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Below is a record of the correpondance in 1861 between the Third Assistant Post Master General, A.N. Zeveley and Toppan Carpenter & Co. To me I find it interesting how the process of the final design was agreed to. During it you will see that Toppan Carpenter printed a thousands of the 30¢ in black before the Post Master changed his mind on the color. Toppan must have taken a huge loss on this are were reluctant to see the 90¢ go the same way when they saw the Post Master was dithering on the portrait of Washington. Hence a request was sent to reconsider their wish to change the design to that used on the 3¢ value. Anyway, read on, and have pity on my Mr Zeveley who is merely the messenger in this process.
Philadelphia, June 4, I860. A. N. ZEVELY, Esq.,
Third Asst. P. M. General,
Washington, D. C.
Dear Sir:
...Your favor of the 1st inst. is duly received and its contents command our careful attention.
We are pleased to know that you have adopted the LILAC COLOR; and we think that we have finally obtained in accordance with your wishes, an. admirable and distinct shade, preserving a very marked difference between the new stamp and the Five-Cent rate. We inclose a specimen sheet, and advise you that we have put the plate to press so that no delay may occur. It is our sincere hope that this hue of lilac may meet with your approval.
Ten or twelve weeks, at least, would be required to get up a new stamp. Indeed, the unavoidable delay attendant on the completion of such a stamp would be so material that we feel no hesitation in making a suggestion which, if adopted, will aid the Department in an important manner to economise time. Some years ago, when it was designed to have carriers' stamps, a head of Franklin was engraved considerably less In size than that now used on the One Cent plate, while the general ornamentation and design differs considerably from this latter stamp. This carriers' stamp has never been used and presents therefore all
the advantages of one entirely new. The words "Carriers' Stamps" above and below (as per inclosed sample) could be taken out on a new die; "Thirty Cents, U. S. Postage," engraved in their place and various little changes made. New plates could thus be gotten ready in a fourth of the time necessary to design and finish an entirely original stamp. In recommendation of this suggestion we state respectfully that we do not think the Department will lose in anything, while it will economise time greatly, and thus accomplish an important object in putting the new stamp into circulation.
In connection with this subject let us also state that the Eagle carrier stamp has been comparatively unused; but one post office (at Cincinnati, Ohio) making occasional demands for a small supply. This stamp now almost useless—we have not printed it for years —could be altered and made to answer for the Fifteen-Cent rate. The distinct nature of its design renders the necessity of being printed in a new color less obvious.
We submit the buff color of the inclosed specimen as the best, perhaps, for the Thirty-Cent stamp. This, or a shade of this color, has never been used. We will be pleased to learn whether you deem it probable that there will be sufficient necessity for the new rates to authorize their adoption by the Department. The Thirty-Cent rate would be doubtless much more required than the Fifteen, as this latter can be so readily made up of a Ten and Five or a Twelve and Three-Cent.
Very respectfully, your obedient servents,
TOPPAN, CARPENTER & CO.
We inclose also a specimen sheet of the Eagle carrier stamp printed in orunKe. This stamp is not adapted to perforation in its present form. This could, however, be arranged. The size of the stamp must, in any case, be increased.
Very respectfully.
T. C. & CO.
Washington, D. C., June 8, 1860.
Messrs. Toppan, Carpenter & Co.,
Philadelphia, Pa. Gentlemen:
Your letter of the 4th Instant with Inclosures is received.
Please alter the "Carriers' Stamp" with the head of Franklin, by inserting the words—"Thirty Cents, U. S. Postage," with "various little changes," as proposed by you. Submit specimens of the impressions in the buff colors which you recommend, and the Postmaster General will then decide whether the stamp will answer.
'My estimate as to the probable demand for the "Twenty-four Cents" stamps was rather high, as it is hoped to reduce the British postage rates.
The "Fifteen Cents" stamps will not now be ordered.
Very respectfully, &c.. &c.,
A. X. ZEVELY,
Third Assistant P. M. General.
An Eagle Carrier Stamp in Buff
Philadelphia, June 10. I860.
A. N. ZEVELY, Esq.,
Third Asst. P. M. General,
Washington, D. C. Dear Sir:
Your favor of the Sth lust, is duly received and contents noted.
We have the honor to submit inclosed design for the Thirty Cents stamp for approbation of the Post Master General. We have sought to make it superior 1n beauty and finish to any of those now used, and we hope that we have succeeded. As soon as we have instructions to proceed with this design we will put it in hand and furnish impressions at the earliest practicable moment. It is our present belief that we
can use one of the positive colors now printed for this stamp and preserve at the same time such a marked difference in the appearance of the stamp as to prevent its being confounded with any of the others. We will be better able to decide this when the impressions are fairly contrasted.
