US postage stamp year 1912 50¢ Washington

The image of George Washington has been a central and enduring feature of U.S. postage stamps since their inception. Here’s an overview of key aspects related to George Washington’s depiction on U.S. postage stamps:

Historical Context

• First U.S. Postage Stamps: The first U.S. postage stamps were issued in 1847. These included portraits of Benjamin Franklin on the 5-cent stamp and George Washington on the 10-cent stamp.

Key Washington Stamps

1. First Issue (1847)
   • Denomination: 10 cents
   • Design: The stamp featured an engraving of George Washington based on a painting by Gilbert Stuart.
   • Color: Black
2. 1851 Issue
   • Denominations: Multiple denominations including 3 cents and 12 cents featured Washington.
   • Design: Washington’s portrait was depicted in various frames and poses, maintaining the iconic imagery.
3. 1861 Issue (Civil War Era)
   • Denominations: Varied, with notable designs including 10 cents, 12 cents, and 24 cents.
   • Design: These stamps introduced more intricate and detailed engravings, showcasing Washington in different formats and incorporating new border designs.
4. 1894-1895 Issue (First Bureau Issue)
   • Denominations: Multiple denominations with Washington’s portrait.
   • Significance: These were the first stamps produced by the Bureau of Engraving and Printing.
5. 1908-1922 (Washington-Franklin Issues)
   • Series: A long series where both Washington and Franklin appeared on numerous denominations.
   • Design Variations: Featured side profiles, different frames, and numerous re-issues with slight design modifications.
6. 1932 Washington Bicentennial Issue
   • Occasion: Issued to commemorate the 200th anniversary of George Washington’s birth.
   • Designs: Included twelve different stamps, each depicting Washington in various stages of his life and notable events.
7. Definitive and Commemorative Issues (Modern Era)
   • Frequent Use: Washington’s image continues to appear on definitive stamps, which are regular issues intended for everyday use.
   • Design Innovations: Modern designs often include more colorful and stylized versions of Washington’s portrait.

Significance and Collectibility

• Symbol of Leadership: George Washington’s enduring presence on U.S. stamps symbolizes his pivotal role in American history as the first President and a Founding Father.
• Philatelic Value: Stamps featuring Washington are highly prized by collectors. The value can vary based on factors such as rarity, condition, and historical significance.
• Design Evolution: The evolution of Washington’s image on stamps reflects changes in printing technology and design preferences over the years.