Sheet reproduces Hawaii’s first stamps

A U.S. souvenir sheet featuring a rarity in philately was released in October – with little fanfare or publicity.

The new souvenir sheet is dedicated to the “Hawaiian Missionary” stamps of 1851-1853, and reproduces Hawaii’s first four postage stamps issued in three denominations – 2 cents, 5 cents and 13 cents.

They are called “Hawaiian Missionaries” because most of them were used on correspondence mailed by Christian missionaries from Hawaii.

These rare stamps now are considered among the foremost collectors’ items, according to the U.S. Postal Service and stamp dealers. Only 28 covers bearing the original Missionary stamps are known to exist, and only one surviving cover bears the 2-cent stamp.

The sheet has a heading: “The Hawaiian Missionary stamps of 1851-1853.” Beneath the banner is a detail of a wood engraving showing Diamond Head. Appearing under the Diamond Head view is an envelope sometimes known as the “Dawson Cover” ” the only surviving envelope to bear the 2-cent stamp. It’s addressed to Eliza A. Dawson of New York. The envelope also has the 5-cent and two 3-cent George Washington stamps. At the bottom of the sheet are replicas of the 2-,5- and 13-cent originals.

The Hawaiian Missionary souvenir sheet can be obtained through the U.S. Stamp Fulfillment Services by calling (800)-STAMP-24.