This postcard has a enlarged reproduction of the first United States government stamp, issued in 1847 and depicting Benjamin Franklin. It was displayed on the introductory panel to the Hall of Philately and Postal History, Museum of History and Technology, Smithsonian Institution.
The Smithsonian's National Philatelic Collection was begun in 1886. The collection is now housed in the National Postal Museum in the historic City Post Office Building, which served as the Washington, D.C. post office from 1914 through 1986.
This 5-cent Benjamin Franklin stamp was printed with a number of variations. Information about this stamp and pictures of some of the varieties are here. More information on this stamp and Franklin's role in U. S. postal history is here. Over one hundred thirty stamps depicting Benjamin Franklin have been issued by the United States post office. Franklin was the first postmaster general of the united colonies. Earlier he had been postmaster in Philadelphia and had been appointed joint deputy postmaster for the colonies by the British.
The Smithsonian's National Philatelic Collection was begun in 1886. The collection is now housed in the National Postal Museum in the historic City Post Office Building, which served as the Washington, D.C. post office from 1914 through 1986.
This 5-cent Benjamin Franklin stamp was printed with a number of variations. Information about this stamp and pictures of some of the varieties are here. More information on this stamp and Franklin's role in U. S. postal history is here. Over one hundred thirty stamps depicting Benjamin Franklin have been issued by the United States post office. Franklin was the first postmaster general of the united colonies. Earlier he had been postmaster in Philadelphia and had been appointed joint deputy postmaster for the colonies by the British.
So interesting to find out why Franklin was chosen for the stamp. What a great connection.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Joy, very interesting to learn the connection! I am learning a lot because of stamps and postcards.
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I have seen many Franklin stamps over the years - now I know why. Thnak you for participating!
ReplyDeleteSo many stamps for the one man seems surprising until you realise why.
ReplyDeletewow! another great info that I just discovered. Thanks for sharing the video.
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I'm a huge fan of Dr. Franklin. Hadn't seen this particular stamp before! I think it's time for a new Franklin commemorative.
ReplyDeletealways great to learn some new stuff when it comes to stamps! thanks a lot for sharing! Im always hungry for new info on stamps ;)
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