The 1925 commemorative postage, featuring the image of American patriot Nathan Hale, was issued in the half-cent denomination, a relatively uncommon value in US philately. This stamp depicts Hale, a soldier in the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War, who was executed by the British for espionage. The design showcases a portrait of Hale based on a contemporary painting.
This small stamp holds significant historical weight. It commemorates a key figure of the American Revolution, recognizing Hale’s sacrifice and patriotism. Its issuance in 1925 coincided with the sesquicentennial of the battles of Lexington and Concord, further amplifying its connection to this pivotal period in American history. The relatively low face value of a half-cent also makes it a unique collectible for philatelists, offering a glimpse into the postal rates and practices of the era.
Further exploration into this commemorative issue reveals fascinating insights into the design process, printing methods, and the overall impact of such stamps on public perception of historical figures and events. Collecting and studying these artifacts offers a tangible connection to the past and a deeper understanding of American history and culture.
Tips for Collectors of the 1925 Nathan Hale Commemorative Stamp
Acquiring and preserving the 1925 Nathan Hale half-cent commemorative stamp requires careful consideration. These tips offer guidance for both novice and experienced collectors.
Tip 1: Condition is Key: Stamp condition significantly impacts value. Look for specimens with minimal wear, vibrant color, and intact perforations.
Tip 2: Authentication Matters: Seek stamps accompanied by certificates of authenticity from reputable philatelic organizations. This helps ensure genuineness and provenance.
Tip 3: Proper Storage is Crucial: Protect stamps from humidity, light, and temperature fluctuations. Archival-quality albums and mounts are recommended.
Tip 4: Research Thoroughly: Understanding the stamp’s history, variations, and market value allows for informed purchasing decisions.
Tip 5: Network with Experts: Joining philatelic societies and engaging with experienced collectors provides valuable insights and opportunities for trading and acquisition.
Tip 6: Handle with Care: Always use stamp tongs to avoid damaging the delicate surface and perforations.
Tip 7: Consider Professional Grading: For high-value stamps, professional grading can enhance their marketability and provide an objective assessment of condition.
By following these guidelines, collectors can build valuable and historically significant collections while preserving these fragile pieces of history for future generations.
These collecting best practices provide a foundation for appreciating the nuanced details and historical significance of the 1925 Nathan Hale commemorative issue.
1. 1925 Issuance
The 1925 issuance date holds significant relevance for the Nathan Hale half-cent stamp, connecting it directly to the sesquicentennial celebrations of the Battles of Lexington and Concord. This commemorative context elevates the stamp beyond its purely postal function, imbuing it with historical significance. The timing of the issuance suggests a deliberate effort to link Hale’s patriotism with the broader narrative of the American Revolution’s origins, reinforcing national identity during a period of historical reflection. Issuing the stamp during this anniversary amplified its message and likely contributed to its popularity.
The choice of 1925 also provides insight into the prevailing cultural and political climate. The mid-1920s witnessed a surge in patriotic sentiment and a renewed interest in American history. Commemorative stamps, like the Hale issue, served as tangible reminders of national heritage, accessible to a broad public. The 1925 issuance effectively capitalized on this societal context, ensuring the stamp resonated with a receptive audience. Furthermore, the relatively low denomination, a half-cent, made it accessible to a wider public, further contributing to its potential impact.
Understanding the historical context of the 1925 issuance provides a richer appreciation of the Nathan Hale half-cent stamp. It underscores the stamp’s commemorative purpose and its role in shaping public perception of historical figures and events. Analyzing this aspect enhances the study of philately, providing a deeper understanding of how stamps reflect and interact with the broader historical narrative. This intersection of historical context and philatelic artifact offers valuable insights into the cultural landscape of the 1920s.
2. Half-cent Denomination
The half-cent denomination of the 1925 Nathan Hale commemorative stamp offers a unique perspective on postal rates and practices of the era. While seemingly insignificant, this fractional value played a specific role in the postal system. Half-cent stamps were not typically used for everyday postage but often found application in bulk mailings, covering the cost of specific postal services or making up precise postage amounts alongside other denominations. Therefore, the Nathan Hale stamp’s half-cent value likely targeted specific mailing needs rather than standard letter postage. This specialized use contributes to the stamp’s relative scarcity compared to more common denominations, enhancing its appeal to collectors.
