stamps issued during the same period helps to elucidate the prevailing social and political climate of the time.
Understanding the specific year of issuance allows for a more nuanced interpretation of the stamp’s meaning and purpose. It reinforces the importance of considering historical context when analyzing seemingly isolated events. The 1923 issuance of the Hollow Horn Bear stamp serves as a starting point for exploring broader themes of representation, identity, and the evolving relationship between the U.S. government and Indigenous communities. The stamp’s release provides a tangible focal point for investigating complex historical processes and their lasting legacies. Further research into primary source materials from 1923, such as newspapers, government documents, and personal accounts, can provide richer insights into the societal climate surrounding the stamp’s release and its reception within different communities.
3. Fourteen-Cent Denomination
The fourteen-cent denomination of the 1923 Hollow Horn Bear stamp provides a specific entry point for understanding its place within the broader postal system of the time. This seemingly minor detail offers insights into the intended usage and perceived value of the stamp within the context of early 20th-century postal rates. Analyzing the chosen denomination alongside contemporary postal regulations and rates illuminates its practical function and potential implications for the stamp’s distribution and usage.
- First-Class Postage Rates:
In 1923, the standard first-class postage rate was two cents. The significantly higher fourteen-cent denomination suggests the stamp was intended for heavier mailings or other specific postal services requiring a higher fee. Researching the postal regulations of the period clarifies the intended uses for a stamp of this denomination, providing context for its relatively limited circulation compared to lower denomination stamps. This exploration offers valuable insight into the practical function of the stamp beyond its commemorative purpose.
- Relative Cost and Value:
Fourteen cents in 1923 represented a greater relative cost than the equivalent sum today. Understanding the purchasing power of fourteen cents during that era provides a more accurate understanding of the stamp’s perceived value at the time of its release. This economic context enriches the analysis of the stamp’s production and usage patterns. Comparing the cost of the stamp to average wages and the price of common goods during the same period reveals its relative expense and, consequently, its likely usage patterns.
- Philatelic Implications:
The higher denomination often influences a stamp’s desirability among collectors. Scarcity due to limited usage can contribute to increased value within the philatelic market. The fourteen-cent denomination of the Hollow Horn Bear stamp, combined with its historical significance, contributes to its appeal among collectors today. This numismatic perspective highlights the intersection of historical significance and market forces in determining a stamp’s value over time.
- Printing and Distribution:
The quantity printed and the distribution patterns of the fourteen-cent Hollow Horn Bear stamp are likely distinct from lower denominations. Analyzing postal records and production figures offers insights into its circulation and usage throughout the country. This data-driven approach provides a more granular understanding of the stamp’s reach and its potential impact on different communities. Comparing these statistics to those of other contemporary stamps further contextualizes the Hollow Horn Bear stamp’s place within the postal system of the time.
By considering the fourteen-cent denomination of the 1923 Hollow Horn Bear stamp, one gains a deeper appreciation for its practical role within the postal system, its relative value during the period, and its implications for collectors today. This detailed analysis illuminates the multifaceted nature of a seemingly simple aspect of the stamp, further enriching our understanding of its historical and cultural significance. This exploration demonstrates how even seemingly minor details can offer valuable insights into broader historical narratives and enhance our understanding of the past.
4. Native American Representation
The 1923 fourteen-cent stamp featuring Chief Hollow Horn Bear provides a focal point for examining Native American representation within the United States during the early 20th century. This specific instance of visual representation on a government-issued item offers a lens through which to analyze broader themes of cultural identity, political power, and historical narratives. Examining the stamp necessitates considering the prevailing social and political climate of the era and its impact on Indigenous communities.
- Image Selection and Portrayal:
The choice of Chief Hollow Horn Bear, a prominent Lakota leader, as the subject of the stamp carries significant weight. The specific image used, adapted from a photograph, presents him in a dignified, yet arguably stereotypical, manner. This portrayal reflects the complexities of representation, where even seemingly positive depictions can perpetuate existing power dynamics and cultural biases. Analyzing the image alongside other portrayals of Native Americans in popular culture during this period provides valuable context.
- Governmental Motives and Public Perception:
The decision by the U.S. government to issue a stamp featuring a Native American leader raises questions about the motivations behind this act. Was it a genuine gesture of recognition and respect, or did it serve other political purposes, such as promoting assimilationist policies? Examining the historical context surrounding the stamp’s issuance, including contemporary government documents and public discourse, helps to unpack these complexities.
- Impact on Native American Communities:
The stamp’s impact on Native American communities is a crucial aspect to consider. Did the portrayal of Chief Hollow Horn Bear resonate with Indigenous populations? Did it foster a sense of pride and recognition, or did it reinforce existing stereotypes and marginalization? Exploring historical accounts and perspectives from within Native American communities offers valuable insights into the stamp’s reception and its potential impact on cultural identity.
