The first United States postage stamp to honor a woman depicted Martha Washington, the wife of George Washington, and was issued with a denomination of one and a half cents in 1883. This small, engraved stamp, printed in brown ink, features a profile portrait of Martha Washington based on a painting by Charles Francois Jalabert. It holds a unique position within American philately as part of the definitive series (regular-issue stamps for everyday use) and reflects a notable step towards recognizing women’s contributions to American history.
Issued during a period of expansion and modernization within the United States Postal Service, this stamp served a practical purpose in facilitating mail delivery while also carrying symbolic weight. Its release was significant in acknowledging Martha Washington’s role as the first First Lady and her influence during the formative years of the nation. Furthermore, it marked a turning point in philatelic design, paving the way for future stamps featuring prominent female figures. The stamp’s historical context intertwines with the evolving understanding of women’s roles in society and their representation in public spheres.
Further exploration of this topic may include a deeper dive into the production process of the stamp, the chosen design elements, its value and rarity among collectors, and its broader significance within the history of American postage. Additionally, examining other stamps from the same series provides valuable insight into the prevalent design aesthetics and postal practices of the era.
Tips for Collectors of the 1883 Martha Washington Stamp
Acquiring and preserving the 1883 Martha Washington one-and-a-half-cent stamp requires careful consideration. The following tips offer guidance for both novice and experienced collectors.
Tip 1: Authentication is Crucial: Verify the stamp’s authenticity through reputable sources like certified philatelic experts or established auction houses. Counterfeit stamps exist, and careful examination is necessary.
Tip 2: Condition Affects Value: Factors like centering, gum condition (if unused), perforations, and any flaws significantly influence a stamp’s value. Higher grades command premium prices.
Tip 3: Proper Storage is Essential: Protect stamps from humidity, light, and temperature fluctuations. Acid-free albums and mounts are recommended for long-term preservation.
Tip 4: Research Thoroughly Before Purchasing: Understand the different varieties and market values before acquiring a stamp. Specialized catalogs and online resources offer valuable information.
Tip 5: Handle with Care: Always use stamp tongs to avoid transferring oils and fingerprints, which can damage the stamp.
Tip 6: Consider Professional Grading: For valuable specimens, professional grading by reputable organizations provides an objective assessment of condition and authenticity, enhancing their marketability.
By following these guidelines, collectors can ensure the preservation and appreciation of this important piece of American philatelic history. A well-maintained collection not only holds historical significance but can also represent a valuable investment.
These tips provide a starting point for building a collection or enhancing existing holdings. Continued research and engagement with the philatelic community are essential for developing expertise in this specialized area.
1. First U.S. woman on a stamp
The distinction of being the first woman featured on a United States postage stamp belongs to Martha Washington, as depicted on the 1883 one-and-a-half-cent stamp. This historical milestone reflects evolving societal attitudes toward women and their recognition within the public sphere. It also holds significant relevance for philatelists and historians studying 19th-century American culture.
- Symbolic Importance
Featuring Martha Washington, wife of the first U.S. President, carried substantial symbolic weight. Her presence on a postage stamp acknowledged her role as the first First Lady and her influence during the nation’s formative years. This act represented a significant step toward greater recognition of women’s contributions to national history, albeit within the confines of traditional gender roles.
- Philatelic Significance
The 1883 stamp marked a turning point in American philately. It established a precedent for portraying prominent women on future stamps, expanding the range of subjects deemed worthy of national recognition. This broadened the scope of philatelic material and added a new dimension to stamp collecting, providing insights into social and cultural values.
- Historical Context
The stamp’s issuance coincided with a period of social change and increasing discussions regarding women’s roles in society. While Martha Washington’s portrayal adhered to conventional representations of femininity, the very act of placing her image on a stamp reflected shifting perspectives and growing awareness of women’s historical contributions. This context is crucial for understanding the stamp’s reception and enduring legacy.