The selection of a half-cent denomination for a commemorative issue also reflects broader economic conditions and printing practices. Producing stamps in smaller denominations allowed for greater flexibility in setting postal rates and potentially reduced production costs compared to higher-value stamps. Additionally, the half-cent denomination may have broadened access to the commemorative issue, making it affordable for a wider public. Examples of other half-cent stamps from the period further illustrate the practical applications of this fractional value within the postal system, often used for bulk mailings of newspapers, periodicals, or advertising materials. This contextualizes the Hale stamp within the larger framework of postal history.
Understanding the role of the half-cent denomination enhances appreciation of the Nathan Hale stamp. It provides insight into the economic and logistical considerations behind stamp production and usage. This specialized value contributes to the stamp’s rarity and collectible nature. Recognizing the historical context surrounding fractional denominations enriches philatelic knowledge and provides a deeper understanding of the stamp’s place within the broader postal landscape. Further research into contemporary postal regulations and practices would illuminate the specific applications of half-cent stamps during this period.
3. Nathan Hale Portrait
The portrait of Nathan Hale on the 1925 half-cent stamp serves as the central design element, directly linking the stamp to the historical figure and the commemorative intent. The specific image chosen, its artistic rendering, and its symbolic representation of Hale contribute significantly to the stamp’s historical meaning and its value to collectors. Understanding the portrait’s origin, style, and intended message provides crucial context for appreciating the stamp’s overall significance.
- Source Image
The portrait on the stamp derives from a contemporary painting, likely idealized and potentially influenced by existing depictions of Hale. Determining the precise source image provides insights into the historical accuracy and artistic interpretations of Hale’s likeness. Researching the chosen artwork and its historical context clarifies the design choices made for the stamp and how it reflects the understanding of Hale’s image during the stamp’s creation.
- Artistic Style
The engraving style employed on the stamp translates the original artwork into a format suitable for printing on a small scale. The engraver’s skill and technique influence the final appearance of the portrait, impacting its aesthetic appeal and historical representation. Analyzing the engraving technique provides insight into the artistic choices made in representing Hale and the technical limitations of stamp production in the 1920s.
- Symbolic Representation
The portrait functions as more than just a likeness; it embodies Hale’s patriotism and sacrifice. The image projects an air of dignity and resolve, reinforcing the narrative of Hale as a national hero. This symbolic representation of Hale connects the stamp to the broader historical context of the American Revolution and the values it represents. Examining the portrait’s symbolism deepens understanding of how stamps can convey complex historical narratives through visual representation.
- Public Perception
The stamp’s widespread circulation contributed to shaping public perception of Nathan Hale. The chosen portrait became a readily recognizable image of the revolutionary hero, solidifying a particular visual interpretation of his persona. Understanding how this image influenced public understanding of Hale provides insight into the stamp’s impact on historical memory and its role in shaping national narratives. Comparing the stamp’s portrait with other depictions of Hale reveals the evolving interpretations of his image over time.
By exploring these facets of the Nathan Hale portrait, one gains a richer understanding of the 1925 half-cent stamp. The portrait serves as a focal point, connecting the physical artifact to the broader historical narrative and the stamp’s commemorative purpose. Further research into portraiture, engraving techniques, and historical memory enhances this understanding and provides a deeper appreciation of the stamp’s significance within American history and philately.
4. Commemorative Design
The commemorative design of the 1925 Nathan Hale half-cent stamp distinguishes it from regular issue postage. Commemorative stamps serve to honor individuals, events, or ideals, transforming a utilitarian object into a miniature historical artifact. Understanding the design choices and their historical context provides valuable insight into the stamp’s purpose and cultural significance. The Nathan Hale stamp exemplifies this commemorative function, serving as a lasting tribute to a Revolutionary War hero.
- Subject Matter
The selection of Nathan Hale as the subject reflects a conscious decision to honor his patriotism and sacrifice during the American Revolution. This choice elevates Hale to a position of national prominence, solidifying his image as a symbol of American ideals. Other commemorative stamps from the era similarly highlight key figures and events, demonstrating a broader cultural interest in preserving and promoting historical memory through philately. The choice of Hale specifically resonates with themes of courage and selflessness.
- Visual Elements
The portrait of Hale, based on existing artwork, dominates the design. The simple yet dignified portrayal emphasizes his heroism. The inclusion of his name and the year “1776” further contextualize the stamp within the historical narrative. These visual elements work together to create a cohesive and impactful commemorative message. Comparing the design with other commemorative stamps reveals the stylistic conventions and visual language employed during this period.
