Designs of the 1980 Series - The Great Americans

Engraved and printed by the Bureau of Engraving and Printing, the Great American Series presents many collecting challenges with perforation, tagging, color, paper type and marginal marking varieties. Most of the stamps listed here are known with tagging break varieties. Identification of perforation varieties can be a little complicated. To help with the nomenclature of these perforations, a table of modern perforation types and their characteristics is included (this opens in a separate window).


1¢ Dorothea Dix
Black

Designer: Bernie Fuchs     Modeler: Clarence Holbert
Vignette: G. M. Chaconas     Lettering: Dennis Brown

Issue Date   Usage
USPS Souvenir Page: SP503
Number Type   Print Method   Plate Nos.
100 stamps per pane
Perforation Tagging Collectible Varieties & Selvage Markings
Image Size: 19.05 x 22.09 mm
Issued 9/23/1983 in 
Hampden, Maine
The issue ceremony was at the Hampden Academy.  This stamp, the 13th in the Series, replaced the 1¢
Americana
stamp.
1844 tagged sheet stamp; intaglio A press; 
floating plate no. 1
11.2 x 11.1 (bulls-eye) small block PB(6); PB(20); 
 UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE 1983
USE CORRECT ZIP CODE ; 
1844a imperforate pair none ---- ---
1844b vert. pair imperf. between & at bottom 11.2 x 11.1 --- ---
1844c tagged sheet stamp; intaglio A press; 
floating  plate nos. 1 and 2
10.8 x 10.9 (line) small block PB(6); PB( 20); 
 UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE 1983;  
USE CORRECT ZIP CODE  
1844d- tagged sheet stamp; intaglio A press;  
floating plate nos. 1 and 2
10.8 x 10.9 (line) large block
1844e vertical pair imperforate horizontal --- --- ---


1¢ Margaret Mitchell
brownish vermilion

Designer: Ron Adair     Modeler: Frank J. Waslick
Vignette: Gary Chaconas     Lettering: Gary J. Slaght

Issue Date   Usage
Souvenir Page: SP711
Number Type   Print Method   Plate Nos.
100 stamps per pane
Perforation Tagging Collectible Varieties & Selvage Markings
Image Size: 18.03 x 20.83 mm
Issued 6/30/1986 at the 
Omni International in
Atlanta, Georgia

This stamp, the 31st in the Series, replaced the 1¢ Dorothea Dix stamp.
2168 tagged sheet stamp;  intaglio A press; 
plate no. 1 (4-positions)
11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
large block plate # block of 4; ZIP block of 4; 
 UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE 1986;  
USE CORRECT ZIP CODE  
2168a tagging omitted 11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
none ---


2¢ Igor Stravinsky
brown

Designer: Burt Silverman (NYC)
Modeler: Clarence Holbert

Issue Date   Usage
Souvenir Page: SP504
Number Type   Print Method   Plate Nos.
100 stamps per pane
Perforation Tagging Collectible Varieties & Selvage Markings
Image Size: 19.05 x 22.09 mm
Issued 11/18/1982 in
New York, New York  
The issue ceremony was at the New York State Theater at the Lincoln Center, NYC.


This stamp, the 8th in the Series, replaced the 2¢
Americana
stamp. 
1845 tagged sheet stamp; 
intaglio Cottrell press; 
plate nos. 1-6
11.2 x 10.5
electric eye
overall plate # block of 4; ZIP block of 4;
UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE 1982  ;  
 USE CORRECT ZIP CODE; 
vertical pair, full gutter between
1845a tagging omitted (error stamp)
plate nos. 1-4
11.2 x 10.5
electric eye
none ---


2¢ Mary Lyon
bright blue

Designer: Ron Adair (TX)
Modeler: Clarence Holbert

Issue Date   Usage
Souvenir Page: SP712
Number Type   Print Method   Plate Nos.
100 stamps per pane
Perforation Tagging Collectible Varieties & Selvage Markings
Image Size: 18.03 x 20.83 mm
Issued 2/28/1987 at the 
Chapin Auditorium in
South Hadley, MA

This stamp, the 37th in the Series, replaced the 2¢
Stravinsky stamp.
2169 tagged sheet stamp;  intaglio A press; 
plate nos. 1, 2 (4-positions)
11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
large block untagged area under chin; 
plate # block of 4, ZIP block of 4; 
 UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE 1984;  
USE CORRECT ZIP CODE  
2169a  intentionally untagged; sheet stamp; intaglio C press; plate no. 3 11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
none plate # block of 4, ZIP block of 4
2169b tagging omitted (error stamp);
plate no. 1
11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
none untagged error, should be collected as a setenant pair, one tagged and one untagged, 
unless from plate no. 1


3¢ Henry Clay
olive green

Designer: Ward Brackett (CT)     Modeler: Clarence Holbert
Vignette: J. S. Creamer, Jr.     Lettering: Gary J. Slaght

Issue Date   Usage
Souvenir Page: SP505
Number Type   Print Method   Plate Nos.
100 stamps per pane
Perforation Tagging Collectible Varieties & Selvage Markings
Image Size: 19.05 x 22.09 mm
Issued 7/13/1983 in
Washington, DC
The issue ceremony was 
in the Old Senate Chamber of the U. S. Capitol. 

This stamp, the 12th in the Series, replaced the 3¢
Americana
stamp. 
1846 tagged sheet stamp; 
intaglio Cottrell press; 
plate nos. 1 and 2
11.2 x 10.5
electric eye
overall  plate # block of 4, ZIP block of 4;
 UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE 1983; 
USE CORRECT ZIP CODE
1846a tagging omitted (error stamp)
plate 1 only
11.2 x 10.5
electric eye
none known on both dead and high-brite papers


3¢ Paul Dudley White MD
bright blue

Designer: Christopher Calle (CT)     Modeler: Clarence Holbert
Vignette: J. S. Creamer, Jr.     Lettering: Robert Culin, Sr.  

Issue Date   Usage
Souvenir Page: SP713
Number Type   Print Method   Plate Nos.
100 stamps per pane
Perforation Tagging Collectible Varieties & Selvage Markings
Image Size: 18.03 x 20.83 mm
Issued 9/15/1986 at the Washington Convention Center in Washington, DC

This stamp, the 34th in the Series, replaced the 3¢
Henry Clay stamp.
2170 tagged sheet stamp;  intaglio A press; 
plate nos. 1, 2, 3 (4-positions)
11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
large block
dull gum
plate # block of 4, ZIP block of 4; 
 UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE 1986;  
USE CORRECT ZIP CODE  
2170a intentionally untagged; sheet stamp; intaglio C press; plate no. 4 11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
none
dull and shiny gum
plate # block of 4, ZIP block of 4; known on both dead and high-brite papers
2170b tagging omitted (error stamp);
plate nos. 2, 3
11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
none untagged error, should be collected as a setenant pair, one tagged and one untagged, 
unless from plate no. 2 or 3


4¢ Carl Schurz
purple

Designer: Richard Sparks (CT)     Modeler: Esther Porter
Vignette: T. R. Hipschen     Lettering: Gary J. Slaght

Issue Date   Usage
Souvenir Page: SP506
Number Type   Print Method   Plate Nos.
100 stamps per pane
Perforation Tagging Collectible Varieties & Selvage Markings
Image Size: not listed
Issued 6/3/1983 in
Watertown, WI

This stamp, the 9th in the Series, replaced the 4¢
Americana
stamp. 
1847 tagged sheet stamp; 
intaglio Cottrell press; 
plate nos. 1-4
11.2 x 10.5
electric eye
overall plate # block of 4, ZIP block of 4;
 UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE 1983;  
USE CORRECT ZIP CODE
1847a tagging omitted (error stamp)
plates 1-3
11.2 x 10.5
electric eye
none ---


4¢ Father Flanagan
blue violet

Designer: Christopher Calle (CT)     Modeler: Clarence Holbert
Vignette: T. R. Hipschen     Lettering: Michael J. Ryan

Issue Date   Usage
Souvenir Page: SP714
number Type   Print Method   Plate Nos.
100 stamps per pane
Perforation Tagging Collectible Varieties & Selvage Markings
Image Size: 18.03 x 20.83 mm
Issued 7/14/1986 
in the high school 
dining hall on 
Father Flanagan Drive in
Boys Town, Nebraska

