Who appeared on the first US postage stamps?

When the first US postage stamps were issued in 1847, two prominent figures were featured on them. These individuals were George Washington and Benjamin Franklin. Both of these men played significant roles in the founding of the United States and were highly respected by their contemporaries.

George Washington, the first President of the United States, is often referred to as the "Father of His Country." He led the American colonies to victory in the Revolutionary War and presided over the Constitutional Convention that established the framework for the new nation. Washington is widely regarded as one of the greatest leaders in American history and his image is still featured on the one-dollar bill today.

Benjamin Franklin was a polymath who excelled in many fields, including science, politics, and diplomacy. He was a key figure in the American Enlightenment and played a crucial role in securing French support for the American cause during the Revolutionary War. Franklin is perhaps best known for his experiments with electricity and his invention of the lightning rod. His wise and witty sayings are still quoted today.

Both Washington and Franklin were chosen to appear on the first US postage stamps as a way to honor their contributions to the young nation. The stamps featuring their portraits were issued in 1847 and became instant collectors' items. Today, they are highly sought after by philatelists and historians alike.

If you would like to learn more about the history of US postage stamps and the individuals who have been featured on them, you can visit the National Postal Museum website. There, you can explore their extensive collection of stamps and learn about the stories behind them.

In conclusion, George Washington and Benjamin Franklin were the two individuals who appeared on the first US postage stamps. Their images are a testament to their enduring legacy and the impact they had on the development of the United States. To this day, their contributions are remembered and celebrated through these iconic stamps.

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