- Historical Context
The 1925 issuance date coincides with the 150th anniversary of the Battles of Lexington and Concord, connecting Hale’s story to the broader narrative of the American Revolution. This timing amplifies the stamp’s commemorative power, linking individual sacrifice to the larger struggle for independence. The historical context underscores the stamp’s significance as part of a larger national commemoration. Researching the historical climate of 1925 provides further insight into the cultural motivations behind the stamp’s issuance.
- Cultural Impact
The stamp’s wide circulation ensured its role in shaping public perception of Nathan Hale. The chosen image and its commemorative context contributed to a popular understanding of Hale as a patriotic icon. This cultural impact highlights the power of stamps as vehicles for disseminating historical narratives and shaping collective memory. Analyzing the stamp’s reception and its long-term influence on Hale’s image provides a deeper understanding of its cultural significance.
Analyzing these facets of the commemorative design provides a comprehensive understanding of the Nathan Hale half-cent stamp’s significance. The design choices, informed by historical context and artistic conventions, transform a simple postage stamp into a powerful symbol of national heritage and a lasting tribute to an American hero. Further investigation into commemorative practices of the period and the broader cultural impact of such stamps enriches this understanding. The stamp serves not only as a collectible artifact but also as a window into the cultural and historical landscape of the 1920s.
5. Revolutionary War
The 1925 Nathan Hale half-cent stamp is inextricably linked to the Revolutionary War. The stamp commemorates Hale’s service and sacrifice during this pivotal conflict, directly connecting the artifact to a crucial period in American history. Hale’s execution by the British for espionage underscores the high stakes of the war and the risks undertaken by those fighting for independence. The stamp’s issuance serves as a tangible reminder of the war’s significance and the human cost of the struggle. The very existence of the stamp hinges on the historical events of the Revolutionary War; without the war, there would be no Nathan Hale to commemorate. This inherent connection elevates the stamp beyond a mere collectible, transforming it into a small piece of historical memory.
The stamp’s commemorative purpose reinforces the importance of the Revolutionary War as a foundational event in American history. By honoring Hale, the stamp implicitly celebrates the ideals of liberty and self-governance for which he fought. The 1925 issuance, coinciding with the sesquicentennial of Lexington and Concord, further emphasizes this connection, placing Hale’s story within the broader narrative of the war’s origins. The stamp’s circulation during this anniversary period likely served as a powerful reminder of the nation’s founding principles and the sacrifices made to secure them. The choice of Hale as a subject highlights the importance of individual contributions to the larger struggle for independence. His story, encapsulated in the miniature artwork of the stamp, offers a personalized connection to the historical context.
Understanding the link between the Nathan Hale stamp and the Revolutionary War provides crucial context for appreciating its significance. The stamp functions as more than a collectible; it acts as a tangible link to a pivotal period in American history. Recognizing the historical context surrounding Hale’s service and sacrifice enhances understanding of the stamp’s commemorative intent. This connection illuminates the power of stamps to encapsulate and transmit historical narratives across generations. Further exploration into the Revolutionary War period and the experiences of individuals like Nathan Hale enriches the study of this philatelic artifact, adding layers of meaning and historical depth to the stamp’s seemingly simple design.
6. Patriotic Symbol
The 1925 Nathan Hale half-cent stamp functions as a powerful patriotic symbol, embodying national ideals and commemorating a key figure of the American Revolution. The stamp’s symbolism transcends its function as postage, transforming it into a miniature artifact that encapsulates historical memory, national identity, and the values associated with the struggle for independence. Understanding this symbolic dimension provides crucial context for appreciating the stamp’s cultural and historical significance.
- Embodiment of National Values
The stamp embodies national values such as courage, sacrifice, and the pursuit of liberty. Hale’s willingness to risk his life for his country aligns with deeply held American ideals. The stamp’s commemorative design reinforces these values, presenting Hale as an exemplar of patriotism. Examples of other patriotic symbols, such as the American flag or the Liberty Bell, demonstrate the use of tangible objects to represent abstract ideals. The Hale stamp functions similarly, encapsulating complex concepts within a small, visually accessible format.
- Commemoration of a National Hero
The stamp serves as a commemoration of Nathan Hale, transforming him into a national hero. The act of issuing a stamp in his honor elevates Hale’s status and solidifies his place within the pantheon of American patriots. This commemoration reinforces historical memory, ensuring that Hale’s story and sacrifice are not forgotten. Monuments, holidays, and other commemorative practices similarly serve to honor national heroes, demonstrating a cultural imperative to remember and celebrate those who have contributed significantly to the nation’s history. The Hale stamp participates in this broader cultural practice of commemoration.
