This specific stamp, featuring George Washington in blue and with a five-cent denomination, represents a particular period in United States postal history. Issued [insert date range or specific year of issue here], it served as postage for standard letters and postcards within the country during that time. Examples often exhibit variations in shade and condition, reflecting their age and usage. These variations are frequently categorized by philatelists based on specific printing characteristics, paper type, and cancellation marks.
The historical significance of this postal artifact lies in its everyday use by a generation of Americans. It provides a tangible connection to the past, offering insights into communication practices and postal rates of the era. Preserved examples serve as valuable resources for historians and collectors, contributing to a deeper understanding of this period’s social and economic landscape. The stamp’s design, featuring a prominent historical figure, also reinforces national identity and historical memory.
Further exploration will delve into the specific printing methods employed in its creation, detailed descriptions of its design elements, and a comprehensive analysis of its market value within the current philatelic landscape. Additionally, the impact of this stamp on postal history will be examined, including its role in facilitating communication and its place within the broader context of stamp collecting and historical preservation.
Tips for Collectors of the 1967-74 Five-Cent Washington Stamp
Careful consideration of several factors contributes to informed collecting and potential investment value appreciation related to the 1967-74 five-cent Washington stamp, often referred to by its color.
Tip 1: Condition Assessment: Evaluate the stamp’s condition meticulously. Factors such as centering, gum condition (if unused), and the presence of any flaws like tears or thin spots significantly influence value.
Tip 2: Shade Variations: Recognize that subtle color variations exist. Distinguishing between shades can be challenging but crucial for accurate identification and valuation.
Tip 3: Plate Blocks and Position: Stamps from the corner or edge of a printing plate are often more desirable due to unique plate markings. Full plate blocks can command premium prices.
Tip 4: Cancellation Types: Different cancellation marks reflect the stamp’s usage history and can add or detract from value. A clear, unobtrusive cancellation is generally preferred.
Tip 5: Proper Storage: Protect stamps from environmental factors such as light, humidity, and temperature fluctuations. Archival-quality storage materials are recommended.
Tip 6: Authentication and Expertise: Consulting with reputable philatelic experts or seeking professional authentication can be beneficial, especially for potentially valuable specimens.
Tip 7: Market Research: Understand current market trends and pricing. Utilizing reputable price guides and auction results provides valuable insights.
By adhering to these guidelines, collectors can enhance their understanding of this specific stamp, make informed decisions, and potentially maximize the long-term value of their collection.
This information serves as a starting point for more in-depth research into the intricacies of this specific stamp issue and its significance within the larger context of philately.
1. Color
The blue hue of the 1967-74 five-cent Washington stamp serves several key functions. Distinguishing it from other denominations issued concurrently, the color aids quick visual identification for postal workers and the public. This facilitated efficient mail processing during a period of high postal volume. Furthermore, the specific shade of blue contributes to the stamp’s aesthetic appeal, a factor influencing its collectability. Color variations within this issue, while subtle, add complexity and provide opportunities for specialized collecting based on shade nuances. The choice of blue also carries symbolic weight, potentially evoking themes of stability and trustworthiness associated with the nation and its first president. Examples of these stamps often exhibit color shifts due to aging and exposure to light, highlighting the importance of proper storage for preservation.
Analyzing the blue color’s impact requires consideration of the printing processes employed. Variations in ink batches and printing techniques contribute to the aforementioned shade differences. These variations, meticulously cataloged by philatelists, become critical factors in determining a stamp’s rarity and value. Understanding these nuances necessitates careful observation and comparison, often aided by specialized philatelic tools and resources. The study of these color variations offers valuable insights into the technical aspects of stamp production during this period and adds another layer of complexity to the stamp’s overall significance.
In summary, the blue color of the 1967-74 five-cent Washington stamp transcends mere aesthetics. It represents a deliberate design choice with practical implications for postal operations, symbolic connotations related to national identity, and significant ramifications for collectors focused on identifying and preserving specific color varieties. Challenges in accurately distinguishing between shades necessitate specialized knowledge and resources, underscoring the intricate details that contribute to the study and appreciation of this particular stamp issue.