This stamp, the 32nd in 
the Series, replaced the 
4¢ Carl Schurz stamp.
2171 tagged sheet stamp;  intaglio A press; 
plate no. 1 (4-positions)
11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
large block plate # block of 4,  ZIP block of 4;
 UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE 1986;  
USE CORRECT ZIP CODE  
2171c tagging omitted error
sheet stamp;  intaglio A press; 
plate no. 1 (4-positions)
11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
large block
2171b intentionally untagged; grayish violet;
A press plate no.1 
C press; plate no. 2
11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
none  plate # block of 4, ZIP block of 4
2171a (1993) intentionally untagged; 
deep grayish blue; whiter paper
C press; plate no. 2
11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
none plate # block of 4, ZIP block of 4 
2171d albino impression - all color omitted 11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
none setenant w/ partially or fully colored stamp(s)


5¢ Pearl Buck
brown (henna)

Designer: Paul Calle     Modeler: Clarence Holbert
Vignette: T. R. Hipschen     Lettering: Gary J. Slaght

Issue Date   Usage
Souvenir Page: SP507
Number Type   Print Method   Plate Nos.
100 stamps per pane
Perforation Tagging Collectible Varieties & Selvage Markings
Image Size: 19.05 x 22.09 mm
6/25/1983 at McNeel Gymnasium in the Hillsboro Elementary-Middle School in Hillsboro, West Virginia

This stamp was the 11th in the Great American Series.
1848 tagged sheet stamp; 
intaglio Cottrell press; 
plate nos. 1-4
11.2 x 10.5
electric eye
overall plate # block of 4;  ZIP block of 4;
UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE 1983 ; 
  USE CORRECT ZIP CODE


5¢ Hugo L. Black
dark olive green

Designer: Christopher Calle
Vignette: Kenneth Kipperman     Lettering: Robert G. Culin, Sr.

Issue Date   Usage
Souvenir Page: SP715
Number Type   Print Method   Plate Nos.
100 stamps per pane
Perforation Tagging Collectible Varieties & Selvage Markings
Image Size: 18.03 x 20.83 mm
2/27/1986 at the United States Supreme Court in
Washington, DC

This stamp, the 28th in 
the Series, replaced the 
5¢ Pearl Buck stamp.
2172 tagged sheet stamp;  intaglio A press; 
plate nos. 1, 2 (4-positions)
11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
large block plate # block of 4, ZIP block of 4;
 UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE 1986;  
USE CORRECT ZIP CODE  
2172a tagging omitted (error stamp) 11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
none ---


5¢ Luis Munoz Marin
carmine

Designer: Juan Maldonado
Vignette: Gary Chaconas    Lettering: Gary J. Slaght

Issue Date   Usage
Souvenir Page: SP716
Number Type   Print Method   Plate Nos.
100 stamps per pane
Perforation Tagging Collectible Varieties & Selvage Markings
Image Size: 18.03 x 20.83 mm
2/18/1990
San Juan, PR

This stamp, the 47th in 
the Series, replaced the 
5¢ Hugo Black stamp.
2173 tagged sheet stamp; intaglio C press; plate no. 1 11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
dull gum
overall  plate # block of 4, ZIP block of 4;
 UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE 1990; 
USE CORRECT ZIP CODE ; 
Descriptive Selvage: 
stamp1: Luis Munoz Marin (1898-1980)
stamp 2: First Elected Governor of Puerto Rico, 1948
stamp 3: Founder of the Puerto Rico Commonwealth
2173a intentionally untagged sheet stamp; intaglio C press; plate no. 2 11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
dull gum
none
2173b tagging omitted (error stamp); should be collected as a setenant pair, one tagged and one untagged, or with plate no. 1  11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
none ---


6¢ Walter Lippmann
orange (vermilion)

Designer: Dennis Lyall (CT)    Modeler: Clarence Holbert
Vignette: T. R. Hipschen    Lettering: Robert G. Culin, Sr.

Issue Date   Usage
Souvenir Page: SP508
Number Type   Print Method   Plate Nos.
100 stamps per pane
Perforation Tagging Collectible Varieties & Selvage Markings
Image Size: 18.03 x 20.83 mm
9/19/1985 at the Hyatt Regency during the National Newspaper Convention's 100th anniversary in Minneapolis, Minnesota

This stamp, the 26th in the Series, did not meet any existing rate requirement  but could be used to makeup the rate  with another stamp.
1849 tagged sheet stamp; intaglio; 
floating plate no. 1
10.8 x 10.9 (L-perf) large block plate # block of 6; 
plate # block of 20 with either 1 or 2 plate numbers and selvage markings; 
 UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE 1985;  
USE CORRECT ZIP CODE
1849a vertical pair, imperforate between 
and at bottom 
10.8 x 10.9 (L-perf) large block ---


7¢ Abraham Baldwin
bright carmine

Designer: Richard Sparks (CT)         Modeler: Esther Porter
Vignette: Kenneth Kipperman         Lettering: Dennis Brown  

Issue Date   Usage
Souvenir Page: SP509
Number Type   Print Method   Plate Nos.
100 stamps per pane
Perforation Tagging Collectible Varieties & Selvage Markings
Image Size: 18.03 x 20.83 mm
Issued 1/25/85 at the University of Georgia in Athens, Georgia

This stamp, the 18th in the Series, did not meet any existing rate requirement  but could be used to makeup the rate  with another stamp.
1850 tagged sheet stamp; 
intaglio A press; 
floating plate no. 1
10.8 x 10.9 (L-perf) small block plate # block of 6; 
plate # block of 20 with either 1 or 2 
plate numbers and selvage markings

 UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE 1985;  
USE CORRECT ZIP CODE


8¢ General Henry Knox
olive

Designer: Arthur Lidov (NY)     Modeler: Ronald C. Sharpe
Vignette: John S. Wallace      Lettering: Gary J. Slaght

Issue Date   Usage
Souvenir Page: SP510
Number Type   Print Method   Plate Nos.
100 stamps per pane
Perforation Tagging Collectible Varieties & Selvage Markings
Image Size: 18.03 x 20.83 mm
7/251985 at the Georges Valley H. S. Auditorium in Thomaston, Maine

This stamp, the 25th in the Series, did not meet any existing rate requirement  but could be used to makeup the rate  with another stamp.
1851 tagged sheet stamp; 
intaglio I-8 press; 
floating plate nos. 3-6
10.8 x 10.9 (L-perf) overall plate # block of 4, ZIP block of 4
 
 UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE 1985;  
USE CORRECT ZIP CODE
1851a tagging omitted (error stamp)
plate no. 6
10.8 x 10.9 (L-perf) none ---


9¢ Sylvanus Thayer
green (dark)

Designer: Robert Anderson (MA)     Modeler: Clarence Holbert
Vignette: Kenneth Kipperman     Lettering: Stanley Scantlin

Issue Date   Usage
Souvenir Page: SP511
Number Type   Print Method   Plate Nos.
100 stamps per pane
Perforation Tagging Collectible Varieties & Selvage Markings
Image Size: 18.03 x 20.83 mm
Issued 6/7/1985 at Frothingham Hall at the Thayer Academy in Braintree, Massachusetts

This stamp, the 24th in the Series, did not meet any existing rate requirement  but could be used to makeup the rate  with another stamp
1852 tagged sheet stamp; 
intaglio A press; 
floating plate no. 1
10.8 x 10.9 (L-perf) small block plate # block of 6; 
plate # block of 20 with either 1 or 2 
plate numbers and selvage markings

 UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE 1985;  
USE CORRECT ZIP CODE


10¢ Richard Russell
Prussian blue

Designer: Richard Sparks (CT)      Modeler: Ronald Sharpe
Vignette: Kenneth Kipperman      Lettering: Thomas J. Bakos

Issue Date   Usage
Souvenir Page: SP512
Number Type   Print Method   Plate Nos.
100 stamps per pane
Perforation Tagging Collectible Varieties & Selvage Markings
Image Size: 18.03 x 20.83 mm
Issued 5/31/84 at 
Fort Yargo State Park in Winder, Georgia

This stamp, the 16th in the Series, replaced the 10¢
Americana
stamp 
1853 tagged sheet stamp; intaglio A press; 
floating plate no. 1
10.8 x 10.9 (L-perf) small block plate # block of 6; 
plate # block of 20 with either 1 or 2 
plate numbers and selvage markings

 UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE 1984;  
USE CORRECT ZIP CODE
1853a tagged sheet stamp; intaglio A press; 
floating plate no. 1
10.8 x 10.9 (L-perf) large block
1853b vertical pair, imperforate between  10.8 x 10.9  --- ---
1853c horizontal pair, imperforate between  10.8 x 10.9  --- ---
1853d vertical pair, imperforate horizontally 10.8 x 10.9  --- ---


10¢ Red Cloud
Lake

Designer: R. Anderson (MA)     Modeler: Clarence Holbert
Vignette: J. S. Creamer, Jr.     Lettering: Robert Culin, Sr.

