U2501

Smithsonian Institution

150th Anniversary

Collins Cover Announcement 

THE SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION

The red brick Smithsonian Institution Building that is shown on the new stamp is located on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. and was the very first of the Smithsonian buildings. It is commonly known as "The Castle" and it was designed by architect James Renwick. The Institution was established with funds bequeathed to the U.S. by James Smithson. He was an English scientist who designated that the money be used "for the increase and diffusion of knowledge".

On October 10, 1846 an Act of Congress signed by President James K. Polk established the Smithsonian Institution in its present form. Accordingly, this new stamp is being issued to commemorate the 150th Anniversary. During that century and a half, it has grown into a museum; an education and research complex; 16 museums and galleries; the National Zoo; and, research facilities in the arts, history, and sciences. There are more than 140 million artifacts and specimens in the Smithsonian's collections. It has been called "The Nation's Attic".

My hand-painted cachet simply shows a few of the artifacts that span our country's history: Washington's sword from the 1700's; a washing machine from the 1800's; and a hand iron from the 1900's. From Institution exhibits I chose to highlight the Orson Welles radio broadcast in 1938 when numerous listeners thought earth was being invaded by space aliens. Also, I chose to show the Statue of Liberty which welcomed so many newcomers to our shores who in turn contributed so many enrichments to human and national achievement, many of which are remembered and treasured in the Institution.

I am happy to present my cover which commemorates our national museum. James Smithson would have been proud of how his bequest has grown into the present day Smithsonian Institution. Item #U2501. $11.75.

Autum 2019 Mail Sale Commentary 

Lot 25 U2601 First United States Hanukkah Stamp — 10/22/96

This was a historic philatelic issue as it was the very first Hanukkah stamp issued by the U.S. Postal Service. My hand painted cachet shows a group of children playing with a dreidel in the foreground. The design of the new stamp was based on the Jewish Festival of Lights.