Here Is A Challenge

I wish to run a contest sponsored by the "US Classic Stamp Mint and Used board". First I would like nominations for the "U.S. pre 1900" stamp that you feel most embodies Americana.

You do not need to own the stamp, but high quality scans of the issue are required. After nominations close (two weeks 5 Oct 11), I will select the three stamps that have been nominated and have the most seconds. At that point I will open an opinion poll on the "Main Stamp Collecting Forum board" asking the for people to vote for there favorite stamp depicting Americana as they see it.

The stamp that receives the most votes will be the grand prize winner. All I would ask is that the grand prize winner make a donation to the forum.

To nominate a stamp please submit a scan and the reason you think this stamp should qualify.

See below for the grand prize.



1898, $1 BLACK, Sc# 292, Western Cattle in Storm. This is a Fine/Very fine centered stamp with great duplex cancel. Repaired faults on the right side. A very slight crease is noted, but these do not detract form the appeal of this stamp.

Scott 290 theHardships of Emigration.
Where so many countries found their strength in what was the same, the United State found it strength in what was different. This country was built on the backs of the emigrants that sacraficed everything for the chance of a better life. The mixing of these cultures added a richness that is rarely seen in the world.

Bravo Russ.
Very well said.
Any seconds?

Scott 291
As many worldly important people that are immortilized in US classic stamps I have to follow suit with the Trans Mississippi series depicting the true values of the US. As Russ stated how the country was built on the backs of immigrants searching for the American dream. A vast part of that dream and that which provided the US much of its original wealth was the Gold rush. At a time when all you needed was that dream and a pan to wash along a river bank, the prospectors found not just gold but the determination to prevail.
I'll happily second Russ' nomination all the way from Canada

While it's true the Trans-Mississippi series depicts the movement of pioneers across United States and the hardships they endured, emigration came from all directions, and continues today. My own ancestors came to the New World in the 17th century and came to Canada a hundred years later. I think, to really encompass the feeling of vastness of the United States, the word communication was paramount. By reaching out and reaching across the continent your country grew to the giant it is now.
So I think the 2c pony express rider of the 1869 series really illustrates the foundation of America. Even though it only lasted 18 months the express riders still live as a symbol of early American tenacity and endurance.
So I nominate the rider and his pony.

SC#113

US 122, Abraham Lincoln, 1869

2011 was dubbed "Save our history year" in conjunction with the 150th anniversary of the American Civil War. No man from the 19th century was more loved, or more hated, than President Lincoln.

Although 122 was the second such stamp to feature his likeness, it is, in my opinion, the most recognized and treasured of all US stamps featuring President Lincoln.

Brian

Perhaps the thing to do is to take all of the suggestions and turn them into a 3 day poll?

How can one disagree with the Father of our Country ? Nothing says US quite like the Bald Eagle and George Washington. The 1883 210 Bust of George is one of the most recognizable postal history pieces.

OMG!
I never thought this would receive a response of this gravity and depth. So far, every and each entry has been overwhelming by the stamps you present and words that stir such wonderful feelings of pride in being an American. I know that at some level most of us reading your posts will be able to personally relate to your thoughts and drift back to tales told by our grand parents. I personally applaud each of you and I hope we see more.
Ron

Hands down (I.M.O.) Scott #573 The head of liberty done in red white & blue..


edited: added scott #

Yes the "Freedom Head" is a beautiful piece, unfortunately it is from 1923 though.

I think ILS is just showing off because that's such a beautiful example.

Nothing wrong with showing off a piece like that, Beautiful centering, Rich color, simply a Beauty ! ILS and myself were thinking along the same lines as I was going to post the Statue of Liberty 15 cent Stamp from the same series until I saw the pre-1900 requirement.

Can we submit more than one entry?

After some additional thinking about this contest last night I started wondering if I my have limited the entry field by holding it to U.S. pre 1900. After all I wanted this to be sponsored by this forum board and it is "US Classic Stamps Mint" and used which includes stamp through pre 1940. What started me thinking was the stamp posted from ILS (I must admit that I am a bit jealous after looking at it), and Rileysan's question about multiple entries. With this in mined, I am opening it up to all of that have entered for a quick vote and other ideas?
Ron

My first thought was Iwo Jima and the flag raising as that stands out as more than just that small island victory but more of a statement of the US will not be beaten regardless of the odds. I don't think it matters what country your from and wether you agree or disagree with some US policies I think we all owe a great deal of thanks to Ole Glory for being as free as we are. Maybe its because I live only 10 minutes from the US border but even watching hockey games the US anthem can give me goosebumps and the Canadian anthem just doesn't have that pride effect.
Regardless of the "contest" great thread . Can't believe no one has done Mr Franklin as yet.