A United States postage stamp issued in 1979 featured the first president on a twenty-cent denomination. Part of the Americana Series, it showcased a portrait of Washington based on a painting by Gilbert Stuart. This denomination fell between the more common fifteen and twenty-five cent stamps of the era, serving a specific postal rate need.
The 1979 issue reflects a specific period in American philately and postal history. Twenty-cent postage became necessary due to fluctuating postal rates, and this stamp fulfilled that requirement. Its existence offers a glimpse into the economic conditions and postal practices of the late 1970s. The stamps design, featuring a classic portrayal of the nation’s first president, reinforces Washington’s enduring image and historical significance.
Further exploration could delve into the specific printing methods, the lifespan of this denomination within the postal system, and the stamp’s value to collectors today. The Americana series itself offers a rich area of study, showcasing various aspects of American history and culture. Additionally, examining the evolution of postal rates and the role of different denominations can provide a deeper understanding of this particular stamp’s context.
Tips for Collectors of the 1979 Twenty-Cent Washington Stamp
Collectors seeking the 1979 twenty-cent Washington stamp can benefit from understanding key aspects of its history and variations. The following tips offer guidance for acquiring and appreciating this piece of American philately.
Tip 1: Condition is Key: Stamp condition significantly impacts value. Look for examples with vibrant colors, sharp perforations, and no noticeable flaws such as tears, creases, or thin spots.
Tip 2: Identify the Printing Variety: The stamp exists in several printing variations, including differences in gum type and paper. Identifying the specific variety can influence its collectibility.
Tip 3: Research Current Market Value: Consult reputable stamp catalogs and online resources to understand the stamp’s current market value. Prices can fluctuate based on condition and demand.
Tip 4: Consider Plate Blocks and First Day Covers: Plate blocks (multiple stamps still attached to the original selvedge) and first day covers (envelopes franked with the stamp on its first day of issue) often command higher prices and are desirable additions to a collection.
Tip 5: Authenticate Before Investing Heavily: For significant investments, authentication by a recognized philatelic expert is recommended to ensure the stamp’s genuineness and accurately assess its value.
Tip 6: Proper Storage is Crucial: Protect stamps from light, humidity, and temperature fluctuations by storing them in acid-free albums or mounts within a protective environment.
By following these guidelines, collectors can enhance their understanding and enjoyment of the 1979 twenty-cent Washington stamp. Acquiring this stamp offers a tangible connection to American history and postal practices.
Further research into the Americana series and the broader context of United States postal history can deepen appreciation for this specific stamp and its place within philately.
1. Americana Series
The Americana Series provides crucial context for understanding the 1979 twenty-cent George Washington stamp. This series, issued by the United States Postal Service, offers a lens through which to interpret the stamp’s design, purpose, and significance within American philately and history.
- Thematic Unity
The Americana Series sought to represent diverse aspects of American history and culture. Stamps within this series featured prominent figures, historical events, and significant cultural symbols. The inclusion of George Washington, the nation’s first president, within this series underscores his central role in American history. His image on a postage stamp reinforces his enduring legacy and symbolic importance.
- Design and Aesthetics
The Americana Series often employed classic and recognizable imagery. The twenty-cent Washington stamp exemplifies this approach by utilizing a familiar Gilbert Stuart portrait. This design choice contributed to the stamp’s aesthetic appeal and broad public recognition. The engraved style typical of the series contributed to the stamp’s classic appearance.
- Postal Function
While serving as collectible items, stamps within the Americana Series primarily fulfilled a practical postal function. The twenty-cent Washington stamp addressed a specific postal rate requirement of its time. Examining its usage reveals insights into the postal system and economic conditions of the late 1970s. The stamp’s denomination reflects the cost of mailing specific types of mail during that period.
- Historical Context
The Americana Series stamps, issued over several years, offer a snapshot of American culture and historical awareness at specific moments in time. The 1979 issuance of the twenty-cent Washington stamp coincided with ongoing national discussions surrounding history, patriotism, and national identity. The stamp’s release within this broader context contributes to its historical significance.
