Iconic Definitive Stamps in US History: The Presidential Series
Among the many definitive series issued by the United States, the Presidential Series of 1938 stands out as a particularly iconic and beloved set. Known colloquially as the “Prexies,” these stamps played a significant role in American postal history and have become a favorite among collectors.
The Presidential Series: A Tribute to America’s Leaders
The Presidential Series was introduced in 1938 to commemorate the 150th anniversary of George Washington’s inauguration as the first president of the United States. This series is unique because it features portraits of all 29 presidents who had served up to that time, from Washington to Calvin Coolidge, but excluding Franklin D. Roosevelt and his immediate predecessor, Herbert Hoover, who were still living. Each denomination in the series corresponds to the sequence of the presidents, making it not only a functional set of stamps but also a visual timeline of American leadership.
In addition to the presidents, the series included other notable figures and symbols. These included Benjamin Franklin on the 1/2-cent stamp, Martha Washington on the 1½-cent stamp, and the White House on the 4½-cent stamp.
Design and Impact
The design of the Presidential Series is characterized by its clean, classical look. Each stamp features a side profile of the respective president, rendered in a dignified, sculptural style. The stamps were printed in a wide range of colors, with each denomination having its distinct hue, from the green of the 1-cent George Washington stamp to the red brown of the 10-cent John Tyler stamp.
The series was groundbreaking for its time, both in terms of design and its extensive range. It was the first definitive series in the US to include every deceased president up to that point, providing a comprehensive overview of American leadership in one set. The stamps were in use for over a decade, during a period that spanned World War II and the early years of the Cold War, making them a staple of mid-20th-century American life.
Why Collect the Presidential Series?
Collecting the Presidential Series offers several unique advantages:
- Historical Significance: The series is a tribute to America’s leaders, encapsulating over 150 years of presidential history in one collection.
- Design Variations: The series includes various printing methods, perforation types, and color shades, offering plenty of opportunities for collectors to find rare and interesting varieties.
- Cultural Impact: These stamps were in circulation during a pivotal period in American history, making them not just collectibles but also historical artifacts.
Building a Collection of Prexies
For collectors, the Presidential Series offers a rich field of study. You might begin by collecting a complete set of the basic issues, then delve deeper into the many varieties that exist. For example, some stamps in the series were printed with different perforation types, and there are known color variations that can add depth to your collection.
Another exciting aspect of collecting Prexies is exploring their usage on mail. Since these stamps were in use for so long, they appear on a wide variety of postal covers, including wartime mail, airmail, and special delivery items. Collecting covers with Prexies can provide additional historical context and enhance the storytelling aspect of your collection.
A Piece of American History
The Presidential Series of 1938 is more than just a set of definitive stamps; it’s a piece of American history. Whether you’re drawn to the series for its historical significance, its design, or the challenge of finding all its varieties, the Prexies offer a rewarding collecting experience. As you explore this iconic series, you’ll not only build a fascinating collection but also gain a deeper appreciation for the legacy of America’s leaders.
Get the Complete Series including the 1939 Rotary Cut Coils here.