Issue Date   Usage
Souvenir Page: SP717
Number Type   Print Method   Plate Nos.
100 stamps per pane
Perforation Tagging Collectible Varieties & Selvage Markings
Image Size: 18.03 x 20.83 mm
Issued 8/15/1987 at the Red Cloud Community School in Red Cloud, Nebraska

This stamp, the 38th in 
the Series, replaced the 
10¢ Russell stamp
2175 tagged sheet stamp;  intaglio A press; 
plate no. 1 (4-positions)
11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
large block,
dull gum
plate # block of 4,  ZIP block of 4;
 UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE 1987;  
USE CORRECT ZIP CODE  
2175a A press plate #1; C press plate #2 11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
overall dull gum; plate # block of 4,  ZIP block of 4
2175b tagging omitted none ---
2175c C press PL #2; bulls-eye perfs; dull gum; uniform pre-phosphored, solid tagging plate # block of 4,  ZIP block of 4
2175d C press PL #2; bulls-eye perfs; shiny gum; mottled pre-phosphored tagging plate # block of 4,  ZIP block of 4
2175e carmine; C press #2; bulls-eye; shiny gum; mottled pre-phosphored tagging plate # block of 4,  ZIP block of 4
2175f all color omitted 11.2 x 11.1 --- ---


11¢ Alden Partridge
dark blue

Designer: Robert Anderson (MA)     Modeler: Ronald Sharpe
Vignette: John S. Wallace     Lettering: Robert Culin, Sr.

Issue Date   Usage
Souvenir Page: SP513
Number Type   Print Method   Plate Nos.
100 stamps per pane
Perforation Tagging Collectible Varieties & Selvage Markings
Image Size: 18.03 x 20.83 mm
Issued 2/12/1985 in 
Northfield, Vermont

This stamp, the 19th in the Great American Series, replaced the 
11¢ Americana
stamp
1854 tagged sheet stamp; 
intaglio I-8 press; 
plate nos. 2-5
10.8 x 10.9 (L-perf) overall plate # block of 4, ZIP block of 4
 
 UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE 1984;  
USE CORRECT ZIP CODE
1854a tagging omitted (error stamp) 10.8 x 10.9 (L-perf) none ---


13¢ Chief Crazy Horse
maroon

Designer: Brad Holland (NY)     Modeler: Ronald Sharpe
Vignette: John Wallace      Lettering: Thomas Bakos

Issue Date   Usage
Souvenir Page: SP514
Number Type   Print Method   Plate Nos.
100 stamps per pane
Perforation Tagging Collectible Varieties & Selvage Markings
Image Size: 19.05 x 22.09 mm
Issued 1/15/1982 in 
Crazy Horse, South Dakota

This stamp, the 6th in the Great American Series, paid the new rate for postcards, effective 11/1/1981
1855 tagged sheet stamp; 
intaglio Cottrell press; 
plate nos. 1-4
11.2 x 10.5
electric eye
overall plate # block of 4;  ZIP block of 4

UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE 1981 ;  
 USE CORRECT ZIP CODE
1855a tagging omitted (error stamp)
plate nos. 1-2
11.2 x 10.5
electric eye
none ---


14¢ Sinclair Lewis
slate green

Designer: Bradbury Thompson
Vignette: Thomas Hipschen     Lettering: Stanley Scantlin

Issue Date   Usage
Souvenir Page: SP515
Number Type   Print Method   Plate Nos.
100 stamps per pane
Perforation Tagging Collectible Varieties & Selvage Markings
Image Size: 18.03 x 20.83 mm
Issued 3/21/1985 in 
Sauk Centre, Minnesota

This stamp was the 22nd in the Great American Series.
1856 tagged sheet stamp; intaglio A press; 
floating plate no. 1
10.8 x 10.9 (L-perf) small block plate # block of 6; 
plate # block of 20 with either 1 or 2 
plate numbers and selvage markings

 UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE 1985;  
USE CORRECT ZIP CODE
1856a tagged sheet stamp; intaglio A press; 
floating plate no. 1
10.8 x 10.9 (L-perf) large block
1856b vertical pair, imperforate horizontally --- --- ---
1856c horizontal pair, imperforate between  --- --- ---
1856d vertical pair, imperforate between  --- --- ---
1856e all color omitted 10.8 x 10.9 --- ---


14¢ Julia Ward Howe
crimson

Designer: W. Brackett (CT)      Modeler: V. J. Ruther
Vignette: J. S. Creamer     Lettering: R. Culin & J. L. Goodbody

Issue Date   Usage
Souvenir Page: SP718
Number Type   Print Method   Plate Nos.
100 stamps per pane
Perforation Tagging Collectible Varieties & Selvage Markings
Image Size: 18.03 x 20.83 mm
Issued 2/12/1987 in 
Boston, Massachusetts


This stamp, the 36th in the Great American Series, replaced the 14¢ 
Sinclair Lewis stamp
2176 tagged sheet stamp;  intaglio A press; 
plate nos. 1, 2 (4-positions)
11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
large block plate # block of 4,  ZIP block of 4

 UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE 1987;  
USE CORRECT ZIP CODE  
2176a tagging omitted (error stamp) 11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
none ---


15¢ Buffalo Bill Cody
claret

Designer: Jack Rosenthal (WY)
Vignette: Thomas Hipschen     Lettering: Michael J. Ryan

Issue Date   Usage
Souvenir Page: SP719
Number Type   Print Method   Plate Nos.
100 stamps per pane
Perforation Tagging Collectible Varieties & Selvage Markings
Image Size: 18.03 x 20.83 mm
Issued 6/6/1988 in 
Cody, Wyoming
The dedication ceremony was held in the Buffalo Bill Historical Center.

This stamp, the 40th in the Great American Series, replaced the 15¢
Americana
flag stamp.
2177 tagged sheet stamp;  intaglio A press; 
plate nos. 1, 3 (4-positions)
11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
large block plate # block of 4,  ZIP block of 4

 UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE 1988;  
USE CORRECT ZIP CODE  
2177a (1990) A press plate #3; 
D press plate #2
11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
overall
2177b A press (4-position) prephosphored
coated paper 
11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
solid
2177c tagging omitted (error stamp) 11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
none ---
2177d all color omitted - setenant with other partially or completely colored stamps 11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
--- ---


17¢ Rachel Carson
green

Designer: Ward Brackett (CT)      Modeler: V. Jack Ruther
Vignette: Kenneth Kipperman     Lettering: Albert Saavedra

Issue Date   Usage
Souvenir Page: SP516
Number Type   Print Method   Plate Nos.
100 stamps per pane
Perforation Tagging Collectible Varieties & Selvage Markings
Image Size: 19.05 x 22.09 mm
Issued 5/28/1981 in
Springdale, Pennsylvania

This stamp, the 3rd in the Great American Series, paid the new First-Class rate for the second ounce of mail.
1857 tagged sheet stamp; 
intaglio Cottrell press; 
plate nos. 1-4 and 13-16
11.2 x 10.5
electric eye
overall plate # block of 4, ZIP block of 4

 UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE ;  
 USE CORRECT ZIP CODE; 
 Mr. ZIP
1857a tagging omitted (error stamp)
plate nos. 1, 3, 4, 13, 14
11.2 x 10.5
electric eye
none


17¢ Belva A. Lockwood
dull blue green

Designer: Christopher Calle     Modeler: Frank Waslick
Vignette: J. S. Creamer     Lettering: Dennis Brown