2. Subject
The depiction of George Washington on the 1967-74 five-cent stamp reinforces the enduring connection between national iconography and postal communication. Washington’s image, a recurring motif in American visual culture, lends an air of authority and historical continuity to the stamp. This choice reflects a deliberate effort to associate everyday postal transactions with foundational national figures, thereby strengthening a sense of shared heritage. The stamp’s widespread circulation during this period ensured frequent exposure to Washington’s likeness, subtly reinforcing his symbolic importance within the public consciousness. This visual reinforcement arguably contributed to maintaining Washington’s prominence in the national memory. Examples of other stamps featuring prominent historical figures further demonstrate this practice of leveraging national iconography for symbolic and communicative purposes.
The specific portrayal of Washington on this stamp, characterized by a specific profile view and a generally consistent design across the issue’s lifespan, contributes to its recognizability. This consistency allows for immediate identification, even among casual observers. Variations in printing and engraving techniques, however, introduce subtle distinctions between different print runs, offering opportunities for detailed philatelic study. These subtle differences, often discernible only through careful examination, underscore the depth of information encoded within seemingly simple design elements. The use of Washington’s image, coupled with the stamp’s denomination and color, creates a cohesive visual message signifying both monetary value and national identity.
In summary, the selection of George Washington as the subject of this five-cent stamp transcends mere portraiture. It represents a strategic deployment of a potent national symbol within the context of everyday postal communication. This choice contributes to the stamp’s historical significance and provides a lens through which to examine the interplay between visual culture, national identity, and the practicalities of postal operations during this specific era. Challenges in differentiating subtle variations in Washington’s portrayal across different print runs underscore the complexity inherent in philatelic study and highlight the rich layers of historical and technical information embedded within this seemingly simple artifact.
3. Denomination
The five-cent denomination of the 1967-74 blue Washington stamp provides crucial context for understanding its role within the postal system and its significance for collectors. This specific face value reflects the standard first-class postage rate during the period of the stamp’s circulation. Examining the five-cent denomination illuminates the economic realities of postal communication at the time and contributes to a more nuanced appreciation of the stamp’s historical context. The interplay between denomination, design, and usage provides a rich area of inquiry for philatelists and historians alike.
- Postage Rate Context
The five-cent denomination directly reflects the cost of sending a standard letter through the U.S. Postal Service during the stamp’s period of use. This cost represents a specific point in the historical evolution of postal rates, offering insights into economic factors influencing communication practices. Comparing this rate to earlier and later periods provides a valuable perspective on the changing affordability of postal services.
- Affordability and Accessibility
The relatively low cost of five cents made mailing a letter accessible to a broad segment of the population. This affordability contributed to the widespread use of postal communication as a primary means of personal and business correspondence. The five-cent rate facilitated the exchange of information and fostered social connections across geographical distances during this period.
- Impact on Stamp Printing and Distribution
The high demand for five-cent stamps necessitated large-scale printing and efficient distribution networks. The sheer volume of stamps produced during this period contributes to their relative abundance today, impacting their current market value for collectors. Understanding production figures provides valuable context for assessing the rarity of specific varieties within this issue.
- Philatelic Significance of Denomination
While common, the five-cent Washington stamp holds value for collectors due to its historical significance and the existence of variations within the issue. Factors such as printing errors, color shades, and cancellation types contribute to nuanced distinctions among individual stamps, creating opportunities for specialized collecting and study.
The five-cent denomination of the blue Washington stamp provides a crucial link between the practicalities of postal operations and the broader historical context of communication and commerce during this period. By exploring the denomination’s relationship to postal rates, affordability, production volume, and philatelic value, we gain a deeper understanding of the stamp’s significance as both a historical artifact and a collectible item. Further research into contemporary postal regulations and economic data can provide additional insights into the societal impact of the five-cent postage rate during this era.
4. Issue Date
The 1967-74 issue date defines the period of production and usage for this specific five-cent Washington stamp, distinguished by its blue color. This timeframe provides crucial historical context, linking the stamp to the social, political, and economic landscape of the era. Understanding this period illuminates the stamp’s significance beyond its face value and contributes to a more comprehensive appreciation of its place within postal and cultural history.
