The Rutherford B. Hayes presidential issue, denominated eleven cents, is a significant artifact of United States philately. Issued in 1877, it depicts the 19th president and is part of the definitive series that followed the pictorial issues of the 1860s and 1870s. This particular stamp exists in several varieties, distinguishable by factors such as paper type, grill, and perforation, each adding nuances to its value and collectibility.
This postage represents more than just a means of prepaying mail. It offers a tangible connection to a specific period in American history, the Reconstruction era. Its design, production methods, and usage reflect the evolving technology and postal practices of the time. Studying these seemingly small details provides valuable insights into the political, economic, and social landscape of the late 19th century. Furthermore, its scarcity and variations make it a desirable item for collectors, contributing to the rich history of philately.
This exploration will delve deeper into specific aspects of the stamp, such as its various printings, known errors and varieties, and its current market value. Further discussion will cover the historical context surrounding its issuance and the life and presidency of Rutherford B. Hayes himself, providing a comprehensive overview of this important piece of postal history.
Tips for Collectors of the 1877 Hayes Issue
Careful consideration of several factors is essential when evaluating and acquiring an eleven-cent stamp from the 1877 Hayes series. Condition, variety, and authenticity all play a crucial role in determining a stamp’s value and collectibility. The following tips offer guidance for both novice and experienced collectors.
Tip 1: Examine the Grill: Different grill patterns exist, and identifying the specific grill is crucial for accurate identification and valuation. Consult specialized catalogs for detailed diagrams and descriptions of these patterns.
Tip 2: Assess the Perforations: Gauge the perforations carefully. Variations exist, and these differences impact value. A perforation gauge is an essential tool for accurate measurement.
Tip 3: Analyze the Paper Type: The stamp was printed on different paper types. Distinguishing between these types requires careful examination, sometimes with the aid of specialized tools or expert advice.
Tip 4: Look for Watermarks: Some varieties exhibit watermarks. Detecting these hidden features requires careful examination under specific lighting conditions or with watermark fluid.
Tip 5: Evaluate Centering: The centering of the design within the perforations significantly impacts a stamp’s desirability and value. Well-centered examples are generally more sought after by collectors.
Tip 6: Verify Authenticity: Counterfeit stamps exist. Consulting with experienced philatelists or obtaining certificates of authenticity from reputable organizations is highly recommended, particularly for higher-value items.
Tip 7: Consider Condition: Factors such as tears, creases, thin spots, and fading can significantly detract from a stamp’s value. Careful handling and proper storage are essential for preserving condition.
By adhering to these guidelines, collectors can confidently navigate the complexities of the 1877 Hayes issue, ensuring informed decisions and building a valuable and historically significant collection.
These insights into collecting the eleven-cent Hayes issue provide a foundation for further exploration of this fascinating area of philately. The following section will conclude with resources for further research and opportunities for engaging with the wider collecting community.
1. Rutherford B. Hayes
Rutherford B. Hayes’s presidency (1877-1881) is inextricably linked to the eleven-cent stamp bearing his likeness. The stamp’s issuance in 1877, during his first year in office, reflects standard practice of featuring the current president on postage. This philatelic representation served as a visual reminder of presidential authority and national identity. The choice of Hayes’s image cemented his place within the historical narrative conveyed through postage, connecting him directly to the everyday communications of citizens. This visual association reinforced his presence throughout the country during his term.
The stamp’s existence provides a tangible link to Hayes’s era. Its design, typical of late 19th-century engraving techniques, reflects contemporary aesthetics. Studying the stamp offers insights into the printing technologies and postal systems of the time. Moreover, the stamp’s various printings and existing varieties provide opportunities for philatelic research, offering clues about production processes and distribution patterns during Hayes’s administration. The stamp, therefore, functions as a historical artifact reflecting broader aspects of the period beyond Hayes’s political activities.
Understanding the relationship between Hayes and the eleven-cent stamp underscores the importance of postage as a historical record. These small pieces of paper offer glimpses into political leadership, technological advancements, and cultural trends. The Hayes stamp serves as a prime example, providing a tangible connection to a specific presidential administration and the broader context of the late 19th century. Further research into postal history can enrich understanding of this era and the individuals who shaped it.