Issue Date   Usage
Souvenir Page: SP720
Number Type   Print Method   Plate Nos.
100 stamps per pane
Perforation Tagging Collectible Varieties & Selvage Markings
Image Size: 18.03 x 20.83 mm
Issued 6/18/1986 in Middleport, New York

This stamp, the 30th in the Great American Series
2178 tagged sheet stamp;  intaglio A press; 
plate nos. 1, 2 (4-positions)
11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
large block plate # block of 4,  ZIP block of 4;
pair with horizontal gutter between 

 UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE 1986;  
USE CORRECT ZIP CODE ;
2178a tagging omitted (error stamp) 11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
none ---


18¢ George Mason
dark blue

Designer: Richard Sparks (CT)     Modeler: Ronald Sharpe
Vignette: Gary M. Chaconas     Lettering: James L. Goodbody

Issue Date   Usage
Souvenir Page: SP517
Number Type   Print Method   Plate Nos.
100 stamps per pane
Perforation Tagging Collectible Varieties & Selvage Markings
Image Size: 19.05 x 22.09 mm
Issued 5/7/1981 at 
Gunston Hall, Virginia

This stamp, the 2nd in the Great American Series, replaced the 18¢
Americana
stamp 
1858 tagged sheet stamp; 
intaglio Cottrell press; 
plate nos. 1-6 type I paper;
plate nos. 3 and 4 type II paper
11.2 x 10.5
electric eye
overall pair with full horizontal gutter 
between on the tagged stamp; 
plate # block of 4, ZIP block of 4

 UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE ;  
 USE CORRECT ZIP CODE; 
 Mr. ZIP
1858a tagging omitted (error stamp) 11.2 x 10.5
electric eye
none


19¢ Sequoyah
brown

Designer: Roy Anderson (CT)     Modeler: Jack Ruther
Vignette: John Wallace     Lettering: Albert Saavedra

Issue Date   Usage
Souvenir Page: SP518
Number Type   Print Method   Plate Nos.
100 stamps per pane
Perforation Tagging Collectible Varieties & Selvage Markings
Image Size: 19.05 x 22.09 mm
Issued 12/27/1980 at the
Cherokee Heritage Center in Tahlequah, Oklahoma

This stamp, the 1st in the Great American Series, 
paid the new international rate for post cards, 
effective 1/1/1981 
1859 tagged sheet stamp; 
intaglio Cottrell press; 
plate nos. 39529, 39530 - 
note: this was the only 
Great American Series stamp 
that still used the 
5-digit plate number;
paper type I
11.2 x 10.5
electric eye
overall plate # block of 4, ZIP block of 4

 UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE ;  
 USE CORRECT ZIP CODE; 
 Mr. ZIP


20¢ Ralph Bunche
maroon (claret)

Designer: Jim Sharpe     Modeler: Clarence Holbert
Vignette: Kenneth Kipperman     Lettering: Gary J. Slaght

Issue Date   Usage
Souvenir Page: SP519
Number Type   Print Method   Plate Nos.
100 stamps per pane
Perforation Tagging Collectible Varieties & Selvage Markings
Image Size: 19.05 x 22.09 mm
Issued 1/12/1982 at the United Nations in New York City, New York

This stamp, the 5th in the Great American Series, was the first of the four 20¢ stamps in the series
1860 tagged sheet stamp; 
intaglio Cottrell press; 
plate nos. 1-8, 10, 11, 13
11.2 x 10.5
electric eye
overall plate # block of 4, ZIP block of 4

  UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE 1981; 
USE CORRECT ZIP CODE
1860a tagging omitted (error stamp)
plate nos. 2, 3, 7
11.2 x 10.5
electric eye
none ---


20¢ Thomas H. Gallaudet
green

Designer: Dennis Lyall (CT)     Modeler: Clarence Holbert
Vignette: Gary M. Chaconas      Lettering: Gary J. Slaght

Issue Date   Usage
Souvenir Page: SP520
Number Type   Print Method   Plate Nos.
100 stamps per pane
Perforation Tagging Collectible Varieties & Selvage Markings
Image Size: 19.05 x 22.09 mm
Issued 6/10/1983 in 
West Hartford, Connecticut

This stamp, the 10th in the Great American Series, replaced the 20¢ Bunche
1861 tagged sheet stamp; 
intaglio Cottrell press; 
plate nos. 1, 2, 5, 6, 8, 9
11.2 x 10.5
electric eye
overall plate # block of 4, ZIP block of 4

UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE 1983 ; 
 USE CORRECT ZIP CODE
1861a tagging omitted (error stamp) 11.2 x 10.5
electric eye
none ---


20¢ Harry S. Truman
Black

Designer: Christopher Calle (CT)     Modeler: Ronald Sharpe
Vignette: Thomas R. Hipschen     Lettering: Robert Culin, Sr.

Issue Date   Usage
Souvenir Page: SP521
Number Type   Print Method   Plate Nos.
100 stamps per pane
Perforation Tagging Collectible Varieties & Selvage Markings
Image Size: 18.03 x 20.83 mm
Issued 1/26/1984 in  Washington, D. C.

This stamp, the 14th in the Great American Series, replaced the 20¢ Gallaudet
1862 tagged sheet stamp; intaglio A press; 
floating plate no. 1
10.8 x 10.9 (L-perf) small block;
dull gum
plate # block of 6; plate # block of 20 with either 1 or 2 plate numbers & selvage markings; 
 UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE 1983;  
USE CORRECT ZIP CODE
1862a tagged sheet stamp;  intaglio A press; 
plate no. 2 (4-positions)
11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
large block;
dull gum
plate # block of 4, ZIP block of 4 

 UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE 1983;  
USE CORRECT ZIP CODE
1862b tagged sheet stamp;  intaglio A press; 
plate no. 3 (4-positions)
11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
overall
1862d sheet; intaglio C press; plate no. 4 11.2 x 11.1 mottled
1862c tagging omitted (error stamp) 11.2 x 11.1 none ---


20¢ Virginia Apgar
red brown

Printed by the Banknote Corporation of America
Designer: Robert Anderson (MA)     Modeler: Ron Centra

Issue Date   Usage
Souvenir Page: SP721
Number Type   Print Method   Plate Nos.
100 stamps per pane
Perforation Tagging Collectible Varieties & Selvage Markings
Image Size: 18.03 x 20.83 mm
Issued 10/24/1994 in Dallas, Texas

This stamp, the 54th in the Great American Series, replaced the 20¢ Truman.
2179 tagged sheet stamp; T/A press; 
plate nos. B1, B2, B3
11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
solid grainy;
uniform pre-
phosphored

 

plate # block of 4; 

 UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE 1993;
plate position diagram; price
2179a orange brown; tagged sheet stamp; 
T/A press; plate no. B2
11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
2179b bright red brown; tagged sheet stamp; 
T/A press
11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)


21¢ Chester Carlson
blue violet

Designer: Susan Sanford (DC)
Vignette: Gary Chaconas     Lettering: John Masure

Issue Date   Usage
Souvenir Page: SP722
Number Type   Print Method   Plate Nos.
100 stamps per pane
Perforation Tagging Collectible Varieties & Selvage Markings
Image Size: 18.03 x 20.83 mm
Issued 10/21/1988 in Rochester, New York

This stamp, the 42nd in 
the Great American 
Series, paid the rate for 
post cards mailed from 
the U.S. to Canada.
2180 tagged sheet stamp;  intaglio A press; 
plate no. 1 (4-positions)
11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
large block plate # block of 4, ZIP block of 4;
 
 UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE 1988;  
USE CORRECT ZIP CODE
2180a tagging omitted (error stamp) 11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
none ---


22¢ John J. Audubon
dark chalky blue

Designer: Christopher Calle (CT)     Modeler: Jack Ruther
Vignette: Thomas Hipschen      Lettering: Gary Slaght

Issue Date   Usage
Souvenir Page: SP522
Number Type   Print Method   Plate Nos.
100 stamps per pane
Perforation Tagging Collectible Varieties & Selvage Markings
Image Size: 18.03 x 20.83 mm
Issued 4/23/1985 at the New York Historical Society in New York City

