This postage, issued in 1993, commemorates the iconic American musician, Elvis Presley. Part of the United States Postal Service’s “Legends of American Music” series, it features a youthful image of the performer and quickly became a popular collectible item. The stamp represents a specific denomination for mailing standard letters at the time of its release.
The commemorative stamp’s significance lies in its recognition of Presley’s cultural impact on American music and society. Its release generated renewed interest in the artist’s legacy, especially among younger generations. Furthermore, it serves as a historical artifact, reflecting the postal rates and design aesthetics of the early 1990s. The stamp’s popularity also contributed to philately, the study and collection of stamps.
Further exploration could delve into the design process behind the stamp, the public’s reaction to its release, its current market value among collectors, and its place within the broader context of Elvis Presley memorabilia and the “Legends of American Music” series.
Tips for Collectors of the 1993 Elvis Presley Commemorative Postage
The following tips offer guidance for individuals interested in acquiring or preserving this piece of American cultural and postal history.
Tip 1: Condition is Key: Like any collectible, condition significantly impacts value. Seek stamps with vibrant colors, sharp corners, and intact perforations. Minimize handling to prevent creasing and smudging.
Tip 2: Beware of Counterfeits: Reproductions exist. Verify authenticity through reputable dealers or philatelic experts. Compare the stamp’s features with documented characteristics, paying close attention to printing details.
Tip 3: Understand Variations: Different printing methods and sheet positions can create subtle variations. Research these nuances to enhance collecting knowledge and potentially identify rarer versions.
Tip 4: Proper Storage is Essential: Protect the stamp from light, humidity, and temperature fluctuations. Archival-quality albums or mounts are recommended for long-term preservation.
Tip 5: Research Current Market Value: Consult stamp catalogs, online marketplaces, and auction records to understand the stamp’s current worth. This information is crucial for both buying and selling.
Tip 6: Consider Professional Grading: For valuable specimens, professional grading and authentication by a recognized philatelic organization can enhance their marketability and protect against future disputes regarding condition and authenticity.
By following these guidelines, collectors can confidently navigate the market, make informed decisions, and preserve this iconic piece of postal and musical history.
These tips provide a starting point for building a meaningful collection. Deeper exploration into the world of philately will further enhance one’s appreciation of this and other commemorative stamps.
1. Commemorative Postage
Commemorative postage represents a distinct category of stamps issued to honor individuals, events, or significant themes. Unlike definitive stamps intended for everyday use, commemoratives celebrate specific aspects of culture, history, or national identity. The 1993 Elvis Presley stamp exemplifies this practice, recognizing the musician’s contribution to American music.
- Honoring Individuals:
Commemorative stamps frequently feature prominent figures. These individuals often represent fields like arts, sciences, sports, or politics. The Elvis stamp falls within this category, celebrating a pivotal figure in American popular music. This practice acknowledges an individual’s enduring legacy and cultural impact.
- Marking Historical Events:
Significant events, anniversaries, or historical milestones also constitute common commemorative themes. These stamps serve as reminders of pivotal moments in a nation’s history. While the Elvis stamp focuses on an individual, it indirectly commemorates the era of rock and roll and its influence on American society.
- Promoting Cultural Themes:
Commemorative postage can highlight important cultural themes, traditions, or values. These themes may encompass national symbols, artistic movements, or social causes. The Elvis stamp, while dedicated to a single person, reflects the broader cultural impact of rock and roll music in the United States.
- Philatelic Value and Collectibility:
Commemorative stamps often hold significant appeal for collectors. Their limited production runs, specific themes, and artistic designs contribute to their desirability. The Elvis stamp, given the musician’s enduring popularity, quickly became a sought-after collectible, exceeding its initial postal function.
The Elvis Presley stamp embodies the core principles of commemorative postage. It serves not only as a tribute to an individual but also as a reflection of broader cultural trends, solidifying its place within philatelic history. The stamps enduring appeal among collectors demonstrates the lasting power of commemorative postage to capture and preserve significant aspects of cultural memory.
2. 1993 Issuance
The year 1993 marks a specific point in the history of the Elvis Presley 29-cent stamp, representing its official release date by the United States Postal Service. Understanding the context surrounding this date provides insight into the stamp’s significance and cultural impact.
- Renewed Cultural Interest:
The 1990s witnessed a resurgence of interest in Elvis Presley, fueled by various factors including the release of the “Elvis: The King of Rock ‘n’ Roll” CD box set in 1992 and the ongoing fascination with his legacy. The stamp’s release in 1993 capitalized on this renewed interest, offering a tangible piece of memorabilia for fans and collectors.
- Postal Rates and Design:
The 29-cent denomination reflects the standard first-class mail rate in 1993. The stamp’s design, featuring a young Elvis, also embodies the graphic aesthetics of the period. Analyzing these elements provides a glimpse into the postal practices and design trends of the early 1990s.