2. 1877 Issue
The “1877 Issue” represents a pivotal moment in United States philately, directly linked to the Rutherford B. Hayes eleven-cent stamp. This issue encompasses a series of definitive stamps released during that year, marking a shift in design and production. Understanding the broader context of the 1877 Issue illuminates the significance of the Hayes stamp within the larger narrative of American postal history.
- Definitive Series
The 1877 Issue belongs to a category of stamps known as “definitive series,” designed for ongoing, everyday postal use. Unlike commemorative issues intended for specific events or anniversaries, definitive stamps fulfill regular postage requirements. The Hayes stamp, as part of this series, served a practical function in facilitating mail delivery across the nation, reflecting the importance of reliable postal service during this era.
- Engraving and Printing
The 1877 Issue showcases the prevalent printing methods of the time, primarily steel engraving. This technique, known for its detail and security, contributes to the intricate design of the Hayes stamp. Variations in printing, such as different paper types and perforation gauges, distinguish specific print runs within the 1877 Issue, offering valuable insights for collectors and philatelic researchers.
- Postal Rates and Usage
The denominations within the 1877 Issue, including the eleven-cent Hayes stamp, reflect the postal rates in effect at the time. Analyzing these denominations helps understand the costs associated with different types of mail and the evolution of postal pricing. Examining postal markings and cancellations on surviving stamps from this issue can offer further insights into mail routes and delivery practices of the period.
- Philatelic Context
The 1877 Issue holds significant importance for stamp collectors. Its various stamps, including the Hayes eleven-cent, are sought after for their historical context, design variations, and relative scarcity. The issue represents a transition in American stamp design, bridging the gap between earlier pictorial issues and later definitive series. Understanding the 1877 Issue’s place within the larger timeline of US philately enhances appreciation for individual stamps like the Hayes eleven-cent.
Examining these facets of the 1877 Issue provides crucial context for appreciating the Hayes eleven-cent stamp. It demonstrates how this individual stamp fits within a larger series reflecting specific historical circumstances, technological capabilities, and evolving postal practices. Studying the broader issue deepens understanding of the stamps significance beyond its face value, enriching its historical and philatelic relevance.
3. Eleven Cents
The denomination “eleven cents” is integral to the identity and function of the Hayes 11-cent stamp. This specific value dictated the stamp’s usage within the postal system of 1877. Postal rates determined the cost of mailing items based on weight, destination, and service type. An eleven-cent stamp likely covered specific mail classes, potentially including heavier letters, small packages, or international correspondence. Understanding the prevailing postal rates of 1877 clarifies the practical role of this denomination within the context of mail delivery.
The choice of eleven cents as a denomination within the 1877 stamp issue likely resulted from careful consideration of postal needs and revenue targets. The postal service aimed to offer a range of denominations to accommodate diverse mailing requirements. The inclusion of an eleven-cent stamp suggests a demand for this specific value, likely driven by factors such as increased package delivery or evolving international mail agreements. Analyzing postal records and rate charts from 1877 can illuminate the specific types of mail this denomination facilitated. Such analysis reveals the practical impact of “eleven cents” on communication and commerce during that era. For instance, heavier catalogs or international business letters might have required this specific denomination, illustrating the stamp’s role in facilitating commercial activities and information dissemination.
Comprehending the significance of “eleven cents” within the context of the Hayes stamp provides essential insight into the historical and functional aspects of this philatelic item. This seemingly minor detail reveals important information about postal practices, economic conditions, and communication patterns of the late 19th century. Further research into contemporary postal regulations and rate tables can provide a deeper understanding of the practical significance of this denomination. This knowledge enhances appreciation for the stamp’s role within the broader historical narrative and allows collectors and researchers to accurately assess its value and place within philatelic history. The intersection of denomination and design underscores the importance of meticulous detail in understanding historical artifacts.
4. Engraved portrait
The engraved portrait on the Hayes 11-cent stamp represents a key element of its design and historical significance. Engraving, a dominant printing method during the 19th century, offered a level of detail and security well-suited for postage stamps. Examining the engraved portrait of President Hayes provides insights into artistic techniques, printing processes, and the cultural context surrounding presidential representation on postage.