By analyzing the twenty-cent Washington stamp within the context of the Americana Series, one gains a deeper understanding of its multifaceted significance. This stamp represents not only a postal artifact but also a reflection of American history, artistic trends, and cultural values. Further exploration of other stamps within the Americana Series can enrich this understanding and illuminate broader themes in American history and philately.
2. 1979 Issuance
The year 1979 holds specific relevance for the twenty-cent George Washington stamp, marking its entry into circulation and connecting it to the economic and postal landscape of the time. Understanding this context is crucial for collectors and those interested in postal history. The following facets explore the significance of the 1979 issuance.
- Postal Rate Context
1979 marked a period of fluctuating postal rates in the United States. The introduction of a twenty-cent denomination addressed a specific price point for certain mail classes. Examining postal rate charts from 1979 reveals the rationale for this denomination and how it fit within the broader rate structure. This context highlights the stamp’s practical function beyond its collectible value.
- Economic Climate
The late 1970s presented unique economic challenges, including inflation. The twenty-cent stamp’s issuance reflects this economic reality, where rising costs necessitated adjustments in postal pricing. Analyzing the economic conditions of 1979 offers further insights into the stamp’s emergence.
- Printing and Production
Examining the printing and production methods employed in 1979 provides technical insights into the stamp’s creation. Understanding the printing technology used reveals specific characteristics of the stamp, including variations and potential flaws relevant to collectors. Details regarding the Bureau of Engraving and Printing’s processes in 1979 contribute to this understanding.
- Philatelic Trends
Placing the stamp within the philatelic landscape of 1979 reveals contemporary collecting trends and the stamp’s initial reception within the philatelic community. Analyzing publications and collector activity from that period provides insights into the stamp’s perceived value and desirability at the time of its release. This context contributes to a more nuanced understanding of the stamp’s historical significance.
Considering these interconnected facets enhances comprehension of the twenty-cent George Washington stamp as more than a mere postal artifact. Its 1979 issuance ties it directly to specific historical, economic, and philatelic circumstances, providing a deeper appreciation for its place within American postal history. Further research into these areas enriches understanding and strengthens the connection between this stamp and its historical moment.
3. Twenty-Cent Denomination
The twenty-cent denomination represents a crucial element in understanding the 1979 George Washington stamp. This specific face value reflects the postal rate structure of the time, directly influencing the stamp’s creation and purpose. Fluctuations in postal rates during the late 1970s necessitated the introduction of a twenty-cent stamp to meet specific mailing costs. Without this precise denomination, the stamp would not have existed in its specific form. Postal rate charts from 1979 demonstrate the need for this denomination, illustrating its practical application for various mail classes and weights. For instance, a large envelope exceeding a specific weight and size required precisely twenty cents postage. This specificity highlights the direct link between the stamp’s denomination and its function within the postal system.
The twenty-cent denomination also played a role in the stamp’s perceived value and collectibility. Its relative scarcity compared to more common denominations like fifteen or twenty-five cents potentially contributes to its appeal among collectors. This scarcity stems directly from the specific postal rates and the period during which the twenty-cent denomination was required. Analyzing sales data from stamp auctions reveals how this denomination influences market value. Furthermore, the twenty-cent denomination places the stamp within a specific historical context. It serves as a tangible reminder of the economic conditions and postal practices of the late 1970s. This link between denomination and historical context enhances the stamp’s value beyond its purely philatelic aspects.
Understanding the direct link between the twenty-cent denomination and the 1979 George Washington stamp offers essential context for collectors and postal history enthusiasts. The denomination is not merely a numerical value but a key element that connects the stamp to its historical, economic, and functional context. This understanding underscores the importance of considering postal rate history when evaluating stamps and their significance within broader historical narratives. Further research into postal rate fluctuations and their impact on stamp denominations can provide deeper insight into the dynamics of philately and its relationship with economic and social factors.