This stamp was the 23rd in the Great American Series.
1863 tagged sheet stamp;  intaglio A press; 
floating plate no. 1
10.8 x 10.9 (L-perf) small block plate # block of 6;  plate # block of 20 with either 1 or 2 plate numbers & selvage markings; 
 UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE 1985;  
USE CORRECT ZIP CODE
1863a tagged sheet stamp;  intaglio A press; 
floating plate no. 1
10.8 x 10.9 (L-perf) large block
1863b tagged sheet stamp;  intaglio A press; 
plate no. 3 (4-positions)
11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
large block plate # block of 4, ZIP block of 4; 
 UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE 1985; 
USE CORRECT ZIP CODE
1863c tagging omitted (error stamp) --- none ---
1863d vertical pair, imperforate horizontally --- --- ---
1863e vertical pair, imperforate between  --- --- ---
1863f horizontal  pair, imperforate between  --- --- ---


23¢ Mary Cassatt
purple

Designer: Dennis Lyall (CT)     Modeler: Clarence Holbert
Vignette: K. Kipperman      Lettering: Gary J. Slaght & Thomas J. Bakos

Issue Date   Usage
Souvenir Page: SP723
Number Type   Print Method   Plate Nos.
100 stamps per pane
Perforation Tagging Collectible Varieties & Selvage Markings
Image Size: 18.03 x 20.83 mm
Issued 11/4/1988 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

This stamp, the 43rd in the Great American Series, paid the second ounce rate for international surface mail.
2181 tagged sheet stamp;  intaglio A press; 
plate no. 1 (four positions)
11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
large block plate # block of 4; ZIP block of 4;
 
 UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE 1988;  
USE CORRECT ZIP CODE
2181a A press; plate no. 1 (four positions);
C press;  plate no. 2 
11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
overall
2181b C Press uniform pre-phosphored
plate no. 2
11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
solid
2181c C Press mottled pre-phosphored
plate no. 3
11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
mottled
2181d tagging omitted (error stamp) 11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
none ---


25¢ Jack London
Blue

Designer: Richard Sparks (CT)
Vignette: Thomas Hipschen     Lettering: Dennis Brown

Issue Date   Usage
Souvenir Page: SP724
Number Type   Print Method   Plate Nos.
100 stamps per pane
Perforation Tagging Collectible Varieties & Selvage Markings
Image Size: 18.03 x 20.83 mm
Sheet Stamp
Issued 1/11/1986 in 
Glen Ellen, California

This stamp was the 27th in the Great American Series.
2182 tagged sheet stamp;  intaglio A press; 
plate no. 1 (four positions)
11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
large block plate # block of 4; ZIP block of 4;
 
 UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE 1985;  
USE CORRECT ZIP CODE
2182b tagging omitted (error stamp) 11.2 x 11.1 none
2182d horizontal pair imperforate between --- ---
2182f vertical setenant pair, 
bottom stamp all color omitted
11.2 x 11.1 ---
Booklet Stamp
Issued 5/3/1988 in 
San Francisco, California
Three stamp booklets were made. Two had 6-stamp panes, a 1-pane ($1.50) and a 2-pane ($3). The third had two 10-stamp panes ($5).
2182a booklet pane (10)  large block note: the stamps from the 10-stamp 
booklet panes are narrower than the 
6-stamp panes. These stamps measure:
21.34 x 24.38 mm
2182c booklet pane (10) tagging omitted none
2182e booklet pane (10) 
all color omitted on right stamps
2197 booklet single large block note: the stamps from the 6-stamp booklet panes are wider than those from the 
10-stamp panes. These stamps measure:
22.10 x 24.38 mm
2197a booklet pane (6) large block
2197b tagging omitted single (wider) none
2197c tagging omitted booklet pane of 6 (wider) none


28¢ Sitting Bull
myrtle green

Designer: Robert D. Anderson (MA)
Vignette: Gary Chaconas     Lettering: Dennis Brown

Issue Date   Usage
Souvenir Page: SP725
Number Type   Print Method   Plate Nos.
100 stamps per pane
Perforation Tagging Collectible Varieties & Selvage Markings
Image Size: 18.03 x 20.83 mm
Issued 9/14/1989 in 
Rapid City, South Dakota

This stamp, the 46th in the Great American Series, paid the post card rate sent via surface mail to all foreign destinations except Canada and Mexico.
2183 tagged sheet stamp;  intaglio A press; 
plate no. 1 (four positions)
11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
large block plate # block of 4; ZIP block of 4;
 
 UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE 1988; 
USE CORRECT ZIP CODE


29¢ Earl Warren
blue

Designer: Christopher Calle (CT)
Modeler: Richard Sennett     Engraver: Czeslaw Slania

Issue Date   Usage
Souvenir Page: SP726
Number Type   Print Method   Plate Nos.
100 stamps per pane
Perforation Tagging Collectible Varieties & Selvage Markings
Image Size: 18.03 x 20.83 mm
Issued 3/9/1992 in 
Washington, D.C.

This stamp, the 52nd in the Great American Series, replaced the 29¢
Americana
stamp.
2184 pre-phosphored sheet stamp;
  intaglio T/A press; 
plate nos. S1, S2
10.9 x 10.9
(bulls-eye)
mottled plate # block of 4, ZIP block of 4;

 UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE 1991; 
USE CORRECT ZIP CODE

Descriptive Selvage: 
Earl Warren (1891-1974),
prominent jurist. Elected Governor of 
California for three terms. 14th Chief
Justice of the U.S. from 1953 to 1969


29¢ Thomas Jefferson
indigo

Designer: James Schleyer     Modeler: V. Jack Ruther
Vignette: Gary M. Chaconas     Lettering: Dennis Brown  

Issue Date   Usage
Souvenir Page: SP727
Number Type   Print Method   Plate Nos.
100 stamps per pane
Perforation Tagging Collectible Varieties & Selvage Markings
Image Size: 18.03 x 20.83 mm
Issued 4/13/1993 in
Charlottesville, Virginia

This stamp, the 53rd in the Great American Series, replaced the 29¢
Earl Warren stamp.
2185 uniform pre-phosphored sheet stamp;
  intaglio T/A press; 
plate nos. S1, S2
10.9 x 10.9
(bulls-eye)
solid plate # block of 4; ZIP block of 4

 UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE 1993; 
USE CORRECT ZIP CODE

plate position diagram with inscription: 
This plate position
during printing


30¢ Frank C. Laubach
olive gray

Designers: Richard Sparks (CT)
Vignette: Gary Chaconas      Lettering: Thomas J. Bakos

Issue Date   Usage
Souvenir Page: SP523
Number Type   Print Method   Plate Nos.
100 stamps per pane
Perforation Tagging Collectible Varieties & Selvage Markings
Image Size: 18.03 x 20.83 mm
Issued 9/2/1984 at the Benton Area Junior-Senior High School in Benton, Pennsylvania

This stamp, the 17th in the Great American Series, replaced the 30¢
Americana
stamp
1864 tagged sheet stamp;  intaglio A press; 
floating plate no. 1
10.8 x 10.9 (L-perf) small block plate # block of 6;  plate # block of 20 with either 1 or 2 plate numbers & selvage markings; 
 UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE 1984;  
USE CORRECT ZIP CODE
1864a tagged sheet stamp;  intaglio A press; 
4-position selvage; plate no. 2
11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
large block plate # block of 4, ZIP block of 4
 
 UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE 1984;  
USE CORRECT ZIP CODE
1864b tagged sheet stamp;  intaglio A press; 
4-position selvage; plate no. 2
11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
overall
1864c tagging omitted (error stamp) 11.2 x 11.1 none ---


32¢ Milton Hershey
brown

Designer: Dennis Lyall (CT)
Modeler: Ron Centra (BCA)      Engraver: Richard Baratz

Issue Date   Usage
Souvenir Page: SP1126
Number Type   Print Method   Plate Nos.
100 stamps per pane
Perforation Tagging Collectible Varieties & Selvage Markings
Image Size: 18.03 x 20.83 mm
Issued 9/13/1995 in
Hershey, Pennsylvania

This stamp was the 57th in the Great American Series and paid the First-Class 
rate for the first ounce on domestic letters.
2933 uniform pre-phosphored sheet stamp;
  intaglio T/A press; 
plate nos. B1, B2
11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
solid plate # block of 4; 
PANE POSITION (with diagram showing the position)
 USPS 1994   .32 x 100 = $32.50



