The United States stamp catalogue is a comprehensive guide to the vast array of postage stamps issued by the United States Postal Service (USPS) since its inception. With a rich history spanning over two centuries, the USPS has released thousands of stamps, each with its unique design, theme, and story to tell. From the early 19th-century classics to the modern commemorative issues, the US stamp catalogue is a treasure trove for philatelists, collectors, and historians alike.
Early American Stamps (1847-1869)
The first US postage stamps were introduced in 1847, featuring George Washington and Benjamin Franklin. These early stamps were issued in various denominations and designs, with the iconic 1847 5-cent Benjamin Franklin stamp being one of the most sought-after by collectors. The early American stamps were primarily used for postal purposes, but they also served as a means of promoting national unity and pride. During this period, the USPS issued a total of 157 different stamp designs, including the 1861 3-cent Washington stamp, which featured a portrait of the first US president.
Introduction of Commemorative Stamps (1869-1940)
The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw the introduction of commemorative stamps, which were issued to mark significant events, anniversaries, and milestones in American history. The 1869 24-cent Cattle in Storm stamp, for example, was issued to commemorate the transcontinental railroad. Other notable commemorative stamps from this period include the 1901 4-cent Pan-American Exposition stamp and the 1913 5-cent Panama-Pacific Exposition stamp. These stamps not only reflected the country’s growing interest in philately but also helped to promote national pride and cultural awareness.
| Stamp Issue | Year | Denomination |
|---|---|---|
| 1847 Washington | 1847 | 10-cent |
| 1861 Washington | 1861 | 3-cent |
| 1869 Cattle in Storm | 1869 | 24-cent |
| 1901 Pan-American Exposition | 1901 | 4-cent |
| 1913 Panama-Pacific Exposition | 1913 | 5-cent |
Modern US Stamps (1940-Present)
The mid-20th century saw a significant increase in the number of commemorative stamps issued by the USPS. The 1940 3-cent Pony Express stamp, for example, was issued to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Pony Express. Other notable modern US stamps include the 1954 3-cent Liberty Bell stamp and the 1963 5-cent John F. Kennedy stamp. In recent years, the USPS has issued a wide range of stamps featuring popular culture icons, such as Elvis Presley, Marilyn Monroe, and Star Wars characters.
Collecting US Stamps
Collecting US stamps can be a fun and rewarding hobby, with a wide range of stamps to choose from. Whether you’re interested in early American stamps, commemorative stamps, or modern issues, there’s something for every collector. To get started, it’s essential to have a good understanding of the different types of stamps, their denominations, and their historical significance. You’ll also need to invest in a few basic tools, such as a stamp catalog, a magnifying glass, and a set of stamp hinges.
Key Points
- The US stamp catalogue is a comprehensive guide to the vast array of postage stamps issued by the USPS since its inception.
- Early American stamps were primarily used for postal purposes, but they also served as a means of promoting national unity and pride.
- Commemorative stamps were introduced in the late 19th and early 20th centuries to mark significant events, anniversaries, and milestones in American history.
- Modern US stamps feature a wide range of designs, themes, and subjects, including popular culture icons and historical figures.
- Collecting US stamps can be a fun and rewarding hobby, with a wide range of stamps to choose from and a rich history to explore.
Stamp Condition and Grading
The condition and grading of US stamps are critical factors in determining their value and authenticity. Stamp condition refers to the overall state of the stamp, including its centering, perforation, and cancellation. Grading, on the other hand, refers to the process of evaluating the stamp’s condition and assigning a grade based on its quality and rarity. The most commonly used grading system is the American Philatelic Society (APS) grading system, which assigns grades ranging from 1 to 100.
Stamp Authentication and Expertization
Stamp authentication and expertization are essential services for collectors and dealers who want to verify the authenticity and value of their stamps. The APS and other philatelic organizations offer expertization services, which involve examining the stamp and providing a certificate of authenticity. This certificate can help to establish the stamp’s provenance and value, making it more attractive to collectors and investors.
What is the most valuable US stamp?
+The most valuable US stamp is the 1918 24-cent Jenny Invert, which features a biplane flying upside down. In 2018, a mint condition example of this stamp sold for $1.59 million at auction.
How do I start collecting US stamps?
+To start collecting US stamps, you'll need to invest in a few basic tools, such as a stamp catalog, a magnifying glass, and a set of stamp hinges. You can also join a philatelic organization, such as the APS, to connect with other collectors and learn more about the hobby.
What is the difference between a commemorative stamp and a definitive stamp?
+A commemorative stamp is issued to mark a specific event, anniversary, or milestone, while a definitive stamp is a regular issue stamp that is used for everyday postal purposes. Commemorative stamps are typically issued in limited quantities and have a specific design and theme, while definitive stamps are issued in larger quantities and have a more generic design.
In conclusion, the United States stamp catalogue is a vast and fascinating resource that offers something for every collector and philatelist. From the early American stamps to the modern commemorative issues, the US stamp catalogue is a treasure trove of history, culture, and design. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting out, the world of US stamps is sure to captivate and inspire you.