- Impact on Future Stamp Design
The decision to feature Martha Washington influenced subsequent stamp designs. It opened the door for the depiction of other prominent American women on postage, reflecting a gradual expansion of representation within national iconography. The 1883 stamp therefore serves as a pivotal link between earlier, predominantly male-centric stamp designs and later, more inclusive representations.
In conclusion, the “First U.S. woman on a stamp” designation associated with the 1883 Martha Washington issue extends beyond mere philatelic trivia. It encapsulates broader historical and cultural shifts, marking a significant moment in the representation of women within American society and its evolving national narratives. Studying this seemingly small detail provides valuable insights into the larger forces shaping the late 19th-century American landscape.
2. Issued 1883
The year 1883 holds specific relevance for the Martha Washington one-and-a-half-cent postage stamp as its date of issuance. This places the stamp within a particular historical and philatelic context, providing insights into the prevailing postal practices, design aesthetics, and social values of the era. Understanding the significance of the “Issued 1883” designation requires examining the stamp’s role within the broader narrative of 19th-century American history.
The postal system in 1883 was undergoing a period of modernization and expansion. The introduction of new stamp designs and denominations reflected efforts to improve efficiency and meet the growing demands of a developing nation. The Martha Washington stamp, as part of this modernization effort, served a practical purpose in facilitating mail delivery. Moreover, its issuance coincided with increasing public discourse on women’s roles in society. While not explicitly a suffrage piece, the stamp’s release reflected a growing acknowledgment of women’s historical contributions, even if presented within traditional frameworks.
Examining the “Issued 1883” aspect offers valuable context for collectors and historians. It helps establish the stamp’s rarity and potential value within the philatelic market. Furthermore, it allows for comparisons with other stamps issued during the same period, providing insights into prevalent design trends and printing techniques. The 1883 date situates the Martha Washington stamp within a specific historical moment, enriching its meaning and significance beyond its face value. This understanding enhances appreciation for the stamp as both a functional object and a cultural artifact reflecting the complexities of its time.
3. Brown, engraved design
The 1883 Martha Washington one-and-a-half-cent postage stamp’s “brown, engraved design” is a key element for identification and appreciation. This design choice reflects the printing technology and aesthetic preferences of the era, offering insights into the production and visual impact of 19th-century postage stamps. Examining this aspect enhances understanding of the stamp’s historical context and its place within philately.
- Engraving Technique
Engraving, the dominant printing method for stamps during that period, involved meticulously carving the design into a metal plate. This process allowed for intricate detail and crisp lines, evident in the portrait of Martha Washington and the surrounding typographic elements. The engraved design contributed to the stamp’s security and visual appeal.
- Brown Ink
The choice of brown ink was typical for stamps of this era. Brown inks were readily available, relatively stable, and provided sufficient contrast for postal cancellation marks. The brown hue contributes to the stamp’s vintage appearance and adds to its distinctive character.
- Security and Durability
The combination of engraving and brown ink enhanced the stamp’s resistance to counterfeiting. The intricate detail achieved through engraving made reproduction difficult, while the ink’s properties contributed to its longevity. These practical considerations were paramount in stamp production during the 19th century.
- Aesthetic Considerations
The brown, engraved design contributed to the stamp’s overall aesthetic appeal. The fine lines and subtle shading created a sophisticated and dignified image, befitting the subject matter. This design choice reflected contemporary artistic sensibilities and contributed to the stamp’s collectibility.
In summary, the “brown, engraved design” of the 1883 Martha Washington stamp is more than just a descriptive detail. It offers insights into 19th-century printing techniques, design aesthetics, and practical considerations related to security and functionality. Understanding these aspects enhances appreciation for the stamp’s historical significance and its enduring appeal to collectors.
4. One-and-a-half-cent denomination
The one-and-a-half-cent denomination of the 1883 Martha Washington postage stamp provides a crucial link to understanding postal rates and practices of the era. This unusual denomination reflects specific historical circumstances and offers valuable insights into the evolving needs of the United States Postal Service during the late 19th century. Exploring this aspect illuminates the stamp’s practical function and its connection to broader economic and social trends.
