The earliest United States postage stamp depicting the nation’s first president was a one-cent denomination issued in 1847. This initial design, based on a bust by sculptor Horatio Greenough, marked the beginning of a long tradition of featuring Washington on American postage. Subsequent issues throughout the 19th and 20th centuries showcased varied portraits, engravings, and colors, reflecting evolving printing techniques and artistic styles. These stamps served as a crucial element of the growing postal system, facilitating communication and commerce across the expanding nation.
These small pieces of postal history offer valuable insights into American graphic design, printing methods, and cultural perceptions of George Washington. Their widespread use and enduring popularity cemented their place not only as functional postage but also as collectible artifacts. Studying these stamps can illuminate the evolution of postal rates, design trends, and even political and social contexts of their respective eras. Moreover, they provide a tangible connection to the past, offering a glimpse into the everyday lives of people who used them for correspondence and business transactions.
This exploration will delve further into specific examples, examining notable design variations, key production details, and the historical significance of these important philatelic items. The subsequent sections will cover topics including the various series, prominent engravers and designers, and the enduring legacy of these miniature portraits of America’s founding father.
Tips for Collecting Early U.S. Postage
Building a meaningful collection of early United States postage requires careful consideration and informed decisions. The following tips offer guidance for both novice and seasoned collectors.
Tip 1: Focus on a Specific Area: Rather than attempting to acquire every stamp ever issued, concentrating on a specific era, design type, or denomination (such as the 19th-century Washington issues) can provide a more manageable and rewarding collecting experience.
Tip 2: Condition is Key: Stamp condition significantly impacts value. Look for stamps with minimal damage, such as tears, creases, or thin spots. Centering within the margins is also crucial.
Tip 3: Utilize Reputable Resources: Consult stamp catalogs, expert publications, and established dealers for accurate information on identification, valuation, and market trends. Joining a philatelic society can also provide valuable resources and networking opportunities.
Tip 4: Proper Storage is Essential: Protect stamps from humidity, light, and pests by storing them in archival-quality albums or sleeves. Avoid handling stamps directly with fingers; use stamp tongs to minimize potential damage.
Tip 5: Authentication Matters: For high-value stamps, consider obtaining certificates of authenticity from recognized philatelic expertizing services. This helps ensure the stamp’s genuineness and can enhance its value.
Tip 6: Patience is a Virtue: Building a significant collection takes time and dedication. Don’t rush the process. Carefully research each potential acquisition and be prepared to wait for the right opportunities.
By following these guidelines, collectors can cultivate collections that offer both historical insights and potential long-term value. These practices contribute to the preservation of important philatelic artifacts and foster a deeper appreciation for the rich history of postal communication.
These tips offer a starting point for navigating the world of stamp collecting. The concluding section will summarize the key takeaways and offer further resources for continued learning.
1. First US postage stamp
The designation “First US postage stamp” is inextricably linked to the 1847 one-cent stamp bearing the image of George Washington. This stamp represents the genesis of the United States postage system. Prior to its issuance, postal fees were often paid by the recipient and varied based on distance. The introduction of pre-paid postage, facilitated by the 1847 stamp, simplified the process, reduced costs, and contributed significantly to the growth of written communication and commerce. The decision to feature George Washington, the nation’s first president, underscored his symbolic importance and established a precedent for depicting prominent figures on subsequent American stamps. This initial stamp’s design, based on a bust by Horatio Greenough, became an iconic representation of early American postage.
The 1847 stamps significance extends beyond its practical function. Its existence as the first US postage stamp automatically imbues it with historical value for collectors and historians alike. The stamp offers a tangible link to a pivotal moment in American communication history. Surviving examples, particularly those in good condition, are highly sought after by philatelists. Furthermore, the stamp’s design and production details provide insights into printing techniques and artistic styles of the period. The choice of Washington as the subject matter also reflects the cultural values and historical narratives prevalent in mid-19th century America.
Understanding the connection between the “First US postage stamp” and the “1847 one-cent George Washington stamp” provides a foundation for appreciating the evolution of the American postal system and the broader context of 19th-century graphic arts and communication. The stamp serves as a starting point for exploring broader themes of national identity, technological advancement, and the cultural significance of postage stamps. Its study offers valuable insights into the historical forces that shaped communication networks and the enduring legacy of a seemingly small, yet profoundly impactful, piece of printed ephemera.
2. Issued 1847
The year 1847 marks a pivotal moment in American postal history: the issuance of the nation’s first postage stamps. These stamps, featuring a portrait of George Washington based on a bust by Horatio Greenough, were denominated at one cent. Understanding the context of this 1847 issuance is crucial for appreciating the stamp’s significance.