32¢ Carl Farley
green

Designer: Dennis Lyall (CT)
Modeler: Banknote Corporation of America  

Issue Date   Usage
Souvenir Page: SP1127
Number Type   Print Method   Plate Nos.
100 stamps per pane
Perforation Tagging Collectible Varieties & Selvage Markings
Image Size: 17.53 x 21.34 mm
Issued 4/26/1996 in
Amarillo, Texas

This stamp, the 59th in the Great American Series, replaced the 32¢ Hershey stamp and paid the First-Class rate for the first ounce on domestic letters.
2934 uniform pre-phosphored sheet stamp;
  intaglio T/A press; 
plate no. B1
11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
solid, lightly coated examples appear mottled plate # block of 4; 
PANE POSITION (with diagram showing the position)
 USPS 1995   .32 x 100 = $32.50 


32¢ Henry R. Luce
lake

Designer: Richard Sheaff (AZ)
Modeler: Banknote Corporation of America      Engraver: Milos Ondracek

Issue Date   Usage
Souvenir Page: SP1128
Number Type   Print Method   Plate Nos.
20 stamps ( 5 x 4 ) per pane
Perforation Tagging Collectible Varieties & Selvage Markings
Image Size: 17.58 x 20.37mm
Issued 4/3/1998 in New York, New York

This stamp, the 60th in the Great American Series, replaced the 32¢ Farley stamp and paid the First-Class rate for the first ounce on domestic letters.
2935 uniform pre-phosphored sheet stamp;
  intaglio T/A press; 
plate no. B1
11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
grainy solid plate # block of 4; pane of 20
PANE POSITION (with diagram showing the position)
 USPS 1997   .32 x 20 = $6.40 


32¢ Lila & DeWitt Wallace
blue

Printer: Ashton-Potter
Designer: Howard Paine (VA)     Modeler: Joseph Sheeran

Issue Date   Usage
Souvenir Page: SP1129
Number Type   Print Method   Plate Nos.
20 stamps ( 5 x 4 ) per pane
Perforation Tagging Collectible Varieties & Selvage Markings
Image Size: 21.34 x 25.15 mm
Issued 7/16/1998 in
Pleasantville, New York

This stamp, the 61st in the Great American Series, replaced the 32¢ Luce stamp and paid the First-Class rate for the first ounce on domestic letters.
2936 uniform pre-phosphored sheet stamp;
  intaglio Stevens press; 
plate no. P1
11.3 x 11.2 solid plate # block of 4; pane of 20
PANE POSITION (with diagram showing the position)
 USPS 1997   .32 x 20 = $6.40 
2936a light blue 11.3 x 11.2 solid


35¢ Charles R. Drew MD
gray

Designer: Nathan Jones (TX)
Vignette: Thomas Hipschen       Lettering: Gary Slaght

Issue Date   Usage
Souvenir Page: SP524
Number Type   Print Method   Plate Nos.
100 stamps per pane
Perforation Tagging Collectible Varieties & Selvage Markings
Image Size: 19.05 x 22.09 mm
Issued 6/3/1981 in Washington, D. C.

This stamp, the 4th in the Great American Series, 
paid the new First-Class postage rate for 
two ounces of mail 
1865 tagged sheet stamp; 
intaglio Cottrell press; 
plate nos. 1-4
11.2 x 10.5
electric eye
overall plate # block of 4, ZIP block of 4

 UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE; 
 USE CORRECT ZIP CODE; 
 Mr. ZIP
1865a tagging omitted (error stamp) 11.2 x 10.5
electric eye
none ---


35¢ Dennis Chavez
black

Designer: Chris Calle
Ridgefield, Connecticut  

Issue Date   Usage
Souvenir Page: SP728
Number Type   Print Method   Plate Nos.
100 stamps per pane
Perforation Tagging Collectible Varieties & Selvage Markings
Image Size: 18.03 x 20.83 mm
Issued 4/3/1991 in
Albuquerque, New Mexico

This stamp, the 49th in the Great American Series, paid the new rate for one ounce letters to Mexico.
2186 pre-phosphored sheet stamp;
  intaglio T/A press; 
plate nos. S1, S2
10.9 x 10.9 (L-perf) uncoated paper; mottled
tagging
plate # block of 4, ZIP block of 4
 United States Postal Service 1991; 
USE CORRECT ZIP CODE ; 
Dennis Chavez   Born, Apr. 8, 1888   
Died, Nov. 18, 1962
U.S. Representative from New Mexico.  Served 1931 to 1935
Became U.S. Senator   1935. Served until  his death in 1962 


37¢ Robert Millikan
blue

Designer: Roy Anderson (AZ)     Modeler: Ronald Sharpe
Vignette: Joseph Creamer, Jr.     Lettering: Robert Culin, Sr.

Issue Date   Usage
Souvenir Page: SP525
Number Type   Print Method   Plate Nos.
100 stamps per pane
Perforation Tagging Collectible Varieties & Selvage Markings
Image Size: 19.05 x 22.09 mm
Issued 1/26/1982 at the California Institute of Technology in 
Pasadena, California

This stamp, the 7th in the Great American Series, 
paid the new First-Class postage rate for 
two ounces of mail, effective, 11/1/1981 
1866 tagged sheet stamp; 
intaglio Cottrell press; 
plate nos. 1-4
11.2 x 10.5
electric eye
overall plate # block of 4, ZIP block of 4

UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE 1981;  USE CORRECT ZIP CODE
1866a tagging omitted (error stamp)
plate no. 3
11.2 x 10.5
electric eye
none ---


39¢ Grenville Clark
rose lilac

Designer: Roy Anderson (AZ)
Vignette: Gary Chaconas     Lettering: Dennis Brown

Issue Date   Usage
Souvenir Page: SP526
Number Type   Print Method   Plate Nos.
100 stamps per pane
Perforation Tagging Collectible Varieties & Selvage Markings
Image Size: 18.03 x 20.83 mm
Issued 3/20/1985 at Dartmouth College in Hanover, New Hampshire

This stamp was the 21st in the Great American Series. 
1867 tagged sheet stamp;  intaglio A press; 
floating plate no. 1
10.8 x 10.9 (L-perf) small block plate # block of 6;  plate # block of 20 with either 1 or 2 plate numbers & selvage markings;  UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE 1985;  
USE CORRECT ZIP CODE
1867c tagged sheet stamp;  intaglio A press; 
floating plate no. 1
10.8 x 10.9 (L-perf) large block
1867d tagged sheet stamp;  intaglio A press; 
4-position selvage; plate no. 2
11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
large block plate # block of 4, ZIP block of 4; 
 UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE 1985;  USE CORRECT ZIP CODE
1867a vertical pair, imperforate horizontally --- --- ---
1867b vertical pair, imperforate between  --- --- ---


40¢ Lillian M. Gilbreth
dark green

Designer: Ward Brackett (CT)     Modeler: Ronald C. Sharpe
Vignette: Kenneth Kipperman     Lettering: Gary J. Slaght

Issue Date   Usage
Souvenir Page: SP527
Number Type   Print Method   Plate Nos.
100 stamps per pane
Perforation Tagging Collectible Varieties & Selvage Markings
Image Size: 18.03 x 20.83 mm
Issued 2/24/1984 at the Montclair State College Student Center in 
Montclair, New Jersey

This stamp, the 15th in the Great American Series, paid the international air mail rate for the first half ounce
1868 tagged sheet stamp;  intaglio A press; 
floating plate no. 1
10.8 x 10.9 (L-perf) small block plate # block of 6;  plate # block of 20 with either 1 or 2 plate numbers & selvage markings;  UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE 1984;  
USE CORRECT ZIP CODE
1868a tagged sheet stamp;  intaglio A press; 
4-position selvage; plate no. 2
11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
large block plate # block of 4, ZIP block of 4
 
 UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE 1984;  USE CORRECT ZIP CODE


40¢ Claire Chennault
dark blue

Designer: Chris Calle (CT)
Vignette: Thomas Hipschen     Lettering: Dennis Brown

Issue Date   Usage
Souvenir Page: SP729
Number Type   Print Method   Plate Nos.
100 stamps per pane
Perforation Tagging Collectible Varieties & Selvage Markings
Image Size: 18.03 x 20.83 mm
Issued 9/6/1990 in
Monroe, Louisiana

This stamp, the 48th in the Great American Series, replaced the 40¢ Gilbreth.
2187 tagged sheet stamp;  intaglio A press; 
4-position selvage; plate no. 1
11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
overall
dull gum
plate # block of 4, ZIP block of 4

 UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE 1990;  USE CORRECT ZIP CODE

Descriptive Selvage: 
Claire Lee Chennault   (1890-1958) Lt. Gen. Led AVG Flying Tigers   in China, 1941-43 Headed WWII China   Air War 1943-45
2187a C Press uniform pre-phosphored coated paper; plate no. 2 11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
solid
dull gum
2187b (1998) C Press uniform pre-
phosphored coated paper; plate no. 2
11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
grainy solid
low gloss gum
2187c (1994) C Press mottled pre-
phosphored coated paper
11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
mottled
shiny gum
2187d tagging omitted (error stamp) 11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
none


45¢ Harvey Cushing MD
bright blue

Designer: Bradbury Thompson     Modeler: Ronald Sharpe
Vignette: Gary Chaconas       Lettering: Michael J. Ryan

Issue Date   Usage
Souvenir Page: SP730
Number Type   Print Method   Plate Nos.
100 stamps per pane
Perforation Tagging Collectible Varieties & Selvage Markings
Image Size: 18.03 x 20.83 mm
Issued 6/17/1988 in
Cleveland, Ohio

This stamp was the 41st in the Great American Series.
2188 tagged sheet stamp;  intaglio A press; 
4-position selvage; plate no. 1
11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
large block plate # block of 4, ZIP block of 4

 UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE 1987;  USE CORRECT ZIP CODE
2188a (1990) blue; intaglio A press; 
4-position selvage; plate no. 1
11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
overall
2188b tagging omitted (error Stamp) 11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
none


46¢ Ruth Benedict
carmine

Designer: Roy Anderson (AZ)
Vignette: Kenneth Kipperman      Lettering: Dennis Brown, J. Smith

Issue Date   Usage
Souvenir Page: SP1131
Number Type   Print Method   Plate Nos.
100 stamps per pane
Perforation Tagging Collectible Varieties & Selvage Markings
Image Size: 18.03 x 20.83 mm
Issued 10/20/1995 in
Virginia Beach, Virginia

This stamp was the 58th in the Great American Series.
2938 pre-phosphored sheet stamp;
uncoated paper;
  intaglio D press; 
plate no. 1
11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
mottled plate # block of 4; 
PANE POSITION (with diagram showing the position)
 USPS 1994   .46 x 100 = $46.00



50¢ Chester W. Nimitz
brown

Designer: Christopher Calle (CT)      Modeler: Clarence Holbert
Vignette: Thomas R. Hipschen      Lettering: Robert G. Culin, Sr.

Issue Date   Usage
Souvenir Page: SP528
Number Type   Print Method   Plate Nos.
100 stamps per pane
Perforation Tagging Collectible Varieties & Selvage Markings
Image Size: 18.03 x 20.83 mm
Issued 2/22/1985 at the Admiral Nimitz State Historical Park in Fredericksburg, Texas

This stamp, the 20th in the Great American Series, replaced the 50¢
Americana
stamp 
1869 tagged sheet stamp;  intaglio I-8 press;  10.8 x 10.9 (L-perf) overall, shiny gum plate # block of 4, ZIP block of 4;  UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE 1984;  USE CORRECT ZIP CODE
1869a tagged sheet stamp;  intaglio A press; 
4-position selvage; plate nos. 1, 2
11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
large block; dull gum plate # block of 4, ZIP block of 4
 
 UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE 1984;  
USE CORRECT ZIP CODE
1869d A press 4-position selvage; plate no. 2
and C press plate no. 3
11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
overall, 
dull gum
1869e (1992) prephosphored uncoated;
C press plate no. 3
11.2 x 11.1 mottled; shiny gum plate # block of 4, ZIP block of 4
1869b tagging omitted (error stamp) 10.8 x 10.9 (L-perf) ---
1869c tagging omitted (error stamp) 11.2 x 11.1; dull gum  ---


52¢ Hubert Humphrey
purple

Designer: John Berkey (MN)
Art Director and Typographer: Howard Paine

Issue Date   Usage
Souvenir Page: SP731
Number Type   Print Method   Plate Nos.
100 stamps per pane
Perforation Tagging Collectible Varieties & Selvage Markings
Image Size: 18.03 x 20.83 mm
Issued 6/3/1991 in
Minneapolis, Minnesota

This stamp was the 50th in the Great American Series.
2189 uniform pre-phosphored sheet stamp; coated paper; intaglio C press; 
plate no. 1
11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
solid plate # block of 4, ZIP block of 4

 UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE 1984;  USE CORRECT ZIP CODE

Descriptive Selvage: 
Hubert H. Humphrey   was born in 1911   and died in 1978   He served four terms   as a U.S. Senator   from Minnesota   (Plate 1 only) From 1964 to 1968   he served as the 38th   U.S. Vice President. 
Note: This was corrected to read "From 1965 to 1969" and appears on both plates 1 and 2.
2189a pre-phosphored sheet stamp;
 uncoated paper; intaglio C press;
plate nos. 1, 2 
11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
mottled


55¢ Alice Hamilton MD
green

Designer: Chris Calle (CT)
Modeler: Ron Centra (BCA)     Engraver: Richard Baratz

Issue Date   Usage
Souvenir Page: SP1133
Number Type   Print Method   Plate Nos.
100 stamps per pane
Perforation Tagging Collectible Varieties & Selvage Markings
Image Size: 18.03 x 20.83 mm

Issued 7/11/1995 in
Boston, Massachusetts

This stamp was the 55th in the Great American Series.
2940 uniform pre-phosphored sheet stamp;
  intaglio T/A press; 
plate nos. B1, B2, B3
11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
grainy solid plate # block of 4; 
PANE POSITION (with diagram showing the position)
 USPS 1995   .55 x 100 = $55.00

2940a imperforate pair --- ---


55¢ Justin Morrill
black

Illustrator: Burt Silverman (NY)     Designer: Howard Paine (VA)
Modeler: Banknote Corporation of America, Inc.

Issue Date   Usage
Souvenir Page: SP1134
Number Type   Print Method   Plate Nos.
 20 stamps ( 5 x 4 ) per pane
Perforation Tagging Collectible Varieties & Selvage Markings
Image Size: 17.53 x 20.32 mm
Issued 7/17/1999 in
Stratford, Vermont

This stamp, the 63rd 
and last of the Great American Series, replaced the 55¢ Hamilton stamp.
2941 uniform pre-phosphored sheet stamp;
  intaglio Epikos press; 
plate no. B1
serpentine die-cut 11.7x11.5

self- adhesive
solid plate # block of 4; pane of 20
PANE POSITION (with diagram showing the position)
 USPS 1998   .55 x 20 = $11.00 


56¢ John Harvard
scarlet

Designer: Robert Anderson (MA)     Modeler: Clarence Holbert
Vignette: Thomas R. Hipschen      Lettering: Robert G. Culin, Sr.

Issue Date   Usage
Souvenir Page: SP732
Number Type   Print Method   Plate Nos.
100 stamps per pane
Perforation Tagging Collectible Varieties & Selvage Markings
Image Size: 18.03 x 20.83 mm
Issued 9/3/1986 in
Cambridge, Massachusetts

This stamp was the 33rd in the Great American Series.
2190 tagged sheet stamp;  intaglio A press; 
4-position selvage; plate no. 1
11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
large block plate # block of 4, ZIP block of 4

 UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE 1986;  
USE CORRECT ZIP CODE
2190a tagging omitted (error stamp) 11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
none


65¢ Hap Arnold
dark blue

Designer: Chris Calle (CT)
Vignette: Thomas Hipschen      Lettering: Michael J. Ryan

Issue Date   Usage
Souvenir Page: SP733
Number Type   Print Method   Plate Nos.
100 stamps per pane
Perforation Tagging Collectible Varieties & Selvage Markings
Image Size: 18.03 x 20.83 mm
Issued 11/5/1988 in 
Gladwyne, Pennsylvania

This stamp was the 44th in the Great American Series.
2191 tagged sheet stamp;  intaglio A press; 
4-position selvage; plate no. 1
11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
large block plate # block of 4, ZIP block of 4

 UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE 1988;  
USE CORRECT ZIP CODE
2191a tagging omitted (error stamp) 11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
none


