About This Stamp
The image of Theodore Roosevelt (1858–1919), the 26th president of the United States (1901–1909), appears on the 30-cent value of the 1938 Presidential series. Roosevelt's likeness was taken from a bust on display in the Senate Gallery of the United States Capitol in Washington, D.C.
Roosevelt, a noted historian, naturalist, and explorer, was also a skillful politician who became a national hero for his exploits with his Rough Riders during the Spanish-American War. As vice president, Roosevelt assumed the presidency upon the assassination of William McKinley in 1901.
This ultramarine stamp, printed only in sheet form, was issued to the public on December 8, 1938, the same day as the 50-cent Presidential stamp featuring William Howard Taft.
This 30-cent stamp saw extensive use in paying fees alone or in combination with other stamps. There are many opportunities for collectors to find solo usages of this stamp paying a variety of rates, including a half-ounce airmail letter to Europe (in effect April 28, 1939, through October 31, 1946); a half-ounce airmail letter to South America (10 cents) plus special delivery (20 cents) (in effect November 1, 1946, through June 30, 1957); and a postcard sent to most international countries (10 cents) plus special delivery (20 cents) (in effect June 1, 1954, through June 30. 1957).