The United States Postage 1 Cent George Washington stamp is one of the most iconic and enduring symbols of American postal history. First issued in 1847, this stamp features a portrait of George Washington, the first President of the United States, and was designed to be used for mailing letters weighing up to 1/2 ounce. The stamp's design is a testament to the reverence in which Washington was held by the American people, and its issuance marked the beginning of a long tradition of honoring the nation's founding fathers on postage stamps.
Key Points
- The 1 Cent George Washington stamp was first issued in 1847 and was the first postage stamp issued by the United States.
- The stamp features a portrait of George Washington, based on a painting by Gilbert Stuart.
- The stamp was designed to be used for mailing letters weighing up to 1/2 ounce.
- The stamp's design has undergone several changes over the years, including changes to the stamp's color, paper, and perforation.
- The 1 Cent George Washington stamp is highly collectible and is considered one of the most iconic and valuable stamps in American philately.
History of the 1 Cent George Washington Stamp
The 1 Cent George Washington stamp was first issued on July 1, 1847, as part of the United States’ first series of postage stamps. The stamp was designed by James B. Longacre, who was the Chief Engraver of the United States Mint at the time. The stamp features a portrait of George Washington, based on a painting by Gilbert Stuart, which is considered one of the most iconic and enduring images of Washington. The stamp’s design is simple, yet elegant, and features the words “United States Postage” at the top, with the denomination “One Cent” at the bottom.
Design and Printing
The 1 Cent George Washington stamp was printed using a combination of line engraving and typography. The stamp’s portrait of Washington was engraved by Longacre, while the typography was done by the Toppan, Carpenter, Casilear, & Co. printing company. The stamp was printed on paper that was watermarked with a pattern of lines and stars, and was perforated using a gauge of 12. The stamp’s color was a deep blue, which was later changed to a lighter blue in 1851.
| Stamp Details | Description |
|---|---|
| Denomination | 1 Cent |
| Color | Deep Blue (1847-1851), Light Blue (1851-1861) |
| Paper | Watermarked with lines and stars |
| Perforation | Gauge 12 |
| Printing Method | Line Engraving and Typography |
Collectibility and Value
The 1 Cent George Washington stamp is highly collectible and is considered one of the most iconic and valuable stamps in American philately. The stamp’s value depends on several factors, including its condition, rarity, and provenance. Some rare varieties of the stamp, such as the 1847 issue with a perforation error, can sell for thousands of dollars. As a collector, it’s essential to work with reputable dealers and to carefully examine the stamp’s condition and authenticity before making a purchase.
Authentication and Condition
Authenticating the 1 Cent George Washington stamp requires careful examination of the stamp’s design, paper, and perforation. The stamp’s condition is also crucial, with minor flaws or defects significantly affecting its value. As a collector, it’s essential to work with reputable dealers and to carefully examine the stamp’s condition and authenticity before making a purchase. The stamp’s provenance, or history of ownership, can also impact its value, with stamps that have been owned by prominent collectors or have been exhibited in major philatelic exhibitions commanding higher prices.
What is the rarest variety of the 1 Cent George Washington stamp?
+The rarest variety of the 1 Cent George Washington stamp is the 1847 issue with a perforation error, which can sell for thousands of dollars.
How do I authenticate the 1 Cent George Washington stamp?
+Authenticating the 1 Cent George Washington stamp requires careful examination of the stamp's design, paper, and perforation, as well as its condition and provenance.
What is the value of a mint condition 1 Cent George Washington stamp?
+The value of a mint condition 1 Cent George Washington stamp depends on several factors, including its rarity, condition, and provenance, but can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars.
In conclusion, the 1 Cent George Washington stamp is a highly collectible and valuable stamp that is steeped in history and significance. As a philatelist, it’s essential to understand the stamp’s design, printing, and collectibility to appreciate its value and importance. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting out, the 1 Cent George Washington stamp is a must-have for any serious philatelic collection.