- Postal Rate Context
The one-and-a-half-cent denomination corresponded to a specific postal rate for certain types of mail, likely for printed matter or other specialized categories. This rate structure reflects the granular approach to postal pricing during that period, with different rates applied based on weight, destination, and mail class. Researching contemporary postal regulations illuminates the specific purpose this denomination served.
- Reflecting Economic Conditions
The existence of a one-and-a-half-cent rate suggests an attempt by the Postal Service to align its pricing with prevailing economic conditions. Specific costs associated with printing, handling, and distribution likely influenced the establishment of this particular rate. Analyzing historical economic data can provide further context for this denomination’s rationale.
- Philatelic Implications
The unusual denomination contributes to the 1883 Martha Washington stamp’s distinctiveness and collectibility. Its relative scarcity compared to more common denominations often increases its value among philatelists. Understanding the historical context of the denomination adds another layer of appreciation for collectors.
- Evolution of Postal Rates
The one-and-a-half-cent denomination represents a specific point in the evolution of U.S. postal rates. Tracking changes in postal rates over time reveals how this specific denomination fit within the broader historical trajectory of postal pricing and reflects changing economic and logistical factors influencing postal operations.
In conclusion, the one-and-a-half-cent denomination of the Martha Washington stamp offers more than just a numerical value. It serves as a window into the intricacies of 19th-century postal operations, economic conditions, and the evolving needs of a growing nation. This understanding enriches appreciation for the stamp’s historical significance and its place within the larger narrative of American philately.
5. Part of definitive series
The designation “part of definitive series” applied to the 1883 Martha Washington one-and-a-half-cent postage stamp signifies its intended function as a regular-issue stamp for everyday postal use. Definitive series differ from commemorative issues, which mark specific events or anniversaries. This distinction highlights the stamp’s role within the broader operations of the United States Postal Service during the late 19th century. Inclusion within a definitive series signifies widespread circulation and availability, contrasting with the limited production runs and targeted distribution of commemorative stamps. This regular-issue status underscores the stamp’s practical purpose in facilitating routine mail delivery across the nation.
Definitive stamps, by their nature, see widespread use across various mail classes and destinations. Their designs often feature national symbols, allegorical figures, or prominent individuals, reflecting a sense of national identity and purpose. The Martha Washington stamp, while honoring a specific historical figure, served the everyday postal needs of the public. This contrasts with commemorative stamps, which typically focus on specific events or anniversaries and hold greater appeal for collectors due to their limited availability. The Martha Washington stamp’s inclusion in the definitive series demonstrates its integration into the daily fabric of American communication.
Understanding the distinction between definitive and commemorative stamps provides valuable context for appreciating the 1883 Martha Washington issue. Its definitive status underscores its widespread use and historical significance within the evolution of the U.S. postal system. This knowledge enhances the stamp’s value not only for collectors but also for historians studying 19th-century American culture and communication. The stamp’s regular use across various correspondence types emphasizes its practical function alongside its symbolic representation of the first First Lady.
6. Based on Jalabert painting
The 1883 Martha Washington one-and-a-half-cent postage stamp’s design, based on a painting by Charles Franois Jalabert, directly connects the stamp to a specific artistic source. Jalabert’s portrait of Martha Washington served as the visual foundation for the stamp’s engraved image. This artistic lineage adds a layer of complexity to the stamp’s interpretation, linking it to broader artistic traditions and raising questions regarding artistic license, reproduction accuracy, and the interplay between art and philately. Understanding this connection provides a deeper appreciation for the stamp’s creation and cultural context.
