The 1938 six-cent postage stamp featuring President Franklin Delano Roosevelt is a significant piece of American philatelic history. This stamp, part of the Presidential Series, portrays a left-facing profile of the 32nd president. Examples can be found with varying shades and perforation types, adding to their collectible appeal for enthusiasts.
Issued during Roosevelt’s second term, this stamp reflects a period of significant social and political change in the United States. Its relatively high denomination for the time suggests its usage for heavier mailings or packages, offering a glimpse into postal practices of the era. The stamp’s ongoing popularity with collectors highlights its enduring historical relevance and its connection to a transformative presidency.
This exploration will delve deeper into the design, variations, and historical context surrounding this important piece of American ephemera. Topics covered will include the stamp’s production process, its place within the larger Presidential Series, and its significance to collectors today.
Tips for Collectors of the 1938 Six-Cent Presidential Series Stamp
Careful consideration of several factors contributes to successful collecting of the 1938 six-cent Roosevelt stamp. These tips provide guidance for both novice and experienced collectors.
Tip 1: Condition is Key: Examine stamps for centering, perforations, and gum condition. Well-centered stamps with intact perforations and original gum command higher values.
Tip 2: Recognize Variations: Be aware of different shade varieties and perforation types. These subtle differences can significantly impact a stamp’s value.
Tip 3: Research Pricing: Consult stamp catalogs and online resources to understand current market values. This knowledge helps in making informed purchasing decisions.
Tip 4: Proper Storage is Essential: Protect stamps from humidity, light, and pests. Archival-quality albums and mounts are recommended for long-term preservation.
Tip 5: Authentication Matters: For high-value examples, consider obtaining certificates of authenticity from reputable philatelic organizations. This safeguards against forgeries and provides additional provenance.
Tip 6: Network with Other Collectors: Joining stamp clubs and online forums allows for sharing knowledge and expanding collecting opportunities.
Tip 7: Patience is a Virtue: Building a valuable collection takes time and effort. Don’t rush the process; focus on acquiring quality examples.
By following these guidelines, collectors can build a meaningful and valuable collection of this historically significant stamp, preserving a piece of American history.
These tips provide a foundation for successful collecting. Further research and engagement with the philatelic community will enhance one’s understanding and appreciation of this fascinating area of study.
1. Presidential Series
The 1938 six-cent Franklin Delano Roosevelt stamp holds a significant place within the larger context of the Presidential Series. This series, initiated by the United States Postal Service, sought to honor past presidents through postage stamp depictions. The inclusion of Roosevelt within this series cemented his place within American history and provided a visual representation of his presidency for everyday use by the public. The series itself contributes to the stamp’s collectibility; it’s not merely a stamp featuring Roosevelt, but a component of a larger, historically significant philatelic endeavor. For example, collectors often seek to obtain complete sets of the Presidential Series, increasing the demand and value for individual stamps like the six-cent Roosevelt issue.
The Presidential Series provides a framework for understanding the design and purpose of the six-cent Roosevelt stamp. The consistent format employed across the seriesfeaturing presidential portraitsemphasizes the individual’s role as head of state. The six-cent Roosevelt stamp, therefore, functions not only as a postage element but also as a miniature piece of presidential memorabilia. The series’ existence enhances the historical context of the individual stamp, connecting it to a broader narrative of American leadership. This understanding allows collectors and historians to appreciate the stamp’s significance beyond its purely functional purpose. Moreover, it offers insight into the cultural climate of the 1930s, a period in which philately held a more prominent place in American society.
In conclusion, the six-cent Roosevelt stamps inclusion within the Presidential Series significantly contributes to its historical importance and value. The series provides a crucial framework for understanding the stamps design, purpose, and collectibility. Recognizing the interconnectedness between individual stamps and the larger series allows for a richer appreciation of American philatelic history and the role of postage stamps in commemorating national figures. Furthermore, the series serves as a reminder of the enduring power of visual representation in shaping public perception and historical memory.