4. Gilbert Stuart Portrait
The 1979 twenty-cent George Washington stamp features a reproduction of a Gilbert Stuart portrait, specifically the “Athenaeum Portrait.” This choice directly links the stamp to a widely recognized image of Washington, solidifying its connection to American history and iconography. Stuart’s portrayal, characterized by its idealized depiction of Washington, became a canonical representation, reproduced countless times in various media. Its selection for the stamp design reinforces this iconic status, leveraging its familiarity within the public consciousness. The stamp, therefore, acts not only as a postal artifact but also as a miniature reproduction of a significant artwork, disseminating Stuart’s image further and cementing its place in American visual culture. One could argue the stamp’s success partially relied on the pre-existing recognition of Stuart’s portrayal. Had a less familiar image been chosen, the stamp’s impact and memorability might have been diminished.
The specific choice of the “Athenaeum Portrait” holds further significance. This particular painting, with its unfinished state and subtle nuances, offers a distinct interpretation of Washington. Its reproduction on the stamp, however, requires adaptation to the medium’s constraints. Engraving processes and size limitations necessitate simplification and stylistic adjustments. Comparing the stamp’s image to the original painting reveals these alterations, offering insights into the challenges of translating artistic works across different media. This process of adaptation highlights the technical and artistic decisions involved in stamp design, showcasing how the original artwork is reinterpreted for a specific purpose. For instance, the subtle shading and depth of the original portrait are necessarily simplified in the stamp’s engraved version, emphasizing line and contrast over fine detail. This adaptation impacts how viewers perceive Washington’s image on the stamp, potentially emphasizing certain features over others.
Understanding the connection between the Gilbert Stuart portrait and the twenty-cent Washington stamp provides crucial context for appreciating the stamp’s design and cultural impact. The choice of this particular portrait is not arbitrary but a deliberate decision that draws upon existing visual conventions and leverages the power of familiar imagery. Recognizing the adaptations required for reproduction on a stamp highlights the technical and artistic processes inherent in stamp production. This understanding allows for a more nuanced interpretation of the stamp, moving beyond its purely postal function and recognizing its role in disseminating and reinterpreting iconic American artwork. Further examination of Stuart’s other portraits of Washington and their influence on American visual culture can enhance this appreciation, revealing the broader historical and artistic context surrounding the stamp’s design.
5. Postal Rate Fulfillment
The 1979 twenty-cent George Washington stamp exemplifies the direct relationship between stamp issuance and postal rate requirements. This stamp emerged not as a purely commemorative or artistic endeavor, but out of a specific need to fulfill a then-current postal rate. Fluctuations in postal costs during the late 1970s created a demand for a twenty-cent denomination to cover the expense of particular mail classes and weights. Without this specific rate requirement, the stamp, in its twenty-cent form, would likely not exist. This cause-and-effect relationship underscores the practical, functional nature of postage stamps within a larger postal system. One can imagine scenarios where certain mail pieces, perhaps exceeding weight or size limitations of lower-cost categories, required precisely twenty cents postage. The existence of this stamp directly facilitated such transactions, ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of the mail service.
Examining historical postal rate charts from 1979 provides concrete evidence of this connection. These charts detail the costs associated with various mail services, demonstrating where the twenty-cent denomination fit within the overall pricing structure. They may reveal, for example, that the first-class postage for a large envelope weighing between a specific range required twenty cents. This specificity illustrates the stamp’s practical application and its integral role in meeting postal rate obligations. Furthermore, understanding this connection allows for a deeper appreciation of the stamp’s historical significance. The stamp becomes a tangible artifact representing not only a historical figure but also the economic and logistical realities of the postal service in 1979. This insight adds another layer of meaning to the stamp, moving beyond its purely visual or commemorative aspects.
