Streetcars played a crucial role in the development of American cities, shaping urban transportation from the late 19th to the early 20th century. To honor these iconic vehicles, the U.S. Postal Service issued commemorative Streetcars 20c 4-Stamp Series on May 26, 1983. Each stamp in the series showcases a different streetcar from various parts of the country, celebrating their historical significance and contribution to city life. Collectors and transportation enthusiasts alike appreciate these stamps for their detailed artwork and nostalgic value.
This four-stamp series features vibrant illustrations of streetcars from different eras and regions, highlighting their unique designs and historical importance.
1. Early Electric Streetcar stamp (Montgomery, Ala, 1886) – Scott #2060
Montgomery, Alabama, was the first U.S. city to introduce an electric streetcar system in 1886. The stamp features an illustration of an early electric streetcar, capturing its vintage design and the overhead wires that powered it.
This innovation marked a major shift in urban transportation, replacing horse-drawn streetcars and paving the way for electric transit nationwide. Issued on May 26, 1983, as part of a four-stamp set, it commemorates the impact of streetcars on city life and mobility.
2. First American Streetcar stamp (New York City, 1832) – Scott #2059
This commemorates the introduction of the first horse-drawn streetcar in New York City in 1832. The stamp features an illustration of an early horse-drawn streetcar, which ran on rails and provided a smoother ride compared to traditional carriages.
This innovation revolutionized urban transportation, making public transit more efficient and accessible in growing American cities. Issued on May 26, 1983, as part of a four-stamp set, it highlights a key moment in the history of U.S. public transit. Collectors and history enthusiasts value this stamp for its tribute to the origins of streetcar travel in America.
3. St. Charles Streetcar stamp (New Orleans, Louisiana, 1923) – Scott #2062
The second stamp showcases the famous New Orleans streetcar, one of the oldest continuously operating streetcar systems in the world. Painted in traditional green and red hues, the car depicted is reminiscent of the historic St. Charles Avenue line, which has been in operation since the 1830s.
This stamp pays tribute to New Orleans' rich transit history and the role streetcars played in the city’s development.
4. "Bobtail" Horsecar stamp (Sulphur Rock, Ark, 1926) — Scott #2061
The “Bobtail” Horsecar stamp honors the last recorded horse-drawn streetcar operation in Sulphur Rock, Arkansas, in 1926. The stamp depicts a “bobtail” horsecar, a small, single-horse streetcar without a rear platform, which was commonly used in smaller towns and less populated areas.
By the 1920s, most American cities had transitioned to electric streetcars, making this operation one of the last remnants of the horse-drawn transit era.
Streetcars 20c 4-Stamp Series Black Omitted Error — Scott #2062b
The Streetcars 20c 4-Stamp Series Black Omitted Error (Scott #2062b) is a rare and valuable U.S. stamp error issued in 1984. This error occurs when the black ink, which includes key design details, is missing from the printed stamp. The 20-cent streetcar series features historic trolleys, but without the black layer, important elements like inscriptions and fine details are absent.
Collectors prize this error for its rarity and visual distinction from the standard issue. Due to its scarcity, Scott #2062b commands a high price in the philatelic market.
Conclusion
The Streetcars 20c stamp series is a remarkable tribute to the history of urban transportation in the United States. With its detailed and historically accurate illustrations, this set offers collectors a glimpse into the evolution of streetcars and their impact on city life. The series, with Scott numbers 2059-2062, remains a sought-after addition for philatelists who appreciate transportation history and vintage American transit systems.
Whether you are a stamp collector, history enthusiast, or admirer of classic streetcars, this set captures the essence of an era when streetcars were the lifeline of urban America.