- Artistic Technique
The engraved portrait reflects the skill and artistry of the engraver. Intricate lines and shading create a three-dimensional effect, capturing Hayes’s likeness with precision. This meticulous process involved transferring the image onto a steel plate, which was then used to print the stamps. The style of the portrait adheres to artistic conventions of the period, offering a glimpse into portraiture trends of the late 19th century.
- Security Measure
Engraving served as a security feature against counterfeiting. The complexity of the engraved lines made reproduction difficult, safeguarding the integrity of postage. The precise detail inherent in the engraved portrait added a layer of protection, deterring fraudulent replication and maintaining public trust in the postal system.
- Presidential Representation
The engraved portrait of President Hayes on the stamp reinforces his image as head of state. Placing the president’s likeness on postage served as a constant visual reminder of executive authority and national identity. This practice contributed to the public perception of the presidency and its role in daily life.
- Philatelic Significance
The engraved portrait contributes to the stamp’s collectibility and philatelic value. The quality of the engraving, its condition, and any variations in the portrait’s appearance among different printings influence a stamp’s desirability among collectors. The engraved portrait becomes a focal point for evaluating the stamp’s aesthetic and historical merit within philately.
The engraved portrait on the Hayes 11-cent stamp is more than just a decorative element. It represents a convergence of artistic skill, security measures, political representation, and philatelic significance. Understanding the role of the engraved portrait provides a deeper appreciation for the stamp as a historical artifact, an example of 19th-century printing technology, and a collectible item with enduring value.
5. Definitive stamp
The Hayes 11-cent stamp belongs to a category known as “definitive stamps.” Definitive stamps constitute the backbone of a nation’s postal system, issued for regular, ongoing use rather than commemorating specific events. Their purpose lies in fulfilling everyday postal needs, providing a readily available means for paying postage on standard mail. Unlike commemorative stamps, which enjoy limited print runs and specific thematic focuses, definitive stamps remain in circulation for extended periods, often undergoing design or production changes over time. The Hayes stamp exemplifies this definitive function, serving as a workhorse of the postal system during its period of issue.
The Hayes stamp, as a definitive issue, reflects the postal rates and regulations in effect during 1877. Its eleven-cent denomination likely corresponded to specific mail classes, perhaps covering standard letter rates, domestic package services, or international correspondence. Definitive stamps, including the Hayes issue, offer insights into the historical costs of mailing, reflecting economic conditions and postal policies of their time. Studying definitive issues helps reconstruct historical mailing practices, offering a window into communication patterns and commercial activities of the past. The ongoing use of definitive stamps generates a wealth of postal history data, evidenced through cancellations, postal markings, and usage patterns on surviving examples.
Understanding the distinction between definitive and commemorative stamps provides crucial context for appreciating the Hayes 11-cent stamp’s role within the postal system. Its definitive status underscores its function as a practical tool for daily communication and commerce, contrasting with the more celebratory and limited-edition nature of commemorative issues. Analyzing definitive stamps like the Hayes issue provides valuable insights into historical postal rates, usage patterns, and the evolution of postal services over time. This understanding enhances the stamp’s significance beyond its collectible value, revealing its historical contribution to communication networks and the functioning of society.
6. Philatelic Value
Philatelic value, encompassing factors beyond face value, significantly impacts the desirability and worth of the Hayes 11-cent stamp. This value derives from a confluence of historical context, rarity, condition, and demand within the collecting community. Understanding these contributing elements provides a framework for assessing the philatelic value of this particular stamp and its position within the broader philatelic market.
- Rarity
Rarity plays a crucial role in determining philatelic value. The Hayes 11-cent stamp exists in several variations, some considerably scarcer than others. Factors influencing rarity include printing errors, specific perforation or grill varieties, and the overall survival rate of stamps in good condition. Scarcer versions command higher prices due to limited availability and increased collector demand.
