Introduction to the 1847 U.S. Issues
The introduction of adhesive postage stamps revolutionized the postal system of the United States. On July 1, 1847, the first two official U.S. postage stamps were issued to the public, transitioning the country away from an older system where recipients paid for delivery upon arrival. These historic stamps were printed by the prominent engraving firm Rawdon, Wright, Hatch and Edson. Identifying these early issues requires a close examination of their design elements, portraits, and printing characteristics. By understanding the specific features of these two stamps, collectors can accurately identify these classic pieces of postal history.
Before these stamps were introduced, postal delivery was often unreliable because recipients could simply refuse to accept a letter to avoid paying the postage fee. Some individuals even devised clever codes on the outside of envelopes to convey messages without paying. The introduction of the 1847 stamps established a system of prepayment, forever changing how mail was handled in America.
The Five-Cent Red-Brown Benjamin Franklin
The first of the two 1847 issues is the five-cent stamp. This stamp features a portrait of Benjamin Franklin, who served as the very first U.S. postmaster general. The stamp was printed in a distinct red-brown ink. When examining a potential 1847 five-cent stamp, look closely at the central portrait of Franklin and the rich red-brown coloration. Because printing variations, ink batches, and environmental aging can affect the appearance of the ink, verifying the design details is essential.
Using a magnifying glass with at least 5x to 10x magnification can help you inspect the fine engraved lines of Franklin's portrait to confirm its design. A high-quality lens that magnifies clearly without distortion is recommended. By focusing on the fine details of the engraving, you can distinguish the genuine 1847 design from other similar portraits of Franklin issued in later years.
The Ten-Cent Black George Washington
The second stamp issued on July 1, 1847, is the ten-cent denomination. This stamp depicts George Washington, the first President of the United States. It was printed using black ink, which provides a sharp contrast to the intricate engraved background. To identify this stamp, focus on the portrait of Washington and the denomination markings. Because these stamps were produced using line engraving, the details in Washington's hair and clothing should appear sharp and distinct.
Collectors should inspect the overall design to ensure it matches the official ten-cent black issue of 1847. Over time, various reproductions and government-issued facsimiles have been produced, making a careful visual inspection of the engraving lines critical. Comparing the fine details of the portrait against a trusted reference or catalog illustration is a reliable way to confirm the stamp's identity.
The Role of the Printer Rawdon, Wright, Hatch and Edson
The high quality of the 1847 issues is due to the craftsmanship of the security printing firm Rawdon, Wright, Hatch and Edson. This firm was responsible for engraving and printing both the five-cent and ten-cent stamps. Their work is characterized by extremely fine lines, detailed shading, and precise portraiture.
When identifying these stamps, a magnifying glass that folds into a case to prevent scratches is an invaluable tool. Under magnification, the intricate cross-hatching and delicate border designs created by the printers become clearly visible. This level of detail helps to distinguish genuine early printing from later reproductions or worn copies. Examining the physical texture of the ink on the paper can also provide clues about the intaglio printing process used by this historic firm.
Safe Handling and Technical Examination
Early postage stamps from 1847 are delicate historical artifacts that require careful handling. You should always use professional stamp tongs with a smooth gripping surface to handle these stamps, as skin oils can cause permanent damage over time. Never handle dry stamps with your bare hands, regardless of how clean they may seem.
Unlike modern stamps, these early issues were not released in a single specific city on their first day of issue, meaning they can appear with a variety of regional cancellations. To verify the technical details of your stamp, consult a reputable stamp catalog. A catalog provides essential reference information, including the official issue date, printing methods, and descriptions of both used and unused conditions. This helps you cross-reference your physical stamp with documented philatelic records.
Storing and Documenting Your 1847 Stamps
Once you have analyzed your stamp, preserving its condition is the next priority. Store your classic stamps in a dedicated stamp album or a stock book with protective pockets. When mounting these stamps in an album, always use clear plastic mounts or specialized stamp hinges. Never use household tape or glue, as these adhesives will severely damage the paper and decrease the stamp's value.
To keep a secure digital inventory of your collection, you can use the StampSnap app to create a likely identification and log your historical stamps for future reference. Documenting your stamps digitally allows you to track your collection safely without subjecting the physical stamps to unnecessary handling.
Frequently asked questions
Who printed the first U.S. postage stamps?
The first two U.S. postage stamps, issued on July 1, 1847, were printed by the engraving firm Rawdon, Wright, Hatch and Edson.
Which historical figures are depicted on the 1847 U.S. stamps?
The five-cent red-brown stamp depicts Benjamin Franklin, the first U.S. postmaster general, while the ten-cent black stamp depicts George Washington, the first U.S. president.
Were the 1847 U.S. stamps issued in a specific city?
No, at the time of their release on July 1, 1847, U.S. stamps were not issued in a specific city on the first day of release.
How should I handle and store these early U.S. stamps?
Always handle these delicate stamps using professional stamp tongs to prevent skin oil damage. Store them in a stamp album or stock book using clear plastic mounts or stamp hinges, and never use tape or glue.