- Philatelic Context:
The stamp’s release coincided with the ongoing popularity of stamp collecting. Its inclusion in the “Legends of American Music” series further enhanced its appeal to philatelists. The 1993 issuance date places the stamp within a specific philatelic timeframe, contributing to its historical and collectible value.
- Commemorative Practices:
The decision to issue an Elvis Presley stamp in 1993 reflects the broader practice of commemorating cultural icons through postage. This act recognized Presley’s enduring contribution to American music and his status as a cultural figure. The timing of the stamp’s release demonstrates the USPS’s recognition of Elvis’s continued relevance and appeal.
The 1993 issuance date provides crucial context for understanding the Elvis Presley stamp’s significance. This date connects the stamp to specific cultural trends, postal practices, and philatelic history. Examining the convergence of these factors contributes to a deeper appreciation of the stamp’s value and lasting impact.
3. Elvis Presley Image
The image of Elvis Presley featured on the 1993 29-cent stamp constitutes a crucial element of its design and overall significance. This visual representation contributes directly to the stamp’s recognition, collectibility, and cultural impact. Analysis of the chosen image provides insight into the stamp’s purpose and its connection to Presley’s legacy.
- Young Elvis Depiction:
The stamp portrays a young Elvis, evoking the period of his early career and rise to fame. This specific image resonates with the dynamism and energy associated with rock and roll’s formative years. It captures the iconic image of Elvis before he became a global superstar, appealing to nostalgia and a sense of the artist’s origins.
- Iconic Pose and Styling:
The image captures Elvis in a recognizable pose, often associated with publicity photos from the 1950s. His hairstyle, clothing, and expression contribute to the stamp’s immediate identification with the performer. These visual cues reinforce the stamp’s connection to Elvis’s established iconography, strengthening its visual appeal and cultural relevance.
- Monochromatic Representation:
The stamp’s design utilizes a monochromatic color scheme, typical of postage stamps at the time. This approach simplifies the image while emphasizing its essential features. The limited color palette contributes to the stamp’s classic and timeless quality. While monochromatic, the image retains clarity and detail, ensuring Elvis remains recognizable.
- Symbolic Significance:
The chosen image functions as more than just a likeness; it serves as a symbol of Elvis’s cultural impact and enduring legacy. The image encapsulates the energy and rebellion associated with rock and roll, solidifying Elvis’s place as a cultural icon. The stamp’s visual representation thus transcends its postal function, becoming a miniature tribute to a significant figure in American music history.
The Elvis Presley image on the 29-cent stamp is integral to its meaning and value. The selection of a youthful and iconic portrayal of the artist reinforces the stamp’s commemorative purpose. The image, combined with the stamp’s other features, contributes to its lasting appeal among collectors and its recognition as a symbol of Elvis Presley’s enduring cultural influence.
4. USPS "Legends"
The “Legends of American Music” series, initiated by the United States Postal Service, provides a crucial framework for understanding the significance of the Elvis Presley 29-cent stamp. This series, dedicated to honoring influential American musicians, established a precedent for recognizing cultural figures through postage. The inclusion of Elvis Presley within this series acknowledges his profound impact on American music and popular culture. The series itself contributes to the stamp’s collectibility and historical context. Other musicians featured in the series include Hank Williams, Buddy Holly, and Robert Johnson, further demonstrating the program’s focus on celebrating key figures in American musical history. The Elvis stamp, by virtue of its inclusion in this series, gains added significance as part of a larger narrative of American musical heritage.
The “Legends” series strategically connects individual artists to a broader cultural narrative. This programmatic approach strengthens the individual stamps’ meaning by placing them within a recognized pantheon of musical greats. The series also created a cohesive collecting theme for philatelists and music enthusiasts. The selection of Elvis Presley for this series underscores his status as a foundational figure in rock and roll and reinforces his enduring legacy within American music. The series’ existence amplifies the individual stamp’s message, transforming it from a simple commemorative item into a component of a larger narrative celebrating American musical heritage. The series fosters a sense of continuity and historical perspective, linking individual artists to a shared cultural lineage.
The “Legends” series provides a valuable lens for interpreting the Elvis Presley stamp’s cultural significance. The stamp’s inclusion within this series underscores the USPS’s recognition of Presley’s enduring influence. Understanding the series’ broader scope provides collectors and enthusiasts with a deeper appreciation of the stamp’s place within American philatelic and musical history. The “Legends” series serves as a testament to the power of postage stamps to celebrate cultural figures and contribute to national narratives. The Elvis Presley stamp, as a prominent component of this series, benefits from this association, solidifying its status as a meaningful collectible and a tribute to a pivotal figure in American music. The series itself continues to influence how the USPS commemorates cultural figures, ensuring that significant contributors to American music are recognized and remembered.
