1997 50c Ben Franklin 1st and Last Day of Sale Dual Cancel, 5/29/97 & 6/8/97 (#3139a)

 Cover Features Postmarks of First and Last Days of Sale of Pacific '97 Stamp

Two Souvenir Sheets were issued to commemorate the Pacific '97 Stamp Show.  Marking the 150th anniversary of America's first postage stamps, the sheets reproduced the designs of US #1 and #2.  The stamps were only on sale during the 11-day stamp show - the shortest sale period in U...  more

 Cover Features Postmarks of First and Last Days of Sale of Pacific '97 Stamp

Two Souvenir Sheets were issued to commemorate the Pacific '97 Stamp Show.  Marking the 150th anniversary of America's first postage stamps, the sheets reproduced the designs of US #1 and #2.  The stamps were only on sale during the 11-day stamp show - the shortest sale period in US postal history.  This cover highlights that historic sale period with a First Day of Issue postmark and a Last Day of Sale postmark.  It would be a fun addition to any cover collection.

U.S. #3139 pictures Benjamin Franklin in a reproduction of U.S. #1.  The new 50-cent denomination covers the international postcard rate.

Ben Franklin - America's First Postmaster General

Benjamin Franklin was a remarkable man. His many impressive accomplishments, along with his success as the first postmaster general, earned Franklin a place on America’s first postage stamp in 1847. And since that time, he has appeared on dozens of U.S. stamps.

Considered by many historians to be the most influential and successful statesman America has ever had, Franklin was in the forefront of our founding fathers. He was the only individual to sign all four key documents in American history – the Declaration of Independence, the Treaty of Alliance with France, the Treaty of Peace with Great Britain, and the Constitution of the United States.   As a diplomat to France during the Revolutionary War, he greatly aided America’s victory. 

Concerned with the happiness, well-being, and dignity of humanity, Franklin continually sought ways to improve life. He established the first subscription library, raised money to build the first city hospital, and founded the University of Pennsylvania. As postmaster he also introduced many needed reforms, greatly improving the efficiency and speed of colonial mail delivery.