Medallion - 125th Anniversary of US Postage Stamps
1972 year| Silver (.999) | 31.5 g | 39 mm |
| Location | United States |
|---|---|
| Period | Federal republic (1776-date) |
| Type | Medals › Commemorative medals |
| Year | 1972 |
| Composition | Silver (.999) |
| Weight | 31.5 g |
| Diameter | 39 mm |
| Thickness | 3.2 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Updated | 2024-11-13 |
| Numista | N#389599 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Script: Latin
Lettering:
1847-1972
The adoption of Postage Stamps
in 1847 for use in prepayments of Post-
age represented one of the most important
single improvements in the history of the postal
Service. Stamps were issued to provide an accurate
and automatic check on postage revenues. Prior to
the issuance of stamps, letters accepted by Post-
masters were marked "Paid" by means of pen and
ink or hand stamps of various designs.
UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE
US MAIL
Designer: Wayne D. Ashford
Edge
Reeded with inscription
Script: Latin
Lettering: 2118 .999 F.S.
Comment
Some of the information about James C. Curtis has not been verified.
James C. Curtis was a postmaster in Memphis, Tennessee. In the early 1970's he commissioned the production of a set of twelve medallions commemorating major events in postal history. This was done in order to promote collecting and generate revenue. Apart from the first medallion which was sterling, each of the medallions were produced in three types of metals, .999 Fine Silver, Nickel-Silver, and Bronze. The US Mint struck the medallions on behalf of the Post Office. The 1 Oz silver rounds were produced with a proof like finish in limited quantities and each one was serial numbered on the edge.
