A postage stamp featuring General Douglas MacArthur was issued by the United States Postal Service in 1971 with a denomination of six cents. This stamp, part of the Prominent Americans series, depicted a portrait of the general in his iconic corncob pipe and military attire. It served as a common method for paying postage for standard letters within the United States at the time.
The issuance of this stamp reflects the significant role MacArthur played in American history, particularly during World War II and the Korean War. It represents a form of public commemoration and recognition of his military leadership and contributions to the nation. Philatelically, the stamp holds value for collectors as a piece of American postal and historical record. The stamps relatively low face value and widespread usage also provide a tangible and accessible artifact for those interested in learning more about this period in American history.
This exploration of the stamp serves as a starting point for a deeper dive into the life and legacy of General Douglas MacArthur, his impact on military strategy, and his enduring presence in the American historical narrative. Further research into specific aspects of his career, such as his involvement in the Pacific theater during World War II or his command during the Korean War, can provide richer context and a more complete understanding of the man honored on this six-cent piece of postal history.
Collecting and Preserving Philatelic Artifacts
Preserving historical artifacts like postage stamps requires attention to detail and proper handling. This section offers practical guidance for collectors seeking to maintain the condition and value of their philatelic items, using the 1971 six-cent Douglas MacArthur stamp as a representative example.
Tip 1: Handling with Care: Avoid direct contact with the stamp’s surface. Utilize stamp tongs to lift and position the stamp, preventing the transfer of oils and fingerprints which can degrade its condition over time.
Tip 2: Proper Storage: Store stamps in acid-free albums or archival-quality mounts. These materials protect against environmental damage caused by light, humidity, and airborne pollutants.
Tip 3: Protective Sleeves and Enclosures: Employ clear, archival-quality plastic sleeves or glassine envelopes for individual stamp protection. This prevents abrasion and minimizes exposure to harmful elements.
Tip 4: Controlled Environment: Maintain a stable environment for stamp storage. Avoid extremes of temperature and humidity, which can cause discoloration, brittleness, and other forms of damage.
Tip 5: Identification and Documentation: Accurately identify and document each stamp, including details like its issuance date, denomination, and any notable variations. This contributes to the stamp’s provenance and historical value.
Tip 6: Professional Appraisal: For rare or potentially valuable stamps, consult a qualified philatelic appraiser. Professional assessment establishes accurate market value and provides guidance on preservation strategies.
Implementing these practices contributes significantly to the long-term preservation of philatelic materials, safeguarding their historical significance and potential value for future generations.
By understanding and applying these preservation techniques, collectors can ensure the continued appreciation and study of historical artifacts like the 1971 six-cent Douglas MacArthur stamp, allowing these items to remain tangible links to the past.
1. General Douglas MacArthur
The 1971 six-cent stamp serves as a miniature tribute to General Douglas MacArthur, a prominent figure in 20th-century American history. Understanding MacArthur’s career and contributions provides crucial context for appreciating the stamp’s significance.
- Military Leadership:
MacArthur’s distinguished military career spanned over five decades, including key roles in World War I, World War II, and the Korean War. His leadership during these conflicts shaped military strategy and significantly impacted global events. The stamp acknowledges his military service and the respect he commanded.
- Pacific Theater Involvement:
MacArthur played a pivotal role in the Pacific Theater during World War II, leading Allied forces against Japan. His strategic decisions and command contributed significantly to the war’s outcome. The stamp implicitly references this critical period in his career and its impact on American history.
- Post-War Administration of Japan:
Following World War II, MacArthur oversaw the Allied occupation and democratization of Japan. His leadership during this period shaped Japan’s post-war development and its relationship with the United States. While not explicitly depicted on the stamp, this aspect of his career contributes to his overall historical significance.
- Korean War Command:
MacArthur also commanded United Nations forces during the Korean War. His strategic decisions and actions significantly influenced the course of the conflict. The stamp represents a broader recognition of his involvement in this war and its complexities.
By exploring these facets of MacArthur’s career, one gains a deeper understanding of the individual commemorated on the six-cent stamp. The stamp serves not only as a postal artifact but also as a gateway to exploring a significant period in American and world history, reminding us of the complexities of leadership, conflict, and international relations.
2. Six-cent denomination
The six-cent denomination of the 1971 Douglas MacArthur stamp provides a specific historical context, reflecting the standard first-class postage rate in the United States at that time. This seemingly minor detail offers insights into postal history, economic conditions, and the stamp’s practical function within its historical timeframe.