2. 1938 Issuance
The 1938 issuance of the six-cent Franklin Delano Roosevelt stamp places it within a specific historical context. 1938 marked Roosevelt’s second term as president, a period characterized by continued efforts to address the Great Depression and growing international tensions leading up to World War II. This timing influences the stamp’s significance; it represents not just a portrait of the president but also a snapshot of a nation grappling with economic hardship and a rapidly changing global landscape. The stamp’s issuance coincided with evolving postal rates and regulations, influencing its usage and purpose. For instance, the six-cent denomination likely designated it for specific mailing categories, such as heavier packages or international correspondence, offering insights into postal practices of the era.
Understanding the 1938 issuance date allows for a deeper appreciation of the stamp’s historical relevance. It connects the stamp to the social, political, and economic climate of the time, enriching its meaning beyond its face value. Researching postal records from 1938 might reveal the volume of these stamps printed, offering insight into their prevalence and usage patterns. Comparing the stamp’s design and production to other stamps issued in the same year can reveal contemporary printing techniques and design trends. This level of analysis provides valuable context for collectors and historians, facilitating a richer understanding of the stamp’s place within philatelic history.
In summary, the 1938 issuance date of the six-cent Roosevelt stamp is crucial for understanding its historical significance. It connects the stamp to a specific moment in American history, providing valuable context for appreciating its design, purpose, and collectibility. Further research into the historical context of 1938 and its impact on postal practices will undoubtedly yield additional insights into the stamp’s relevance and enrich our understanding of its enduring value.
3. Six-cent denomination
The six-cent denomination of the 1938 Franklin Delano Roosevelt stamp provides crucial insight into postal rates and practices of the era. This seemingly minor detail offers a window into the economic conditions and communication patterns of the late 1930s. Exploring the implications of this specific denomination enhances understanding of the stamp’s historical context and usage.
- Postal Rates and Fees
Six cents represented a specific postal rate in 1938, likely designated for particular mail classes, such as heavier letters, packages, or international mail. Analyzing contemporary postal documents reveals the types of mail typically sent at this rate, illuminating communication trends of the period. This information contextualizes the stamp’s intended purpose and frequency of use.
- Economic Context
The six-cent rate reflects the economic landscape of the Great Depression era. Comparing this rate to earlier and later postal fees provides a gauge of economic fluctuations and their impact on postal services. This economic lens adds depth to the stamp’s historical significance, connecting it to broader societal trends.
- Printing and Production
The quantity of six-cent Roosevelt stamps printed reflects anticipated demand based on projected postal usage. Production figures offer insights into the scale of stamp production and distribution during this period. This data can be compared with production numbers for other denominations to understand relative usage patterns.
- Collectibility and Value
The six-cent denomination contributes to the stamp’s current collectibility. Rarity, condition, and demand influence a stamp’s value, and the six-cent Roosevelt stamp’s relative scarcity compared to lower denominations might enhance its desirability among collectors. Understanding historical usage patterns, influenced by the denomination, helps collectors assess a stamp’s potential value.
The six-cent denomination of the 1938 Roosevelt stamp is more than a simple numerical value; it offers a valuable lens through which to examine historical postal practices, economic conditions, and collecting trends. This detailed analysis enriches our understanding of the stamp’s significance, transforming it from a simple postage item into a tangible artifact reflecting a specific moment in American history. Further investigation into postal records and economic data from 1938 can illuminate the broader implications of this specific denomination and provide an even richer understanding of its historical context.
4. FDR Portrait
The portrait of Franklin Delano Roosevelt on the six-cent 1938 stamp is a crucial element of its design and historical significance. This depiction of the 32nd president contributes to the stamp’s collectibility, historical value, and overall impact. Analysis of the portrait’s specific features and its creation offers valuable insights into the stamp’s meaning and purpose.
- Artistic Representation
The portrait represents a specific artistic interpretation of Roosevelt’s likeness. Engravers employed specific techniques to capture his features, resulting in a stylized representation. Comparison with photographic portraits from the same period reveals artistic choices made in the stamp’s design, offering insight into contemporary portraiture styles and the challenges of miniaturizing presidential likenesses for reproduction on postage.
