$20,000.00
Awarded the Single Frame Grand at NAPEX 2024
Most stamp collectors are under the impression that Black/African-American imagery on US stamps originated with the Booker T. Washington postage stamp of 1940. However, the first such portrayals are found on taxpaid tobacco stamps issued some 76 years earlier. This exhibit showcases all known examples of these early stamps, including the 1864 cigar stamps (inspectors stamps), the various 1868 tobacco stamps reflecting Black portraiture including rare essays and proofs, the largest known multiple of TF2 (1/2 ounce tobacco stamp), the unique Trial Color Essay of the 5 pound tobacco stamp in dark dusky blue, one of only 4 known copies of a Continental Bank Note Co. tobacco wrapper, and much more.
Synopsis and complete details available upon request via the Info & Contact link above.