- First-Class Postage Rate:
Six cents represented the cost to mail a standard letter within the United States in 1971. This connects the stamp to everyday postal operations and the cost of communication during that era. Examining historical postal rates reveals trends in inflation and the evolving economics of mail delivery.
- Affordability and Accessibility:
The relatively low cost of six cents made mailing a letter accessible to a broad population. This affordability contributed to the widespread use of postal services for personal and business communication, making stamps like the MacArthur issue commonplace items.
- Historical Context of Postal Rates:
Comparing the six-cent rate to earlier and later postage costs illustrates changes in economic conditions and postal service operations. Researching these fluctuations provides valuable insights into broader economic trends and the impact of inflation on consumer services.
- Philatelic Implications:
The stamp’s common usage due to its role as a standard postage payment means numerous examples exist today. This widespread availability influences its current market value for collectors, distinguishing it from rarer, less frequently used stamps.
Analyzing the six-cent denomination of the MacArthur stamp provides a tangible connection to the economic and social realities of 1971. It highlights the stamp’s practical function beyond its commemorative purpose, offering a glimpse into the history of postal rates and their reflection of broader economic trends. This detailed examination enriches our understanding of the stamp as a historical artifact, connecting it to everyday life in the United States during that period.
3. 1971 issuance
The 1971 issuance date of the Douglas MacArthur six-cent stamp holds specific relevance. This year marks a point several years after MacArthur’s death in 1964, suggesting a deliberate choice by the United States Postal Service to commemorate his legacy. 1971 falls within a specific sociopolitical context in American history, marked by the ongoing Vietnam War and evolving public perspectives on military engagement. Issuing a stamp honoring a prominent military figure during this period likely resonated with particular segments of American society while potentially generating discussion and differing opinions regarding MacArthur’s complex legacy.
The 1971 date also situates the stamp within a particular period of postal history. Analyzing postal policies, printing techniques, and distribution methods from 1971 provides further insight into the stamp’s production and circulation. Comparing the stamp’s design and production to other stamps issued in the same year reveals contemporary aesthetic trends and printing technologies within the postal service. This comparative analysis enhances understanding of the stamp’s place within the broader context of postal history and design.
Understanding the significance of the 1971 issuance date provides a crucial framework for analyzing the Douglas MacArthur six-cent stamp. It links the stamp to a specific historical moment, allowing for a more nuanced interpretation of its commemorative purpose and public reception. Further research into the social, political, and cultural climate of 1971 offers deeper insights into the stamp’s intended message and its impact on the American public. This contextual understanding enhances the stamp’s value as a historical artifact, moving beyond its simple function as postage and revealing its layered significance within American history.
4. Postage stamp format
The postage stamp format of the 1971 six-cent Douglas MacArthur item inherently dictates its function, presentation, and historical context. Understanding the standardized format of postage stamps provides crucial insights into the MacArthur stamp’s design choices, production methods, and intended usage. This exploration delves into the specific aspects of postage stamp format and their relevance to the MacArthur stamp.
- Size and Shape:
Postage stamps adhere to standardized dimensions, ensuring compatibility with postal processing equipment and facilitating efficient handling. The MacArthur stamp’s specific size and rectangular shape reflect these practical considerations. Variations in size and shape across different stamp issues can reveal evolving postal technologies and design preferences.
- Perforations:
Perforations along the edges of stamps allow for easy separation from a sheet, streamlining postal operations and individual usage. The presence and type of perforations on the MacArthur stamp provide insights into printing technologies and postal practices of the era. Variations in perforation gauge (the number of perforations per two centimeters) offer clues to different printing methods and can be a distinguishing feature for collectors.
- Gumming:
The adhesive backing, or gum, on the reverse side of the stamp allows for its affixation to mail. The type of gum used on the MacArthur stamp reflects period-specific adhesive technologies. Changes in gum formulations over time offer clues to material science advancements and their application in postal contexts. The condition of the gum can also be a factor in assessing a stamp’s value for collectors.
- Printing Method:
Various printing methods, including engraving, lithography, and offset printing, have been employed in stamp production. The specific method utilized for the MacArthur stamp impacts its visual appearance, detail, and overall quality. Understanding these different printing methods allows for a deeper appreciation of the technical artistry involved in stamp production.
Analyzing the postage stamp format of the MacArthur item provides valuable context, illuminating its creation, usage, and historical significance. By considering these seemingly technical details, one gains a deeper understanding of the stamp as a physical object and its function within the larger postal system. These insights contribute to a more comprehensive appreciation of the stamp as both a historical artifact and a piece of functional design.