- Symbolic Significance
The portrait carries symbolic weight, representing not just Roosevelt’s physical appearance but also his presidential authority and leadership. The choice of a left-facing profile, consistent with other stamps in the Presidential Series, reinforces established conventions of portraiture on postage and currency, contributing to a sense of formality and official recognition. This symbolism elevates the stamp beyond a mere postage item, imbuing it with national significance.
- Public Perception
The widespread circulation of the six-cent stamp exposed millions to this specific portrait of Roosevelt. This repeated visual representation contributed to public perception of the president and his administration. Analyzing contemporary media and public discourse surrounding Roosevelt’s image offers insight into how this particular portrayal shaped public opinion during his second term.
- Philatelic Importance
The portrait’s quality and accuracy influence the stamp’s value among collectors. Variations in printing, ink color, and perforation can affect the portrait’s clarity and overall appearance, impacting the stamp’s desirability and market price. Collectors often scrutinize these details, recognizing the impact of even minute variations on a stamp’s collectibility.
The FDR portrait on the six-cent stamp is integral to its historical and philatelic significance. Understanding the artistic choices, symbolic meaning, public perception, and collectibility related to the portrait enhances appreciation for the stamp’s complexity and enduring value. Further research into portraiture traditions, stamp production techniques, and historical context provides a more comprehensive understanding of this important piece of American ephemera.
5. Collectible Item
The 1938 six-cent Franklin Delano Roosevelt stamp’s status as a collectible item stems from several converging factors. Its historical context, featuring a prominent president during a transformative period in American history, contributes significantly to its appeal. The stamp’s role as part of the larger Presidential Series further enhances its collectibility, placing it within a recognized and sought-after category. Variations in printing, such as shade and perforation differences, create distinct versions, adding another layer of complexity and desirability for collectors. Real-life examples include the discovery of rare color varieties or unique plate flaws, significantly increasing a particular stamp’s value and desirability within the philatelic market. These variations transform seemingly identical stamps into unique artifacts, fueling the pursuit among collectors to acquire complete and diverse sets.
The inherent historical value embedded within the stamp contributes to its collectibility. It serves as a tangible link to Roosevelt’s presidency and the era of the Great Depression and pre-World War II tensions. This tangible connection to a significant historical figure and period resonates with collectors who appreciate the stamp not merely as a postage item but as a historical artifact. The stamp’s age contributes to its scarcity, as many examples were used for postage and subsequently discarded, leaving a smaller pool of well-preserved specimens available for collectors. This inherent scarcity further drives demand and elevates the stamp’s value within the philatelic market. Specialized catalogs and online resources provide collectors with detailed information regarding known variations, facilitating informed decisions and enhancing the pursuit of specific and rare examples.
Understanding the factors contributing to the six-cent Roosevelt stamp’s collectibility provides valuable context for both seasoned philatelists and those new to stamp collecting. Recognizing the interplay of historical significance, production variations, and market demand allows collectors to make informed decisions regarding acquisition and preservation. The challenges in identifying and authenticating rare varieties contribute to the intellectual pursuit inherent in philately, transforming stamp collecting from a passive hobby into an active engagement with history and material culture. This understanding underscores the importance of careful examination, research, and proper preservation techniques in maintaining the integrity and value of these historical artifacts.
6. Historical Artifact
The 1938 six-cent Franklin Delano Roosevelt stamp transcends its utilitarian function as postage and serves as a tangible historical artifact. It offers a unique window into the political, social, and economic landscape of the United States during the late 1930s. Examining this stamp through the lens of a historical artifact reveals its multifaceted significance and provides a deeper understanding of its enduring value.
- Material Culture of the 1930s
The stamp embodies the material culture of its era. Its design, printing techniques, and paper stock reflect contemporary technologies and aesthetic sensibilities. Examining these physical attributes provides insights into the production processes and resources available during the Great Depression. The stamp’s widespread use as postage reflects communication practices of the time, offering a glimpse into how individuals and businesses corresponded during this period.
