1932 Washington Bicentennials, set of 12 stamps

Get the Complete 1932
Washington Bicentennials

Own the entire set of twelve 1932 Washington Bicentennial Commemoratives. Each classically engraved stamp is based on a different historic portrait of George Washington by renowned artists. The set chronicles Washington's life and accomplishments. Now over 75 years old, this 12-stamp set is a meaningful tribute to our nation's first President.

Washington Bicentennial

On January 1, 1932, the US Post Office Department issued a set of 12 stamps honoring the 200th anniversary of George Washington’s birth.

The Post Office officially announced their plans for the set of stamps in November 1930. Early on, they had grand ideas for the set.

At one point, the set was to consist of at least 18 stamps with all values between ½¢ and $5. Prior to that, the largest set issued was the Columbians, which had comprised 16 stamps.

The Post Office eventually decided against two-color stamps with grand scenes due to the inaccuracies in famous paintings.

Congress considered a bill proposing all stamps issued in 1932 bear Washington's portrait, but it wasn’t passed.

The famed Gilbert Stuart Athenaeum portrait was selected for the 2¢ stamp, the most used at the time.

The Post Office conducted an emergency reprinting of the 3¢ Washington Bicentennial stamp due to high demand. They reworked the 2¢ Athenaeum design to create a regular 3¢ issue.