5. Prominent Americans Series
The “Prominent Americans Series,” initiated by the United States Postal Service, provides a crucial framework for understanding the 1971 six-cent Douglas MacArthur stamp. This series sought to honor individuals who made significant contributions to American history, spanning various fields like politics, arts, sciences, and military service. Inclusion within this series elevates the MacArthur stamp beyond a mere postal artifact; it signifies official recognition of MacArthur’s importance within the national narrative. The series provides a thematic context, linking the MacArthur stamp to other stamps honoring notable figures, fostering a broader understanding of American history through philately. Examples include stamps featuring individuals like George Washington Carver, Robert Frost, and Helen Keller, each representing a distinct facet of American achievement.
The “Prominent Americans Series” contributes significantly to the MacArthur stamp’s commemorative purpose. By placing MacArthur alongside other notable Americans, the series reinforces his status as a key figure in the nation’s history. This association adds a layer of meaning for collectors and enthusiasts, encouraging further exploration of MacArthur’s life and accomplishments alongside those of other individuals featured in the series. The series also provides a valuable educational tool, offering a visual representation of American history and prompting further research into the lives and contributions of those featured.
Understanding the connection between the “Prominent Americans Series” and the Douglas MacArthur stamp enhances appreciation for its historical significance. The series provides crucial context, transforming the stamp from a simple piece of postal ephemera into a tangible representation of American history and achievement. Challenges remain in assessing the long-term impact of such commemorative efforts. However, the series undeniably contributes to public awareness and remembrance of key figures, ensuring their contributions remain acknowledged and explored by future generations. This understanding enriches the study of both individual figures like MacArthur and broader historical themes represented within the series, fostering a deeper appreciation for the complexities and nuances of the American past.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the 1971 six-cent Douglas MacArthur postage stamp, providing concise and informative responses.
Question 1: What is the historical significance of this stamp?
The stamp commemorates General Douglas MacArthur, recognizing his prominent role in American military history, particularly during World War II and the Korean War. It reflects his enduring impact on national and international affairs.
Question 2: Why was this stamp issued in 1971?
The 1971 issuance date falls several years after MacArthur’s death in 1964. This timing suggests a deliberate decision to commemorate his legacy and contributions. The specific historical context of 1971, including the ongoing Vietnam War, adds another layer of complexity to the stamp’s issuance.
Question 3: What is the value of this stamp today?
Due to its common usage as standard postage at the time, numerous examples exist, resulting in a relatively modest market value for collectors. However, condition, variations in printing, and potential errors can influence individual stamp values.
Question 4: What is the “Prominent Americans Series”?
This series, initiated by the United States Postal Service, features stamps honoring individuals who have made significant contributions to American society across various fields. The MacArthur stamp’s inclusion highlights his national importance.
Question 5: How was this stamp printed?
The specific printing method utilized for the MacArthur stamp was likely gravure, a common technique for postage stamp production during that period. However, confirming the precise method requires further research within philatelic resources.
Question 6: Where can one find more information about this stamp?
Philatelic societies, stamp catalogs, online databases, and postal history resources offer extensive information regarding specific stamp details, variations, and historical context.
Understanding these key aspects of the 1971 six-cent Douglas MacArthur stamp facilitates a deeper appreciation of its historical, cultural, and philatelic significance.
Further exploration of related topics, such as MacArthur’s military strategies, the historical context of 1971, or the “Prominent Americans Series,” can enrich understanding of this artifact and its connection to broader historical narratives.
Douglas MacArthur Six-Cent Stamp
Exploration of the Douglas MacArthur six-cent stamp reveals multifaceted significance. Issued in 1971, its face value reflects historical postage rates, offering a glimpse into economic conditions of the era. As part of the Prominent Americans series, the stamp commemorates MacArthur’s contributions to American history, particularly his military leadership during World War II and the Korean War. Analysis of its format, from perforations to printing methods, provides insights into postal practices and technologies of the time. The stamp serves as a tangible link to a specific historical moment, encapsulating broader themes of military history, national identity, and commemorative practices.
The stamp’s enduring presence in collections and archives underscores its value as a historical artifact. Continued examination of such items contributes to a deeper understanding of individuals like Douglas MacArthur, their impact on historical events, and the enduring power of commemorative objects. Further research into related areas postal history, 20th-century American history, and military leadership promises to yield richer insights and contribute to ongoing historical discourse.