- Pre-Paid Postage:
Before 1847, postal rates were typically paid by the recipient upon delivery and varied according to distance. The 1847 stamps introduced the concept of pre-paid postage in the United States, simplifying the process and encouraging increased mail volume. This shift represented a significant step towards a more efficient and accessible postal system.
- Growth of Communication:
The introduction of affordable, pre-paid postage facilitated greater communication across the expanding nation. The one-cent denomination made mailing letters accessible to a wider population, contributing to both personal and commercial correspondence growth. This ease of communication fostered stronger social and economic ties across distances.
- Printing Technology:
The 1847 stamps reflect the printing capabilities of the era. Produced using intaglio printing, these stamps showcased the detailed engraving work possible at the time. Examination of the stamp’s printing reveals insights into the technical advancements and limitations of mid-19th century printing processes.
- National Iconography:
The choice of George Washington as the subject of the first postage stamp cemented his status as a national icon. This decision established a tradition of featuring prominent figures on American postage, reflecting the nation’s values and historical narratives. The Greenough bust, chosen for the portrayal, contributed to the visual representation of Washington in the public consciousness.
The 1847 issuance of the one-cent George Washington stamp represents more than just the introduction of a new postal method. It symbolizes a turning point in American communication, reflecting technological advancements, economic development, and the construction of national identity. The stamp’s historical context enriches its significance for collectors and historians alike, providing insights into a transformative period in US history.
3. One-cent denomination
The one-cent denomination of the first United States postage stamp, featuring George Washington and issued in 1847, played a crucial role in its widespread adoption and impact. This affordability directly influenced the stamp’s accessibility and contributed to the growth of written communication throughout the nation. Examining the implications of this specific denomination provides insights into the stamp’s historical context and enduring significance.
- Affordability and Accessibility:
The one-cent price point made sending letters affordable for a larger segment of the population than previously possible. This accessibility democratized postal services, enabling wider participation in written correspondence and facilitating both personal and commercial communication across distances. The low cost removed a significant barrier to communication, promoting literacy and information exchange.
- Increased Mail Volume:
The combination of pre-paid postage and the low one-cent denomination stimulated a significant increase in mail volume. This surge in postal activity necessitated improvements and expansions within the postal system itself, further contributing to communication infrastructure development and interconnectedness across the growing nation. The increased volume also generated revenue for the postal service, supporting its continued operation and expansion.
- Commercial Impact:
The one-cent stamp facilitated the growth of businesses by enabling cost-effective advertising and direct marketing through the mail. Catalogs, brochures, and other promotional materials could be distributed more widely and efficiently, contributing to economic growth and the expansion of markets. The stamp became an essential tool for businesses seeking to reach customers across geographical boundaries.
- Philatelic Significance:
The 1847 one-cent stamp, due to its widespread use, exists in relatively large numbers compared to later, higher denomination issues. This availability, combined with its historical importance as the first US postage stamp, makes it an accessible and foundational piece for collectors. Its affordability allows new collectors to acquire a historically significant piece without a substantial financial investment, encouraging participation in philately.
The one-cent denomination of the 1847 George Washington stamp was instrumental in transforming the American postal landscape. Its impact extended beyond mere affordability, influencing communication practices, driving economic growth, and shaping the collecting habits of future generations. The choice of this specific denomination underscores its crucial role in the stamp’s historical narrative and lasting legacy.
4. Horatio Greenough design
The 1847 one-cent stamp featuring George Washington is inextricably linked to the design choices of sculptor Horatio Greenough. Greenough’s 1840 bust of Washington, commissioned for the rotunda of the U.S. Capitol Building, served as the direct source image for the stamp’s engraving. This connection between Greenough’s neoclassical sculptural style and the first U.S. postage stamp had significant implications for the visual representation of Washington and established a precedent for future stamp designs.
Greenough’s interpretation of Washington, inspired by classical statuary, presented the first president in a heroic, idealized manner. This artistic approach, evident in the stamp’s depiction of Washington’s bare chest and stylized features, reflected the prevailing artistic conventions of the time. However, the adaptation of a three-dimensional sculpture to a small, two-dimensional format presented certain challenges. The intricacies of Greenough’s bust were simplified for the stamp engraving, leading to a somewhat flattened and less nuanced representation. Despite these limitations, the stamp effectively conveyed a sense of gravitas and established a recognizable image of Washington for a national audience. The choice of Greenough’s design, while initially met with mixed public reaction due to its unconventional portrayal, ultimately played a pivotal role in shaping the visual iconography of Washington on subsequent postage and currency.