- Legacy and Long-Term Implications:
The 1923 stamp’s legacy extends beyond its initial issuance. It continues to serve as a point of discussion and analysis regarding Native American representation in the United States. Examining the stamp’s historical context and its evolving interpretations over time provides a deeper understanding of its enduring significance and its relevance to contemporary discussions about representation, cultural identity, and historical memory.
By exploring these facets of Native American representation in relation to the fourteen-cent stamp, a more nuanced understanding of its historical and cultural significance emerges. The stamp serves as a valuable artifact for analyzing the complexities of representation and its role in shaping perceptions of Indigenous peoples within the United States. Further research into the broader historical context, including the experiences and perspectives of Native American communities, is essential for a comprehensive understanding of the stamp’s impact and its ongoing relevance.
5. Philatelic Significance
The 1923 fourteen-cent stamp featuring Chief Hollow Horn Bear holds significant philatelic importance due to several converging factors. Its unique subject matter, a prominent Native American leader, distinguishes it within the broader context of U.S. postage stamps issued during this period. This representation contributes to its historical value and desirability among collectors. The stamp’s relatively high denomination, fourteen cents, resulted in lower printing numbers and limited usage compared to more common denominations, further enhancing its rarity and collectibility. This scarcity, combined with the stamp’s historical and cultural significance, contributes to its appeal within the philatelic market. The stamp’s design, based on a photograph by De Lancey Gill, also holds artistic merit, adding another layer of interest for collectors. Moreover, the stamp’s existence offers a tangible connection to a specific historical moment, providing a material link to the past.
The stamp’s philatelic significance extends beyond its intrinsic qualities. Its presence in various collections and its inclusion in philatelic catalogs and publications contribute to its documented importance within the field. The stamp’s documented appearances in prestigious collections, such as the Smithsonian National Postal Museum, solidify its recognized value and historical significance. Its inclusion in specialized catalogs and publications dedicated to Native American philately or U.S. postage of the 1920s further establishes its place within the broader philatelic landscape. The stamp’s documented sales history at auctions and through private dealers provides a quantifiable measure of its market value and desirability among collectors. These market dynamics reflect the ongoing interest in the stamp and its enduring appeal within the philatelic community.
Understanding the philatelic significance of the 1923 fourteen-cent Hollow Horn Bear stamp provides a framework for appreciating its value beyond its mere monetary worth. Its rarity, historical context, and cultural significance combine to create a unique and valuable artifact within the world of stamp collecting. Furthermore, the stamp’s philatelic significance contributes to its preservation and continued study, ensuring its accessibility for future generations of collectors and researchers. The stamp’s presence in museum collections and its documentation in philatelic literature contribute to its long-term preservation and accessibility, ensuring its continued relevance for future scholarship and appreciation. This preservation effort underscores the importance of philately in safeguarding historical artifacts and facilitating ongoing research and understanding of the past.
6. Historical Context
The 1923 issuance of the fourteen-cent stamp featuring Chief Hollow Horn Bear cannot be fully understood without examining the historical context of the era. This context encompasses the complex relationship between the United States government and Native American communities during the early 20th century. Federal policies, including land allotment, assimilation efforts, and the suppression of Indigenous cultures, profoundly impacted the lives of Native Americans. The stamp’s release occurred during a period of ongoing struggle for Indigenous peoples as they navigated the lasting effects of these policies. Understanding this historical backdrop is crucial for interpreting the stamp’s meaning and its potential implications.
The stamp’s issuance coincided with a period of shifting public perceptions of Native Americans. While some advocated for greater recognition and respect for Indigenous cultures, others maintained assimilationist views. This complex and often contradictory social climate influenced the reception of the stamp. For example, some viewed the stamp as a positive step towards acknowledging Native American contributions, while others saw it as a token gesture or even a tool for furthering assimilationist agendas. Analyzing newspaper articles, public statements, and government documents from the period reveals the diverse range of opinions surrounding the stamp’s release and its perceived significance. Furthermore, the stamp’s historical context intersects with the specific circumstances of Chief Hollow Horn Bear’s life and his advocacy for the rights of his people. His participation in delegations to Washington D.C. and his involvement in public performances shaped his public image and likely influenced his selection as the subject of the stamp.
Analyzing the historical context surrounding the 1923 fourteen-cent stamp provides crucial insights into its complexities and multifaceted nature. It allows for a deeper understanding of the motivations behind the stamp’s creation, its reception by different communities, and its lasting legacy. Recognizing the historical context emphasizes the importance of critical analysis when interpreting historical artifacts and acknowledging the ongoing impact of past policies on present-day realities. The stamp serves as a tangible reminder of the complex relationship between the U.S. government and Indigenous communities and prompts continued reflection on issues of representation, cultural identity, and historical memory.
7. Cultural Impact
The 1923 fourteen-cent stamp featuring Chief Hollow Horn Bear exerted a multifaceted cultural impact, extending beyond its function as postage. Its creation and circulation intersected with evolving social and political dynamics surrounding Native American representation in the United States during the early 20th century. Analyzing the stamp’s cultural impact requires considering its reception within both Indigenous communities and the broader American public, as well as its long-term implications for cultural memory and historical narratives.
