#341 1909 50¢

Basic Information

Color: Violet
Subject: George Washington
Watermark: Watermarked double-lined USPS
Printing method: Flat plate
Perforations: 12
Scott #: 341
Quantity issued: 1,826,790
Issued: January 13th, 1909

Value

An unused stamp with perfect gum: $180-$300
An unused stamp with gum and a hinge mark: $60-$80
A used stamp: $6-$9

Usage

#341 earliest known date of use, October 23rd, 1909

#341 was primarily used by businesses and patrons in combination with other denominations to fulfill large package weights, international postage rates, and registry fees.

The Plates and a Large Multiple

#341 was issued with the following plate #'s

Imprint and number
4956

A large used multiple of #341 with a typical registration cancel.

Essays and Proofs

341-E1

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341-P2

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The Inspiration for the Design

George Washington bust by Jean-Antoine Houdon

The vignette was based on a bust of George Washington by french sculptor Jean-Antoine Houdon.

Created in 1785 the bust is considered the most accurate likeness of the first U.S. president. Based on a life mask and clay model made at Mount Vernon, it captures Washington at age 53 with precise facial details, blending a Roman, toga-style aesthetic with realistic aging. It is considered one of the most accurate representations of Washington.