Stamp Collection: 2 Cent Washington 1909

Stamp Collection: 2 Cent Washington 1909

U.S. #358
1909 2¢ Washington
Bluish Paper

Issue Date: February 16, 1909
Quantity issued: 1,494,000 (estimate)
Printed by: Bureau of Engraving and Printing
Method: Flat plate
Watermark: Double line
Perforation: 12
Color: Carmine

Brief History:

Like so many of the other stamps in the Washington-Franklin Series, this variety came about because of the Bureau of Engraving and Printing’s desire to create a better product. One of the main problems the Bureau was encountering was paper shrinkage. Since the stamps were wet printed they would shrink as the paper dried, causing irregular and “off center” perforations, which resulted in a considerable amount of waste.

To combat the problem, the Bureau changed the composition of the paper by adding 35% wool rag to the wood pulp. Although stamps printed on this paper are known for having a bluish tint, the best way to check them is to examine the gum on the back.

Information reference: https://www.mysticstamp.com/Products/United-States/358/USA/

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