United States Stamp year 1869 2 cent Pony-Express

The 2-cent Pony Express stamp from the United States 1869 Pictorial Issue is a notable collectible. Although it is not directly related to the historic Pony Express (which operated from 1860 to 1861), it was a commemorative design that featured a rider on horseback, evoking the romantic imagery of the service.

Key Features of the 1869 2-Cent Stamp:

1. Design:
   • Depicts a Pony Express rider galloping on horseback.
   • Engraved by the National Bank Note Company.
2. Color:
   • Brown frame with a black vignette (center design).
   • The two-tone printing process was groundbreaking for the time.
3. Perforations:
   • Perforation gauge 12.
4. Printing Method:
   • Printed using a two-color process, which made these stamps prone to misalignment errors, increasing their collectibility.
5. Purpose:
   • The 2-cent denomination was intended for local mail and printed circular rates.

Historical Context:

• Part of the 1869 Pictorial Issue, the first U.S. stamps to include images other than portraits of national leaders.
• The series was initially unpopular due to its innovative designs but is now highly sought after by collectors.