About This Stamp
The world’s first cog mountain-climbing railroad opened on July 3, 1869, to carry tourists to the top of Mount Washington, the highest peak in the northeastern United States. It is 6,288 feet high and located in the heart of the White Mountain National Forest in New Hampshire. The Cog Railway stamp depicts the Mount Washington Railway Company's engine no. 5, also known as "The Cloud." It was the fourth and last locomotive built by the line's founder. The stamp was issued June 9, 1995. In spite of its association with New Hampshire, the Postal Service chose Dallas, Texas, as the first day city. There were 28,883 first day covers.
The stamp was issued to pay the 20-cent postcard rate. It was printed by the Bureau of Engraving and Printing by the C press on prephosphored paper. It was issued in coils of 100, 500, and 3,000 stamps. It was not service-inscribed or precancelled.
The stamp was designed by Robert Brangwynne of Boston, Massachusetts. The vignette was engraved by Gary Charconas of the Bureau of Engraving and Printing, and the lettering was done by Dixie March, also of the Bureau of Engraving and Printing.