- Shifting Representations:
The stamp’s issuance coincided with a period of changing representations of Native Americans in popular culture and government discourse. The decision to feature a specific individual, a respected Lakota leader, rather than a generic or stereotypical image, marked a departure from earlier depictions. While not without its complexities, this portrayal contributed to a broader shift towards more nuanced and individualized representations of Indigenous peoples. This shift, however incremental, reflected evolving social attitudes and a growing awareness of Native American cultural diversity.
- Indigenous Perspectives:
The stamp’s reception within Native American communities varied. While some viewed it as a sign of recognition and respect, others remained critical of its potential to reinforce existing stereotypes or to serve as a token gesture in the face of ongoing injustices. Examining historical accounts and perspectives from within Indigenous communities provides crucial insight into the complexities of the stamp’s cultural impact and its varying interpretations.
- National Identity and Historical Memory:
The stamp’s circulation throughout the United States contributed to the broader national narrative surrounding Native Americans. Its presence on everyday mail served as a constant, albeit subtle, reminder of Indigenous presence within American society. This visual representation, however limited, played a role in shaping public perceptions and contributed to the ongoing process of constructing national identity and historical memory.
- Commemoration and Legacy:
The 1923 stamp continues to hold cultural significance today. It serves as a historical artifact, prompting reflection on the complex relationship between the U.S. government and Indigenous communities. Its presence in museum collections, philatelic publications, and historical analyses ensures its continued relevance in contemporary discussions about representation, cultural identity, and the ongoing impact of historical narratives.
The cultural impact of the fourteen-cent Hollow Horn Bear stamp transcends its original purpose as postage. It serves as a valuable lens through which to examine evolving social attitudes, the complexities of representation, and the ongoing process of shaping cultural memory. Its enduring presence in historical discourse and philatelic circles underscores its lasting significance and its continued relevance for understanding the complex relationship between the United States and Native American communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the 1923 fourteen-cent stamp featuring Chief Hollow Horn Bear, providing concise yet informative responses.
Question 1: What is the significance of the 1923 fourteen-cent stamp featuring Chief Hollow Horn Bear?
This stamp holds historical and cultural significance as it features a prominent Lakota leader, marking a notable instance of Native American representation on U.S. postage during a period of complex relations between the government and Indigenous communities.
Question 2: Why was Chief Hollow Horn Bear chosen for this stamp?
His selection likely stems from his prominence as a Lakota leader and his participation in significant events, including delegations to Washington D.C., which brought him national recognition.
Question 3: What is the philatelic value of this stamp?
The stamp’s value varies based on condition and market fluctuations. Its relative scarcity due to the higher denomination and historical significance contributes to its desirability among collectors. Consulting reputable stamp catalogs and dealers provides current market valuations.
Question 4: How can one authenticate a 1923 fourteen-cent Hollow Horn Bear stamp?
Authentication requires expertise. Consulting reputable philatelic authenticators or experienced dealers is recommended to verify a stamp’s genuineness.
Question 5: Where can one find more information about this stamp and its historical context?
Resources such as the Smithsonian National Postal Museum, philatelic libraries, and online archives offer further information regarding the stamp, Chief Hollow Horn Bear, and the historical context of its issuance.
Question 6: How should one store this stamp to ensure its preservation?
Archival-quality materials, including acid-free albums and protective sleeves, are crucial for safeguarding the stamp from environmental damage and preserving its condition for future generations. Minimizing exposure to light, humidity, and temperature fluctuations is also essential.
The information provided here offers a starting point for understanding the significance of the 1923 fourteen-cent Hollow Horn Bear stamp. Further research is encouraged for a more comprehensive understanding of its historical, cultural, and philatelic importance.
For those interested in further exploration, detailed articles, historical analyses, and philatelic resources are available to provide deeper insights.
American Indian 14 Cent Stamp
Exploration of the 1923 fourteen-cent stamp featuring Chief Hollow Horn Bear reveals a multifaceted artifact encompassing historical, cultural, and philatelic significance. From its unique denomination and design to its portrayal of a prominent Native American leader, the stamp offers valuable insights into the complex relationship between the United States government and Indigenous communities during the early 20th century. Its issuance coincided with a period of evolving social attitudes and ongoing political debates concerning Native American representation and rights. The stamp’s enduring presence in philatelic collections and historical analyses underscores its lasting impact on cultural memory and its continued relevance for understanding the past.
The 1923 fourteen-cent stamp serves as a tangible reminder of the complexities of representation and the enduring power of historical artifacts. Continued examination of this seemingly small piece of postal history offers opportunities for deeper reflection on the ongoing impact of past policies and the importance of nuanced historical understanding. Further research and engagement with primary source materials promise to illuminate the multifaceted legacy of this historically significant stamp and its enduring contribution to broader discussions of cultural identity, political power, and historical memory.