75¢ Wendell Willkie
deep magenta

Designer: Chris Calle (CT)
Vignette: Thomas Hipschen     Lettering: Richard Everett

Issue Date   Usage
Souvenir Page: SP734
Number Type   Print Method   Plate Nos.
100 stamps per pane
Perforation Tagging Collectible Varieties & Selvage Markings
Image Size: 18.03 x 20.83 mm
Issued 2/16/1992 in
Bloomington, Indiana

This stamp was the 51st in the Great American Series.
2192 uniform pre-phosphored sheet stamp; coated paper; intaglio C press; 
plate no. 1 
11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
solid
dull gum
plate # block of 4, ZIP block of 4

 UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE 1991;  
USE CORRECT ZIP CODE

Descriptive Selvage: 
Wendell Willkie,   lawyer, businessman   and politician.   Candidate for the   U.S. presidency in   the 1940 election.   In One World 1943, he pleaded for global cooperation 
2192a pre-phosphored sheet stamp;
 uncoated paper; intaglio C press;
plate no. 1 
11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
mottled
shiny gum


77¢ Mary Breckinridge
blue

Illustrator: B. Silverman (NY)     Designer: H. Paine (VA)
Engraver: Martin Morck     Modeler: Banknote Corp. of America

Issue Date   Usage
Souvenir Page: SP1135
Number Type   Print Method   Plate Nos.
20 stamps ( 4 x 5 ) per pane
Perforation Tagging Collectible Varieties & Selvage Markings
 Image Size: 17.526 x 20.32 mm
Issued 11/9/1998 in
Troy, New York

This stamp was the 62nd in the Great American Series. 
2942 uniform pre-phosphored sheet stamp;
  intaglio Epikos press; 
plate nos. B1, B2
serpentine die-cut 
11.5 x 11.5
self- adhesive
solid plate # block of 4; pane of 20
PANE POSITION (with diagram showing the position)
 USPS 1998   .77 x 20 = $15.40 


78¢ Alice Paul
bright violet

Designer: Chris Calle (CT)
Modeler: Ron Centra (of Banknote Corporation of America)

Issue Date   Usage
Souvenir Page: SP1136
Number Type   Print Method   Plate Nos.
100 stamps per pane
Perforation Tagging Collectible Varieties & Selvage Markings
Image Size: 18.03 x 20.83 mm
Issued 8/18/1996 in
Mount Laurel, New Jersey

This stamp was the 56th in the Great American Series. 
2943 uniform pre-phosphored sheet stamp;
  intaglio T/A press; 
plate nos. B1, B2
11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
solid plate # block of 4; 
PANE POSITION (with diagram showing the position)
 USPS 1994   .78 x 100 = $78.00
2943a dull violet; 
uniform pre-phosphored sheet stamp;
  intaglio T/A press; 
plate nos. B1, B2
11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
grainy solid
2943b pale violet;
uniform pre-phosphored sheet stamp;
intaglio T/A press;
plate nos. B1, B2
11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
grainy solid


$1 Bernard Revel
Dark Prussian green

Designer: Tom Broad (MD)      Modeler: Peter Cocci
Vignette: Kenneth Kipperman      Lettering: Robert Culin, Sr.

Issue Date   Usage
Souvenir Page: SP735
Number Type   Print Method   Plate Nos.
100 stamps per pane
Perforation Tagging Collectible Varieties & Selvage Markings
Image Size: 18.03 x 20.83 mm
Issued 9/23/1986 in 
New York, New York

This stamp was the 35th in the Great American Series and replaced the $1 
Americana stamp.
2193 tagged sheet stamp;  intaglio A press; 
4-position selvage; plate no. 1
11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
large block plate # block of 4, ZIP block of 4

 UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE 1986;  
USE CORRECT ZIP CODE
2193b tagging omitted 11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
large block ---


$1 Johns Hopkins
deep blue

Designer: Bradbury Thompson
Vignette: Gary Chaconas      Lettering: Dennis Brown

Issue Date   Usage
Souvenir Page: SP736
Number Type   Print Method   Plate Nos.
20 stamps per pane
Perforation Tagging Collectible Varieties & Selvage Markings
Image Size: 18.03 x 20.83 mm
Issued 6/7/1989 in
Baltimore, Maryland

This stamp, the 45th in the Great American Series, replaces the $1 Revel.
2194 --- large block "Lipstick on Shirt Front" variety;
plate # block of 4; pane of 20
 USPS 1989
2194b deep blue overall
2194c --- none
2194d dark blue solid
2194e blue --- mottled
2194f blue --- grainy solid


$2 William Jennings Bryan
bright violet

Designer: Tom Broad (MD)
Vignette: Vignette: Thomas Hipschen      Lettering: Dennis Brown

Issue Date   Usage
Souvenir Page: SP737
Number Type   Print Method   Plate Nos.
100 stamps per pane
Perforation Tagging Collectible Varieties & Selvage Markings
Image Size: 18.03 x 20.83 mm
Issued 3/19/1986 in
Salem, Illinois

This stamp, the 29th in the Great American Series, replaced the $2 
Americana stamp.
2195 tagged sheet stamp;  intaglio A press; 
4-position selvage; plate no. 1
11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
large block plate # block of 4, ZIP block of 4

 UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE 1986;  
USE CORRECT ZIP CODE
2195a tagging omitted (error stamp) 11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
none


$5 Bret Harte
copper red

Designer: Arthur Lidov (CA)      Modeler: Esther F. Porter
Vignette: Thomas Hipschen      Lettering: Thomas J. Bakos

Issue Date   Usage
Souvenir Page: SP739
Number Type   Print Method   Plate Nos.
20 stamps per pane
Perforation Tagging Collectible Varieties & Selvage Markings
Image Size: 18.03 x 20.83 mm
Issued 8/25/1987 in
Twain Harte, California

This stamp, the 39th in the Great American Series, replaced the $5 
Americana stamp.
2196 tagged sheet stamp;  intaglio A press; 
4-position selvage; plate no. 1
11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
large block plate # block of 4; pane of 20
 USPS 1986 
2196a tagging omitted (error stamp) 11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
none ---
2196b uniform pre-phosphored sheet stamp; coated paper;  intaglio A press; 
4-position selvage; plate no. 2
11.2 x 11.1
(bulls-eye)
solid plate # block of 4; pane of 20
 USPS 1986 


Image Size: The "Image Size" which is sometimes referred to elsewhere as "design size", or in this case "Image Area" by the USPS on their Souvenir Pages, is given to a greater degree of accuracy than is probably warranted, and this is to match the two decimal places listed by the USPS (for the most part). In reality, the design sizes may vary wildly from the listed dimension and the reader is encouraged to make their own measurements. For example, the 3¢ Clay stamp is much narrower than the listed width of 19.05mm, a quick comparison with its catalogue neighbors will verify that.

In addition, the USPS Souvenir Pages list the metric conversion of 0.82 inches as 20.82mm. It is actually 20.828mm and is therefore listed as 20.83mm here.

Issue Order: Some of the order of issuance listed here may differ from those listed on the Souvenir Pages. You can rest assured that the order listed here is based on the actual first day of issue. It is not entirely clear how the USPS kept track of the order and in fact there are some glaring errors on the Souvenir Pages themselves. For example, both the 17¢ Rachel Carson and the 35¢ Charles Drew are listed as being the "third issue in the (new) Great American Series ". It is not difficult to understand why the order of subsequent stamps might be out-of-whack.

Bibliography and suggested additional reading:
The Great Americans, a 20pp stapled book by Stephen G. Esrati available for $10 postpaid from: Stephen G. Esrati, P. O. Box 20130, Shaker Heights, OH 44120-0130

The Great Americans - a 12-part series by Stephen G. Esrati (USSS Jan.-Dec. 2006) - this includes much, much more information than listed on this page, including tagging, gum breakers and paper types and is highly recommended reading

USPS Souvenir Sheets - biographical information for each Great American can be found on their respective Souvenir Sheet and additional information regarding art directors and typographers may be found, although such information is sporadic Durland Standard Plate Number Catalog 2008 edition, compiled and edited by Wallace Cleland (USSS publication)

Websites of interest to the Great American series collector:
The Smithsonian National Postal Museum, Arago Site . With a little searching you can find biographical information for each Great American stamp.