Choosing Jalabert’s portrait influenced the stamp’s visual presentation of Martha Washington. Specific stylistic elements from the painting, such as pose, facial expression, and attire, were translated onto the stamp, shaping public perception of the First Lady. This artistic interpretation, mediated through the engraving process, became the definitive image of Martha Washington for millions of postal users. Comparing the stamp’s design with Jalabert’s original painting reveals the engraver’s choices in adapting the artwork to the constraints of stamp production. This analysis sheds light on the artistic and technical processes involved in translating a painted portrait into a miniaturized, engraved image for mass distribution. Furthermore, examining other depictions of Martha Washington from the period allows for comparisons and contrasts, highlighting the specific aesthetic qualities conveyed by Jalabert’s portrayal.
In conclusion, the phrase “Based on Jalabert painting” provides a crucial link between the 1883 Martha Washington stamp and its artistic source. This connection underscores the role of artistic interpretation in shaping public perception of historical figures and highlights the interplay between art, technology, and mass communication. Understanding this artistic lineage enhances appreciation for the stamp’s creation and adds another dimension to its historical and cultural significance within the realm of 19th-century American visual culture. Further research into Jalabert’s artistic career and the broader context of portraiture during this period can enrich understanding of the stamp’s design choices and their potential impact on public perception of Martha Washington.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the 1883 Martha Washington one-and-a-half-cent postage stamp, providing concise and informative responses.
Question 1: What makes this stamp historically significant?
Its significance stems from featuring the first woman on a U.S. postage stamp, marking a shift in recognizing women’s contributions within national narratives.
Question 2: How can one determine the authenticity of this stamp?
Authentication requires careful examination and consultation with reputable philatelic experts or established auction houses specializing in stamp verification.
Question 3: What factors influence the value of an 1883 Martha Washington stamp?
Condition, including centering, gum condition (if unused), perforations, and any flaws, significantly impacts value, with higher grades commanding premium prices.
Question 4: Why was the one-and-a-half-cent denomination chosen?
This unusual denomination corresponded to specific postal rates for certain mail classes during that era, reflecting the granular pricing structure of the late 19th-century postal system.
Question 5: How should one store this stamp to ensure its preservation?
Proper storage requires acid-free albums and mounts, protection from humidity, light, and temperature fluctuations, and handling with stamp tongs to prevent damage.
Question 6: Where can one find reliable information regarding the stamp’s value and varieties?
Specialized stamp catalogs, reputable online resources, and expert philatelic dealers offer valuable information regarding market values and different varieties.
Careful consideration of these frequently asked questions aids in understanding the historical significance, value, and proper care of the 1883 Martha Washington stamp. Further research and engagement with philatelic resources can enhance knowledge and appreciation of this important piece of American philately.
For further exploration, consider researching the production process, design elements, and the broader historical context of 19th-century postage in the United States.
The Martha Washington 1 1/2 Cent Postage Stamp
Exploration of the Martha Washington 1 1/2 cent postage stamp reveals a confluence of historical, social, and artistic influences. Issued in 1883, this unassuming piece of postal ephemera holds significant weight as the first U.S. postage stamp to feature a woman, marking a turning point in national iconography. Its brown, engraved design, based on a Jalabert painting, reflects the prevailing aesthetic and technological standards of the era. Furthermore, its unusual one-and-a-half-cent denomination offers insights into the intricacies of 19th-century postal rates. As a component of a definitive series, it served the everyday communication needs of a growing nation, underscoring its practical function alongside its symbolic representation of the first First Lady. The stamp’s creation, circulation, and enduring presence in philatelic collections underscore its multifaceted significance.
The Martha Washington 1 1/2 cent postage stamp serves as a tangible link to a pivotal period in American history. Its study provides valuable insights into the evolving roles of women in society, the development of postal systems, and the intersection of art and commerce. This seemingly small artifact offers a window into a larger narrative of national identity, technological advancement, and changing social values. Continued research and appreciation of such philatelic treasures enrich understanding of the past and its enduring relevance to the present. Preserving and studying these artifacts ensures that the stories they embody continue to inform and inspire future generations.