- Roosevelt’s Presidency and Legacy
The stamp’s central image, a portrait of President Roosevelt, solidifies its connection to his presidency and enduring legacy. It serves as a miniature, widely circulated representation of the president during his second term, a period marked by significant domestic and international challenges. The stamp’s ubiquity ensured Roosevelt’s image reached a broad cross-section of the American public, reinforcing his presence in the national consciousness.
- Postal History and Communication
The stamp’s six-cent denomination provides insights into postal rates and regulations of the 1930s. Researching contemporary postal documents reveals what types of mail typically required this specific denomination, offering clues about communication practices and the cost of sending letters and packages. This information illuminates the role of the postal service in facilitating communication during this period.
- Philatelic Preservation and Study
The stamp’s continued existence in collections underscores the importance of philately in preserving historical artifacts. Collectors meticulously document and preserve stamps, safeguarding them for future study. Philatelic research contributes to broader historical understanding by providing tangible evidence of past events, technologies, and cultural trends. The study of stamps like the six-cent Roosevelt issue enriches historical narratives and offers unique perspectives on the past.
Viewing the 1938 six-cent Roosevelt stamp as a historical artifact provides a richer appreciation of its significance. It transcends its functional purpose as postage and becomes a tangible representation of a specific moment in American history. This perspective encourages deeper exploration of the stamp’s context, production, and impact, revealing its enduring value as a primary source for understanding the past. Further research into archival materials, postal records, and biographical information related to Roosevelt’s presidency can further illuminate the stamp’s historical significance and enrich our understanding of its enduring legacy.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the 1938 six-cent Franklin Delano Roosevelt postage stamp, providing concise and informative responses.
Question 1: What distinguishes the 1938 six-cent Roosevelt stamp from other stamps featuring the president?
Its denomination, issuance date, and placement within the Presidential Series distinguish this particular stamp. These factors combine to create a specific collectible item with unique historical context.
Question 2: Why is the six-cent denomination significant?
The six-cent denomination reflects postal rates of 1938 and likely designated the stamp for specific mail classes, such as heavier items or international correspondence. This detail offers insight into historical postal practices.
Question 3: What contributes to the stamp’s value for collectors?
Condition, rarity, and demand determine the stamp’s value. Factors such as centering, perforations, gum condition, and the presence of any variations influence its desirability and price.
Question 4: Are there different variations of the six-cent Roosevelt stamp?
Variations exist in shade and perforation, creating distinct versions sought after by collectors. Specialized catalogs document these variations, aiding identification and valuation.
Question 5: How should one store and preserve these stamps?
Archival-quality albums and mounts are recommended to protect stamps from humidity, light, and pests, ensuring long-term preservation.
Question 6: Where can one find more information about this specific stamp?
Reputable philatelic resources, including catalogs, societies, and expert dealers, provide in-depth information regarding the stamp’s history, variations, and market value.
Careful consideration of these frequently asked questions provides a foundation for understanding the 1938 six-cent Roosevelt stamps significance within philatelic history. Further research using reputable resources enhances this understanding and contributes to informed collecting practices.
This FAQ section serves as a starting point for further exploration. Consulting specialized resources and engaging with the philatelic community provides a deeper understanding and appreciation of this historically significant stamp.
FDR 6-Cent Stamp
This exploration has provided a comprehensive overview of the 1938 six-cent Franklin Delano Roosevelt postage stamp. Key aspects discussed include its historical context within Roosevelt’s second term, its place within the Presidential Series, the significance of its denomination, analysis of the presidential portrait, and its status as both a collectible item and a historical artifact. Variations in shade and perforation, impacting collectibility and value, were also examined. The stamp’s significance extends beyond its purely postal function, serving as a tangible representation of a specific moment in American history.
The 1938 six-cent Roosevelt stamp offers a tangible connection to a pivotal period in American history. Further research and exploration within philatelic resources can yield additional insights into this unassuming yet historically significant artifact. Its continued presence in collections ensures its preservation for future generations, allowing continued study and appreciation of its multifaceted significance within American history and culture.