5. 29-cent denomination
The 29-cent denomination of the Elvis Presley stamp directly connects it to the postal rates effective at its 1993 release. This seemingly mundane detail provides crucial context, linking the stamp to the practical realities of mail delivery while also contributing to its historical significance and collectibility.
- First-Class Mail Rate:
The 29-cent denomination represented the standard cost of sending a one-ounce first-class letter within the United States in 1993. This fact grounds the Elvis stamp within the everyday function of the postal system. While commemorative, it served a practical purpose, reflecting the cost of mailing a letter at that specific time. This connection to postal history adds another layer of significance to the stamp for collectors and historians.
- Historical Postal Rates:
Postal rates fluctuate over time due to economic factors and operational adjustments within the United States Postal Service. The 29-cent rate provides a specific historical marker, allowing future researchers to understand the cost of mailing during that era. The stamp serves as a tangible record of past postal rates, providing a concrete example for historical analysis and comparison with other periods.
- Collectibility and Value:
The denomination contributes to the stamp’s collectibility. While not the primary factor determining value, it plays a role in distinguishing it within the broader context of Elvis Presley memorabilia and philatelic materials. Collectors often seek stamps in specific denominations to complete sets or document the history of postal rates. The 29-cent denomination contributes to the stamp’s unique identity within the philatelic market.
- Relationship to Definitive Stamps:
Definitive stamps, unlike commemorative issues, are produced for general, ongoing use. The 29-cent Elvis stamp, while commemorative, shared its denomination with definitive stamps in circulation during the same period. This overlap highlights the dual nature of the Elvis stamp a commemorative item and a functional piece of postage. This connection reinforces its role within the broader postal system while distinguishing it as a special commemorative release.
The 29-cent denomination, far from being a trivial detail, enriches the Elvis Presley stamp’s narrative. It anchors the stamp to a specific moment in postal history, demonstrating its practical use alongside its commemorative purpose. This connection to everyday postal operations strengthens the stamp’s historical value and enhances its appeal among collectors and enthusiasts.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the 1993 Elvis Presley 29-cent commemorative postage stamp, providing concise and informative responses.
Question 1: What makes this stamp noteworthy?
Its significance derives from its commemoration of a prominent cultural figure, Elvis Presley, and its place within the USPS “Legends of American Music” series. It represents a convergence of cultural recognition, historical context, and philatelic interest.
Question 2: How can one determine the stamp’s authenticity?
Authentication relies on careful examination of printing details and comparison with documented characteristics. Consulting reputable dealers or philatelic experts is recommended for valuable specimens. Professional grading and authentication services provide additional assurance.
Question 3: What factors influence the stamp’s value?
Condition plays a crucial role. Stamps in pristine condition, with vibrant colors and intact perforations, command higher values. Rarity, determined by factors like printing variations or errors, also significantly impacts market value.
Question 4: Where can one acquire this stamp?
Potential sources include stamp dealers, online marketplaces, auctions, and philatelic societies. Thorough research and careful vetting of sellers are recommended to ensure authenticity and fair pricing.
Question 5: How should the stamp be stored for long-term preservation?
Archival-quality storage materials, such as acid-free albums or mounts, protect against environmental damage. Minimizing exposure to light, humidity, and temperature fluctuations is essential for preserving the stamp’s condition.
Question 6: Does the stamp retain any postal validity?
While technically valid for postage, using the stamp for mailing is generally discouraged due to its collectible value. Its significance lies primarily in its commemorative and historical value rather than its current postal function.
Careful consideration of these points provides a foundational understanding of the Elvis Presley commemorative stamp, assisting collectors and enthusiasts in making informed decisions regarding acquisition, preservation, and appreciation of this piece of philatelic and cultural history.
Further research into philately and Elvis Presley memorabilia offers a deeper exploration of this topic.
Conclusion
The Elvis Presley 29-cent stamp represents more than just a piece of postage; it embodies a convergence of cultural commemoration, postal history, and collectible appeal. Its 1993 issuance coincided with renewed interest in the artist’s legacy, capturing a specific moment in time. The stamp’s design, featuring a youthful Elvis, reinforces his iconic status. Its inclusion within the USPS “Legends of American Music” series further solidifies its significance within a broader cultural narrative. Even the 29-cent denomination offers a glimpse into the postal rates of the era. Each facet contributes to the stamp’s enduring value for collectors and its position as a tangible piece of American cultural history.
The stamp serves as a reminder of the power of postage to transcend its utilitarian function and become a vehicle for cultural memory. Continued exploration of such items offers valuable insights into the intersection of art, history, and popular culture. Preserving these artifacts ensures that future generations can connect with and learn from the rich tapestry of human expression.
