1900–1949 US Stamp Sets & Series

Identification Guide to Farley’s Follies Stamps

It can be a bit of a challenge to understand the small differences between Farley’s Follies stamps. That’s why we’ve put together this handy identification guide, so you know exactly what to expect from the different varieties. This list of Scott numbers include stamps that were pre-cut to souvenir sheet size before being distributed to … Read more

Series of 1902-03

This series is an extreme example of officials deliberately using postage stamps as learning tools. Included within the ornate frames of each stamp are symbols relating to the honored American’s legacy, along with biographical information about him or her. These design details were added to help new immigrants learn American history easily – an important lesson carried … Read more

American Revolution Sesquicentennial

In 1925, the U.S. celebrated the 150th anniversary of its independence with a stamp series known as the American Revolution Sesquicentennial. U.S. #617 pictures General George Washington leading colonial forces at Cambridge Common on July 2, 1775. This was two-and-a-half months after the battles at Lexington and Concord. A driving factor for this scene’s inclusion in the set … Read more

Civil War Centennial

This series features five stamps – one for each year of the Civil War – to commemorate its 100th anniversary. When South Carolina seceded from the Union in 1860, plans were made quickly to seize the U.S. forts in the Harbor at Charleston, S.C. – Fort Moultrie and Fort Sumter. The forts were under the command … Read more

Olympic Games

A new stamp series was unveiled in 1932, designed as a “spotlight on the sports, athletes, and host cities that carry the torch for global unity.” Olympic Games stamps quickly became collector favorites. The 1932 2¢ Winter Olympic Games stamp is the first U.S. stamp issued to commemorate the international competition. Voters chose U.S. #716 as … Read more

Famous Americans Series

In 1938, the Post Office Department announced plans for a series of stamps recognizing 10 famous Americans and invited the public to submit recommendations. The response was so great that it was decided to increase the number from 10 to 35. This required an unexpected level of organization by the Post Office Department for this series. Seven … Read more

1938 Presidential Series

Known affectionately as the “Prexies,” the 1938 Presidential series is a favorite among stamp collectors. The series was issued in response to public clamoring for a new Regular Issue series. The series that was current at the time had been in use for more than a decade. President Franklin D. Roosevelt agreed, and a contest was staged. The … Read more

1936-37 Army-Navy War Heroes

The Army-Navy War Heroes series honors the brave men who led our armed forces and made the U.S. a world superpower.

1934 National Parks Issue

As a stamp collector, President Franklin D. Roosevelt personally oversaw the selection of stamp subjects and designs during his administration.