- Reinforcement of National Identity
The stamp reinforces national identity by visually linking Hale’s story to the broader narrative of the American Revolution. The image of Hale, combined with the year 1776, creates a powerful visual shorthand for the struggle for independence. This reinforcement of national identity serves to unify citizens around shared values and historical experiences. National anthems, flags, and other symbols similarly function to reinforce national identity, creating a sense of collective belonging and shared heritage. The Hale stamp contributes to this ongoing process of identity formation and reinforcement.
- Transmission of Historical Memory
The stamp plays a role in transmitting historical memory across generations. By representing Hale in a readily recognizable and widely circulated format, the stamp ensures that his story remains accessible to a broad public. This transmission of historical memory helps to maintain a connection to the past and reinforces the importance of historical understanding. Textbooks, museums, and other educational resources similarly serve to transmit historical memory, but the stamp’s accessibility and visual nature make it a uniquely powerful tool for engaging with the past. The stamp acts as a tangible link to history, making it a readily available and easily understood symbol of the Revolutionary War era.
By exploring these facets of the stamp’s patriotic symbolism, one gains a deeper appreciation for its significance beyond its postal function. The Nathan Hale half-cent stamp serves as a powerful reminder of national values, historical events, and the individuals who shaped the nation’s identity. Its widespread circulation and enduring presence in philatelic collections underscore its lasting impact as a patriotic symbol. Further investigation into the broader cultural context of patriotic symbols and their role in shaping national narratives enriches this understanding and provides a more nuanced appreciation of the stamp’s place within American history and culture. The stamp’s enduring presence in collections and its continued recognition as a symbol of patriotism solidify its place as a significant artifact of American history.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the 1925 Nathan Hale half-cent stamp, providing concise and informative responses.
Question 1: What is the historical significance of the 1925 issuance date?
The 1925 issuance coincided with the sesquicentennial of the Battles of Lexington and Concord, imbuing the stamp with added historical significance related to the broader context of the American Revolution.
Question 2: Why was a half-cent denomination chosen for this commemorative stamp?
While seemingly unusual, the half-cent denomination served specific postal needs, such as bulk mailings or making up precise postage amounts. This fractional value also contributes to the stamp’s relative scarcity.
Question 3: Is the portrait of Nathan Hale on the stamp historically accurate?
The portrait is based on existing artwork, likely idealized interpretations rather than a definitively accurate likeness. Determining the precise source image requires further research.
Question 4: What makes this stamp a collectible item?
Several factors contribute to its collectibility: its commemorative nature, historical context, the relative scarcity of the half-cent denomination, and its connection to a prominent figure of the American Revolution.
Question 5: How can one determine the value of a Nathan Hale half-cent stamp?
Value depends on factors like condition, including centering, color vibrancy, and the presence of any flaws. Consulting philatelic resources and expert appraisers provides more precise valuations.
Question 6: Where can one acquire this stamp for a collection?
Reputable stamp dealers, online marketplaces specializing in philatelic materials, and auctions offer potential avenues for acquiring this commemorative stamp. Due diligence is recommended to ensure authenticity.
Understanding these key aspects of the Nathan Hale half-cent stamp provides a foundation for appreciating its historical context, commemorative purpose, and value within philately. Continued research and engagement with philatelic resources offer further avenues for deeper exploration.
Further sections will delve into specific aspects of the stamp’s production, design variations, and its place within larger philatelic collections.
Nathan Hale Half Cent Stamp
Exploration of the 1925 Nathan Hale half-cent stamp reveals a convergence of historical significance, artistic representation, and philatelic interest. Its issuance during the sesquicentennial of the Battles of Lexington and Concord underscores its commemorative purpose, linking a specific individual to the broader narrative of the American Revolution. The half-cent denomination, while unusual, offers insight into postal practices of the era and contributes to the stamp’s relative scarcity. The chosen portrait of Hale, based on existing artwork, solidifies a particular visual representation of this Revolutionary War figure. Its commemorative design, featuring Hale’s portrait and the significant year 1776, encapsulates a powerful message of patriotism and sacrifice within a miniature format.
The Nathan Hale half-cent stamp stands as more than a simple postage artifact. It serves as a tangible link to a pivotal period in American history, embodying national values and commemorating a key figure who epitomizes courage and patriotism. Further investigation into this unassuming yet symbolically rich artifact offers valuable insights into the cultural, historical, and philatelic landscapes of the 1920s. Continued research and engagement with philatelic resources promise a deeper understanding of this small yet significant piece of American heritage. Preserving and studying such artifacts ensures that the stories and sacrifices of figures like Nathan Hale continue to resonate with future generations.