The relationship between the twenty-cent George Washington stamp and postal rate fulfillment highlights the practical considerations driving stamp production. While aesthetic and commemorative aspects undoubtedly play a role, stamps fundamentally serve a functional purpose within a complex system of postal rates and regulations. Recognizing this connection provides crucial context for understanding the historical and economic factors shaping stamp design and issuance. Further exploration of postal rate history and its influence on stamp denominations can illuminate broader trends within philately and its intersection with economic and social history. This understanding offers valuable insight for collectors, historians, and anyone seeking a deeper appreciation of the multifaceted nature of postage stamps.
6. Collectible Item
The 1979 twenty-cent George Washington stamp functions as a collectible item, transcending its original postal purpose. Several factors contribute to its collectibility. Its relatively limited production period, tied to the specific postal rate it fulfilled, contributes to its scarcity. Unlike stamps with indefinite usage periods, the twenty-cent Washington stamp served a specific function within a defined timeframe, resulting in a finite number of issued stamps. This scarcity inherently increases its desirability among collectors. Additionally, its association with George Washington, a central figure in American history, enhances its appeal. Thematic collectors focusing on presidential memorabilia or Americana often seek this stamp, driving demand within specific collecting niches. Real-life examples include its presence in stamp auctions, online marketplaces, and specialized stamp catalogs, where its value is often determined by condition, printing variations, and accompanying materials like first-day covers.
The stamp’s status as a collectible item goes beyond mere scarcity and historical association. It represents a tangible piece of American postal and cultural history. The stamp’s design, incorporating the iconic Gilbert Stuart portrait, further solidifies its collectible value. Collectors appreciate not only the stamp’s historical context but also its aesthetic qualities, recognizing the artistic merit of its engraved design. Moreover, specialized collecting areas, such as plate blocks or varieties related to printing errors, add further layers to its collectibility. A plate block of the twenty-cent Washington stamp, for example, would command a higher value than a single stamp due to its rarity and completeness. Similarly, a stamp with a notable printing error, like an inverted image or color shift, becomes a highly sought-after collectible due to its unique characteristics.
Understanding the 1979 twenty-cent George Washington stamp as a collectible item provides insights into the broader field of philately and its intersection with history, art, and economics. Recognizing the factors contributing to its collectibility, such as scarcity, historical significance, and design elements, enhances appreciation for its value beyond its original postal function. Furthermore, recognizing the stamp’s presence within various collecting communities, from general stamp collectors to those specializing in presidential memorabilia, provides a tangible connection between a historical artifact and contemporary collecting practices. This understanding allows for a more nuanced perspective on the stamp’s enduring legacy, transcending its utilitarian origins and solidifying its place as a sought-after piece of American history and culture.
7. Historical Artifact
The 1979 twenty-cent George Washington stamp serves as a historical artifact, offering insights into various aspects of the late 1970s. Its existence reflects the economic conditions of the time, specifically the fluctuating postal rates that necessitated a twenty-cent denomination. This direct link between economic realities and postal practices positions the stamp as a primary source for understanding this period. Examining postal records and rate charts from 1979 demonstrates this connection, revealing how inflation and shifting postal costs influenced stamp denominations. The stamp’s design, featuring a classic Gilbert Stuart portrait, reflects prevalent artistic and cultural trends. The continued reliance on this iconic portrayal underscores Washington’s enduring presence in American visual culture. The stamp’s physical characteristics, such as the printing method and paper type, offer further historical insights into printing technologies and material usage of the era. Preserved examples of the stamp, whether in private collections or museum archives, serve as tangible evidence of these historical processes.
The stamp’s function as a historical artifact extends beyond its production. Its usage within the postal system reveals patterns of communication and commerce during the late 1970s. The volume of mail bearing the twenty-cent denomination, discernible through postal records, reflects the scale of specific types of mail transactions. This data provides a quantifiable measure of economic activity and communication practices, offering insights into societal trends. Furthermore, the stamp’s eventual discontinuation, tied to subsequent shifts in postal rates, marks a distinct historical endpoint. This cessation signifies a change in economic and logistical factors influencing the postal system, illustrating how historical artifacts can demarcate specific periods. Collectors and historians can analyze these changes to understand broader trends in communication and economics. The stamp’s presence in philatelic collections and museum displays today further reinforces its status as a historical artifact, transforming a once utilitarian object into a preserved piece of the past, available for study and interpretation.