Understanding the connection between Greenough’s artistic style and the 1847 stamp provides valuable insights into the cultural and artistic climate of mid-19th century America. The stamp design reflects the nation’s embrace of neoclassicism and its desire to portray its founding fathers in a grand, heroic manner. While later stamp designs moved away from this specific portrayal, the influence of Greenough’s work can be observed in the continued emphasis on Washington’s dignified presence and symbolic importance. This understanding highlights the intersection of art, politics, and communication in the early years of the United States and underscores the lasting impact of design choices on the visual language of national identity.
5. Depicts George Washington
The phrase “Depicts George Washington” is central to understanding the significance of the 1847 one-cent stamp. The decision to feature the nation’s first president on the inaugural postage stamp established a powerful visual precedent, linking Washington’s image with national identity and the burgeoning postal system. This deliberate choice had lasting implications for the iconography of American postage and currency, shaping public perception and reinforcing Washington’s symbolic importance.
- National Iconography:
Representing Washington on the first postage stamp cemented his status as a national icon. This choice transcended mere portraiture; it established a visual shorthand for American identity, associating Washington’s image with the very fabric of the nation’s communication infrastructure. The stamp disseminated this image widely, reinforcing its symbolic power and solidifying Washington’s place in the national consciousness. This association with national identity continues to resonate today.
- Precedent for Future Designs:
The 1847 stamp established a tradition of portraying prominent figures on American postage. This precedent influenced subsequent stamp designs, featuring other presidents, historical figures, and national symbols. Washington’s presence on the inaugural stamp set the stage for a visual narrative of American history and values, communicated through the medium of postage. This tradition continues to shape the design of American stamps today.
- Horatio Greenough’s Influence:
The specific depiction of Washington on the 1847 stamp derives from Horatio Greenough’s 1840 bust. This neoclassical interpretation, with its idealized and heroic portrayal, influenced public perception of Washington. While later stamp designs adopted different artistic styles, Greenough’s initial representation established a baseline for the visual language used to portray Washington, particularly in official contexts.
- Widespread Dissemination of Image:
The widespread use of the one-cent stamp ensured that Greenough’s image of Washington reached a vast audience. Through the everyday act of mailing letters, this specific representation of the first president became deeply ingrained in the public’s visual vocabulary. This saturation contributed significantly to the enduring power and recognition of Washington’s image in American culture.
The decision to depict George Washington on the 1847 one-cent stamp had profound and lasting consequences for American visual culture. It established a powerful connection between Washington’s image, national identity, and the postal system. This deliberate design choice influenced subsequent stamp designs, shaped public perception of Washington, and cemented his place as a central figure in American iconography. The stamp, therefore, serves not only as a historical artifact but also as a testament to the power of visual representation in shaping national narratives and cultural memory.
6. Numerous printings
The 1847 one-cent stamp featuring George Washington, the first United States postage stamp, underwent numerous printings to meet the burgeoning demands of a rapidly expanding postal system. This high volume of production resulted in a range of variations across different print runs, creating a complex and fascinating area of study for philatelists. Understanding the implications of these numerous printings is crucial for accurately identifying, valuing, and appreciating these historical artifacts.
Several factors contributed to the need for repeated printings. The introduction of pre-paid postage, coupled with the stamp’s low denomination, fueled a dramatic increase in mail volume. The initial print run proved insufficient to meet this surging demand, necessitating subsequent production runs. Variations in paper type, ink color, perforation methods, and even subtle differences in the engraved image emerged across these printings. These distinctions, often minute, provide crucial clues for collectors seeking to differentiate between various issues and assess their relative rarity. For example, stamps printed on laid paper are generally considered earlier issues than those printed on wove paper. Similarly, variations in shade and intensity of the black ink used can help pinpoint specific print runs. These seemingly minor details can significantly impact a stamp’s value and collectibility.
The numerous printings of the 1847 stamp offer a tangible record of the growth and development of the early American postal system. They reflect the technological advancements and challenges of 19th-century printing processes. Furthermore, studying these variations provides valuable insights into the historical context of communication practices and the evolution of graphic design in the United States. The complexity arising from these numerous printings adds a layer of intrigue for collectors, transforming the pursuit of these stamps into a detailed and rewarding exploration of postal and printing history. Recognizing and understanding these variations is essential for building a meaningful and historically informed collection of early American postage.
7. Valuable collectible
The designation “valuable collectible” is frequently applied to the 1847 one-cent stamp featuring George Washington, reflecting its significant historical importance and enduring appeal within the world of philately. Several factors contribute to this stamp’s desirability among collectors, including its status as the first United States postage stamp, its association with a pivotal moment in American history, and the inherent rarity of certain variations resulting from its numerous printings. These attributes, combined with condition and provenance, influence the stamp’s market value and contribute to its prominent position within stamp collecting.
