4c Lincoln Quotation single on First Day Cover

The fifth stamp in the American Credo Series was issued on November 19, 1960, in New York City during the 12th Annual National Postage Stamp Show. It features words of Abraham Lincoln from a letter written on April 6, 1859, to H.L. Pearce: "Those who deny freedom to others deserve it not for themselves." Like the other American Credo stamps, the 4-cent Lincoln paid the postage for a one-ounce domestic-rate letter.

The Bureau of Engraving and Printing printed the 4-cent stamp, perforated 11, from 200-subject plates on the multicolor Giori Press. The 200-subject sheets were divided into panes of fifty for distribution to post offices. Four plates were used to print the stamp: 26797, 26803, 26805, and 26806.

Frank P. Conley of New York designed the stamp, and Charles R. Chickering modeled it. Robert J. Jones engraved the die's frame, and Howard F. Sharpless engraved its vignette.

Rod Juell
November 3, 2008

Scott Catalogue USA: 1143

Museum ID: 2008.2004.81