The 1979 twenty-cent George Washington stamp exemplifies how seemingly mundane objects can hold significant historical value. By analyzing its production, usage, and eventual obsolescence, one gains valuable insights into the economic, cultural, and technological landscape of the late 1970s. This understanding underscores the importance of preserving such artifacts, recognizing their potential to illuminate historical narratives. Further investigation into postal history, printing technologies, and economic trends of the period enhances this understanding, connecting the stamp to broader historical contexts and reinforcing its value as a primary source for historical research. The challenges in preserving these artifacts, including factors like paper degradation and storage conditions, emphasize the importance of archival practices and the ongoing efforts required to maintain these tangible links to the past.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the 1979 twenty-cent George Washington stamp, providing concise and informative responses.
Question 1: What distinguishes the 1979 twenty-cent George Washington stamp from other stamps featuring Washington?
The 1979 stamp’s unique combination of denomination, issuance date, and inclusion within the Americana Series distinguishes it. While other Washington stamps exist, this particular issue occupies a specific place within philatelic history due to these factors.
Question 2: Why was a twenty-cent stamp necessary in 1979?
Fluctuating postal rates in 1979 created a need for a twenty-cent denomination to meet specific mailing costs. This stamp fulfilled a practical function within the postal system, directly addressing a specific rate requirement.
Question 3: What is the significance of the Gilbert Stuart portrait used on the stamp?
The use of the Gilbert Stuart portrait, specifically the “Athenaeum Portrait,” connects the stamp to a widely recognized and iconic image of Washington. This choice leverages a familiar representation, reinforcing Washington’s historical significance.
Question 4: What contributes to the stamp’s value as a collectible item?
Factors contributing to the stamp’s collectibility include its limited production period, association with George Washington, and its place within the Americana Series. Condition, printing variations, and accompanying materials further influence its value.
Question 5: How can one determine the current market value of this stamp?
Consulting reputable stamp catalogs, online marketplaces, and seeking appraisals from philatelic experts provides insights into current market values. Prices fluctuate based on factors like condition and demand.
Question 6: Where can one acquire this stamp for a collection?
Potential sources for acquiring the stamp include stamp dealers, online marketplaces specializing in philatelic materials, and occasionally estate sales or auctions.
Understanding these key aspects of the 1979 twenty-cent George Washington stamp provides a foundation for further exploration. This knowledge enhances appreciation for the stamp’s historical context, design elements, and collectibility.
Further research into postal history, philatelic practices, and the Americana Series can deepen understanding and enrich the collecting experience.
The 1979 Twenty-Cent George Washington Stamp
The 1979 twenty-cent George Washington stamp represents more than a simple postage artifact. Its issuance reflects specific economic conditions, postal rate necessities, and prevailing artistic trends. The stamp’s denomination, tied to fluctuating postal costs, underscores its practical function within the communication systems of the late 1970s. Furthermore, the chosen Gilbert Stuart portrait connects the stamp to a broader visual history, leveraging a familiar and iconic image of the nation’s first president. The stamp’s inclusion in the Americana Series reinforces its connection to national heritage and cultural identity. Its current status as a collectible item adds another layer of significance, demonstrating its enduring appeal among philatelists and its continued relevance within a specific collecting community. Each facet, from its production to its present-day value, contributes to a comprehensive understanding of this seemingly small artifact.
The examination of this stamp reveals the rich intersection of history, art, economics, and communication practices encapsulated within a single object. Further research into these interconnected areas offers opportunities for deeper exploration, enriching historical understanding and broadening perspectives on seemingly mundane artifacts. The stamp’s continued presence in collections and archives ensures its accessibility for future study, allowing subsequent generations to glean insights into this particular moment in American history. Its enduring legacy serves as a testament to the power of small objects to encapsulate larger historical narratives.