The stamp’s status as the first general-issue U.S. postage stamp establishes its foundational importance within American philately. This historical significance drives collector interest, creating inherent demand. Further enhancing its value are factors such as condition, with well-preserved examples commanding higher prices. Rarity also plays a crucial role. While the 1847 stamp was printed in large quantities, certain variations, distinguished by subtle differences in paper, ink, and perforation, are considerably scarcer. These variations, often identifiable only through careful examination and specialized knowledge, are highly sought after by collectors. For instance, an 1847 stamp with the “Z” grill, a distinctive waffle-like pattern embossed on the back, can fetch a premium price due to its relative scarcity. Documented provenance, tracing the stamp’s ownership history, can further contribute to its value. A stamp once owned by a prominent historical figure or part of a renowned collection often commands a higher price due to its unique historical association.
Understanding the interplay between historical significance, condition, rarity, and provenance is crucial for assessing the value of an 1847 one-cent George Washington stamp. This knowledge allows collectors to make informed decisions regarding acquisition and management of their collections. The stamp’s enduring status as a “valuable collectible” reflects its intrinsic historical value and its continuing appeal to those fascinated by the tangible remnants of America’s postal and printing heritage. Its study offers valuable insights into the evolution of communication, graphic design, and the cultural significance of collecting. The ongoing interest in this stamp ensures its continued prominence within the world of philately and reinforces its position as a touchstone of American history.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the 1847 one-cent stamp featuring George Washington.
Question 1: How can one distinguish between the various printings of the 1847 stamp?
Differentiation between printings often requires careful examination of minute details. Variations in paper type (laid versus wove), ink color and shade, perforation methods, and even subtle differences in the engraved image can help identify specific print runs. Consulting specialized stamp catalogs and expertizing services can provide further guidance.
Question 2: What factors determine the value of an 1847 stamp?
Several factors influence value, including condition, rarity, and provenance. Stamps in pristine condition with minimal damage command higher prices. Rarity, influenced by specific printing variations and production numbers, significantly impacts value. Documented ownership history, or provenance, can also increase a stamp’s worth.
Question 3: Where can one acquire authentic 1847 stamps?
Reputable stamp dealers, auction houses, and online marketplaces specializing in philatelic materials are recommended sources for acquiring authentic stamps. Exercising caution and verifying seller reputations is crucial to avoid counterfeit or misrepresented items.
Question 4: How should 1847 stamps be stored to ensure preservation?
Archival-quality stamp albums or acid-free sleeves provide optimal protection from humidity, light, and pests. Handling stamps with stamp tongs is recommended to minimize potential damage from fingerprints and oils.
Question 5: Why is the 1847 stamp considered historically significant?
Its designation as the first general-issue United States postage stamp marks a pivotal moment in American communication history. The introduction of pre-paid postage facilitated increased mail volume and contributed significantly to the growth of commerce and personal correspondence.
Question 6: What role did Horatio Greenough play in the design of the 1847 stamp?
His 1840 bust of George Washington, commissioned for the U.S. Capitol Building, served as the source image for the stamp’s engraving. Greenough’s neoclassical interpretation of Washington influenced the visual representation of the first president on the stamp and subsequent American iconography.
Careful consideration of these frequently asked questions facilitates a deeper understanding of the 1847 one-cent stamp’s historical context, variations, and collectible value. Further research through reputable philatelic resources can enhance this understanding and inform collecting practices.
This concludes the FAQ section. The following section will offer a glossary of philatelic terms relevant to the 1847 stamp.
Conclusion
The 1847 one-cent stamp featuring George Washington represents a landmark achievement in American postal history. Its issuance marked the beginning of pre-paid postage in the United States, facilitating widespread communication and fostering economic growth. From its design origins in Horatio Greenough’s neoclassical bust to the numerous printings necessitated by increasing demand, this unassuming piece of ephemera offers a wealth of historical insights. Its various printings and resulting variations provide a tangible record of 19th-century printing technology and the challenges of meeting the communication needs of an expanding nation. The stamp’s enduring popularity among collectors reflects its historical significance and its connection to a pivotal moment in American history.
The 1847 stamp serves as a potent reminder of the power of small things to effect significant change. Its introduction transformed communication practices, shaped visual culture, and continues to fascinate collectors and historians alike. Further exploration of this seemingly simple artifact reveals a complex interplay of art, technology, politics, and economics, offering valuable lessons about the evolution of communication networks and the enduring legacy of American ingenuity. The stamp’s continued presence in collections worldwide ensures its preservation as a tangible link to a transformative period in U.S. history and serves as an invitation to further explore the rich tapestry of American philately.