- Postal Rate Stability
The 1967-74 period represents an era of relative stability in first-class postage rates, with the five-cent rate persisting throughout this timeframe. This stability allowed for consistent usage of the stamp, contributing to its widespread distribution and familiarity within the public sphere. The consistent rate contrasts with periods of frequent price adjustments, highlighting the economic climate of the late 1960s and early 1970s.
- Printing Technology and Design
Printing technologies and design elements of postage stamps evolved during the 1967-74 timeframe. Examining the specific printing methods employed for this issue reveals insights into the technical capabilities of the era and contributes to understanding variations within the stamp’s production run. Variations in shade and perforation can often be attributed to specific periods within this timeframe, providing further areas for philatelic study.
- Historical Context and Cultural Significance
The late 1960s and early 1970s witnessed significant social and political change in the United States. The blue Washington stamp circulated during this tumultuous period, serving as a silent witness to historical events. Its presence on everyday correspondence provides a tangible link to this era, offering a unique perspective on the intersection of postal history and broader cultural shifts.
- Philatelic Implications of the Issue Date
The 1967-74 issue date demarcates this particular stamp within the broader context of Washington philately. This defined period allows collectors to identify and categorize these stamps accurately, facilitating organized collecting and specialized study. Understanding the timeframe of production informs assessments of rarity and value, as specific variations within the issue can often be linked to particular years within this seven-year span.
The 1967-74 issue date of the blue Washington five-cent stamp provides a crucial framework for understanding its historical and philatelic significance. By analyzing the interplay between postal rates, printing technologies, historical context, and collecting practices during this period, a deeper appreciation for this seemingly ubiquitous artifact emerges. Further exploration of contemporary postal records and cultural archives can provide additional insights into the stamp’s role within the broader narrative of American history.
5. Usage
The designation “standard postage” for the 1967-74 blue Washington five-cent stamp signifies its primary function within the United States postal system during that period. This classification provides insight into the stamp’s widespread utility and its role in facilitating everyday communication. Analysis of its usage reveals connections to prevailing postal rates, communication practices, and the stamp’s overall impact on society.
- First-Class Mail
The five-cent denomination aligned with the standard first-class mail rate for single-ounce letters, making this stamp the workhorse of personal and business correspondence. Its usage facilitated the exchange of written communication across the nation, contributing to the social and economic fabric of the era. Millions of letters bearing this stamp traveled through the postal system, documenting everyday lives and historical events.
- Postcards
The five-cent rate also applied to postcards, a popular and economical means of brief communication. The blue Washington stamp frequently adorned postcards, conveying greetings, travel updates, and short messages. Its presence on postcards offers a glimpse into the more casual forms of written communication prevalent during this period. Examples of surviving postcards provide tangible evidence of this usage.
- Bulk Mailings with Make-Up Rates
While primarily associated with single-piece mail, the five-cent stamp also played a role in bulk mailings through calculated make-up rates. Postal regulations allowed for combining multiple stamps to meet the required postage for heavier items or packages. This extended the stamp’s utility beyond single letters and postcards, illustrating its adaptability within the postal system.
- Metered Mail Supplementation
While metered mail gained popularity during this period, the blue Washington stamp served as a crucial supplement for individuals and businesses without access to postage meters. This ensured continued accessibility to postal services for a broad range of users, regardless of their mailing volume or technological resources. The stamp’s availability provided a reliable alternative for fulfilling postage requirements.
The “standard postage” designation of the blue Washington five-cent stamp underscores its pervasive presence in American society during the 1967-74 period. Its usage facilitated various forms of communication, from personal letters to business correspondence and bulk mailings. Examining this usage provides valuable insights into the postal system’s mechanics, the communication practices of the era, and the stamp’s role in connecting individuals and businesses across the nation. Further research into postal records and period correspondence can reveal additional nuances regarding the stamp’s usage patterns and its impact on communication during this timeframe.
6. Collectability
The “moderate” collectability rating associated with the 1967-74 five-cent blue Washington stamp reflects a confluence of factors influencing its desirability among philatelists. High production numbers during its period of usage resulted in widespread availability, generally diminishing rarity and, consequently, market value. However, several factors contribute to sustained interest among collectors, preventing it from being classified as a purely common stamp. Variations in printing, perforation, and subtle shade differences create opportunities for specialized collecting within this issue. These nuances often necessitate meticulous examination and comparison, adding a layer of complexity that appeals to dedicated philatelists.