- Condition
Condition significantly impacts a stamp’s value. Factors such as centering, gum condition (if unused), perforations, and the absence of flaws like tears or creases influence desirability. Well-centered stamps with intact gum and pristine surfaces command premium prices, reflecting collector preference for high-quality examples. Damage or flaws detract from value, even for rare varieties.
- Historical Context
Historical context contributes to philatelic value. The Hayes 11-cent stamp represents a specific period in US history, reflecting postal rates, printing technologies, and presidential iconography of the late 19th century. This historical significance adds to its appeal for collectors interested in the era and its material culture. Connecting a stamp to significant historical events or figures can enhance its value.
- Demand
Collector demand influences market prices. Fluctuations in demand, driven by factors like current trends, new research, or rediscovery of rare varieties, impact a stamp’s perceived worth. Active collector interest drives competition and price increases, while waning interest can lead to price adjustments. Understanding market dynamics provides insights into potential value fluctuations.
Assessing the philatelic value of a Hayes 11-cent stamp requires careful consideration of these interconnected factors. Rarity, condition, historical context, and collector demand contribute to its overall worth within the philatelic market. Evaluating these elements allows collectors and researchers to appreciate the stamp’s significance beyond its face value, recognizing its place within the broader history of postage and the dynamics of collecting.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the 1877 Hayes 11-cent stamp, providing concise and informative responses.
Question 1: What distinguishes the 1877 Hayes 11-cent stamp from other stamps of the era?
The stamp’s unique features include the engraved portrait of President Rutherford B. Hayes, the eleven-cent denomination reflecting postal rates of the time, and its placement within the 1877 definitive issue. Variations in perforation, grill, and paper type further differentiate specific examples.
Question 2: How is the value of a Hayes 11-cent stamp determined?
Several factors influence value: condition (centering, gum, flaws), rarity (determined by variety and survival rate), historical context (connection to President Hayes and the 1877 issue), and market demand among collectors.
Question 3: Where can one acquire a genuine Hayes 11-cent stamp?
Reputable stamp dealers, auction houses specializing in philatelic material, and online marketplaces offer avenues for acquisition. Authentication and careful condition assessment are crucial before purchase.
Question 4: What are the key varieties of the Hayes 11-cent stamp collectors should be aware of?
Significant varieties relate to different grill patterns (e.g., “A” grill, “B” grill), perforation gauges (e.g., 12×12, 11×10), and paper types. Consulting specialized catalogs and expert opinions aids in accurate identification.
Question 5: How should a Hayes 11-cent stamp be stored to preserve its condition?
Archival-quality stamp albums, mounts, and acid-free storage materials are essential. Maintaining stable temperature and humidity levels protects against environmental damage. Avoiding direct sunlight prevents fading.
Question 6: What resources offer further information on this specific stamp?
Specialized philatelic literature, including catalogs like the Scott Specialized Catalogue of United States Stamps and Covers, offers detailed information on varieties, values, and historical context. Online philatelic forums and societies provide platforms for further research and interaction with experienced collectors.
Careful consideration of these frequently asked questions empowers informed collecting decisions and fosters a deeper understanding of the Hayes 11-cent stamp’s historical and philatelic significance.
The following section will explore further resources and avenues for engaging with the broader philatelic community interested in the Hayes 11-cent stamp and related postal history topics.
Conclusion
Exploration of the 1877 eleven-cent Hayes stamp reveals a multifaceted artifact reflecting historical, technological, and artistic trends of its era. Analysis of its production, usage within the postal system, and variations in design and printing offers valuable insights into late 19th-century America. Its definitive function underscores its role in facilitating daily communication, while its engraved portrait captures a specific moment in presidential representation. Further investigation into rarity, condition, and market dynamics illuminates its philatelic significance, demonstrating the interplay of historical context and collector demand.
The enduring interest in the eleven-cent Hayes stamp underscores the power of philately to connect individuals with the past. These seemingly small pieces of paper offer tangible links to historical figures, technological advancements, and evolving communication networks. Continued research and engagement with philatelic resources promise deeper understanding of this specific stamp and its broader historical context, enriching appreciation for the intricate narratives embedded within postal history. Preserving and studying these artifacts ensures that these historical threads remain accessible to future generations, fostering ongoing exploration and discovery within the field of philately.
