1906-08 2¢ Washington - U.S. #319

U.S. #319 - 1906-08 2¢ Washington

Released on November 12, 1903, U.S. #319, featuring George Washington, holds a unique place in philatelic history due to its controversial reception and subsequent redesign.

Initially issued in January 1903, the stamp faced severe criticism from the public. While the proofs, printed in black ink on India paper, were hailed as masterpieces, the final product fell short of expectations. Printed on softer stamp paper in red ink, the stamp's design was deemed lacking, with many feeling that the portrait did not do justice to Washington's likeness, and the overall composition appeared cluttered.

Responding swiftly to public dissatisfaction, the Postmaster General made the decision to replace U.S. #319 with a revised design. The new stamp, known as the "two-cent revised design," featured Washington framed by a modified U.S. shield and was released later in the same year. Although the redesign received praise for its clarity and simplicity, some critics considered it the least artistic of the series.

Despite the mixed reception, U.S. #319 remains a significant artifact in philatelic history, showcasing the evolving tastes and preferences of both stamp designers and collectors. Its journey from initial acclaim to subsequent redesign serves as a testament to the iterative nature of stamp design and the importance of public feedback in shaping philatelic artistry.