The presence of plate blocks, featuring the marginal markings from the printing plate, elevates the collectability of certain examples. Full or partial plate blocks command higher prices than individual stamps due to their relative scarcity and the additional information they provide about the printing process. Similarly, errors and flaws, while generally diminishing a stamp’s value, can paradoxically increase desirability for collectors specializing in such anomalies. A misplaced perforation or an off-center printing, while unintentional, can transform a common stamp into a unique and sought-after item within specific collecting niches. Examples of such errors, documented in philatelic catalogs and online resources, illustrate this phenomenon.
The moderate collectability of this stamp represents a balance between its commonality and the potential for specialized collecting based on variations and flaws. While not exceptionally rare, it offers sufficient depth and complexity to attract a dedicated segment of the philatelic community. This nuanced understanding of its collectability informs pricing and collecting strategies, allowing collectors to make informed decisions regarding acquisition and potential investment. Challenges in accurately identifying and valuing specific varieties within this issue underscore the importance of consulting reputable philatelic resources and seeking expert opinions when necessary. Its widespread availability, combined with the potential for specialized collecting, positions this stamp within a readily accessible yet engaging segment of the philatelic market.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the 1967-74 five-cent blue Washington stamp, providing concise and informative responses.
Question 1: What distinguishes the 1967-74 five-cent Washington stamp from other Washington stamps?
The specific shade of blue, combined with the timeframe of issue (1967-1974), differentiates this particular stamp from other Washington issues. Careful examination of color and any accompanying plate number information is crucial for accurate identification.
Question 2: How can one determine the value of a 1967-74 five-cent blue Washington stamp?
Several factors influence value, including condition, centering, and the presence of any flaws or variations. Consulting reputable stamp catalogs or seeking professional appraisals provides accurate valuations.
Question 3: Are there notable variations within this stamp issue?
Subtle shade variations and different perforation types exist within the 1967-74 issue. Plate block positions also differentiate stamps. These variations impact collectibility and potential market value.
Question 4: What is the significance of plate blocks for this stamp?
Plate blocks, containing marginal markings from the printing plate, provide valuable information about the stamp’s production. They are generally more collectible and often command higher prices than individual stamps.
Question 5: Where can one find reliable information about this specific stamp issue?
Reputable philatelic societies, stamp catalogs, online databases, and experienced stamp dealers offer reliable information and resources for collectors.
Question 6: What storage methods best preserve these stamps’ condition?
Archival-quality materials, such as acid-free albums and mounts, protect stamps from environmental damage. Minimizing exposure to light, humidity, and temperature fluctuations ensures long-term preservation.
Understanding these key aspects facilitates informed collecting and fosters a deeper appreciation for this specific stamp’s historical and philatelic significance. Further research utilizing reputable resources enhances knowledge and contributes to responsible collecting practices.
Further sections will delve into detailed analyses of specific design elements, printing variations, and market trends related to the 1967-74 five-cent blue Washington stamp.
Conclusion
Examination of the 1967-74 five-cent blue Washington stamp reveals a seemingly simple artifact’s surprising complexity. Analysis of its color, subject, denomination, issue date, usage, and collectability provides valuable insights into postal history, printing technologies, and the cultural landscape of the era. While often overlooked due to its commonality, this stamp offers a tangible connection to a specific period in American history, documented through millions of letters and postcards bearing its image. Subtle variations within the issue provide opportunities for specialized collecting, adding depth and intrigue for dedicated philatelists. Its readily available nature makes it an accessible entry point for those new to stamp collecting, while the nuances of its production and usage offer continued engagement for seasoned enthusiasts.
The five-cent blue Washington stamp serves as a reminder that even everyday objects hold historical significance. Further research and exploration within philatelic resources can illuminate the intricate details and broader historical context surrounding this seemingly ubiquitous artifact. Preserving these stamps contributes to maintaining a tangible link to the past, allowing future generations to connect with the communication practices and cultural climate of the late 1960s and early 1970s. Continued study of these seemingly minor details enriches historical understanding and underscores the importance of preserving even the most commonplace artifacts of the past.