Begging you to return this design if approved, we remain,
Very respectfully,
TOPPAN, CARPENTER & CO.
Washington, D. C., June 12, 1860.
Messrs. Toppan, Carpenter & Co..
Philadelphia, Pa. Gentlemen:
Your letter of 10th instant with design for the Thirty Cents postage stamp is received.
The Postmaster General approves the design and requests you to execute It and furnish specimen Impressions at the earliest practicable moment, the demand for the same being urgent.
It Is also considered necessary to have a stamp of the denomination of Ninety Cents—not only to suit that particular rate of postage, but to prepay packages to the amount, sometimes, of several dollars. For this stamp the Postmaster General desires the head of Washington, and I need not suggest to you the importance of expending upon it all the talents you can command in respect to designing, engraving and coloring. Please to say how soon specr imens may be expected. Also, report so soon as the Twenty-four-Cent and Thirty-Cent are ready.
Very respectfully, &c., &c.,
A. N. ZEVELY, Third Assistant P. M. General.
Philadelphia. June 13, 1860. A. N. ZEVELY,
Third Assistant P. M. General.
Washington. D. C.
Dear Sir:
Your favor of the 12th inst., covering design for the Thirty Cents stamp, is duly received.
We will immediately carry out your instructions touching this stamp, and you may depend on our most earnest efforts to furnish impressions at an early period. Your remarks concerning a new Ninety Cents stamp command our attention and we will endeavor to meet the wishes of the Postmaster General to his entire satisfaction. We have now, as you are aware, three distinct heads of Washington on the Three. Twelve and Twenty-four Cent denominations. Trumbull's picture of Washington is probably the best we can now obtain; and we will submit the new design as soon as possible to the Postmaster General. Of course, nothing will be spared to produce a new stamp equal in all respects, if not superior, to any now in use.
We are happy to say that three hundred and ninety thousand |':'.!>0,00(M stamps of the Twenty-four-Cent rate will be ready next Friday, loth inst.
Very respectfully, TOPPAN, CARPENTER & CO. June 21, I861
. Messrs. Toppan, Carpenter & Co.,
A. N. ZEVBLY. Philadelphia, June 25, 1860. A. N. ZEVELY, Esq.,
Third Asst. P. M. General,
Washington, D. C. Dear Sir:
Your favor of the 21st inst. is received and in reply thereto we would respectfully state .that we have no designs for postage stamps other than those formally adopted by the Department and now in circulation. The two carriers' stamps, viz.—head of Franklin and Eagle—were deemed unnecessary; and the former was not used, while the latter was used only as city postage in Cincinnati. Impressions of both of these were forwarded you on the 4th inst. Our original designs, having been prepared with much care and in due accordance with Instructions, were adopted for circulation, and hence there has been no occasion for drawings and engravings beyond these.
We have the honor to inclose an impression of the new Thirty Cents rate, which we hope will be found perfectly satisfactory. We deem it the handsomest stamp gotten up, while striking and valuable distinctions are shown from the others now printed. Indeed, we recommend earnestly the propriety and advantage of printing it in black, whereby the contrasts are made stronger and the beauty of the engraving better defined. The Twelve-Cent stamp now printed in black is so different in design that there can be little or no danger in confounding it with the inclosed specimen which we think unmistakable. We have taken the liberty of altering the original drawing somewhat, so as to introduce the numerals "30" at the bottom in place of the word "Cents": which change will, we sincerely hope, meet with the approbation of the Post Master General, as it is undoubtedly a great improvement, adding to the distinctive character of the stamp, while its artistic beauty and finish are enhanced. We hope to have a plate of this new denomination ready for the press early next week.
The design for the Ninety Cents stamp is progressing as rapidly as possible; and we hope, in the course of a few days, to submit it for examination and approval. Having the best talent and skill employed in the preparation, we shall be much disappointed if it will not favorably bear the most trying comparison with any stamps yet issued.
Very respectfully.
Your obedient servants.
TOPPAN. CARPENTER & CO.
First stage of design for the 90¢ (72E1)
Philadelphia, June 26, 1860. A. X. ZEVELY, Esq.,
Third Asst. P. M. General,
Washington, D. C. Dear Sir:
Upon further consideration of your favor of the 21st inst. we deem it possible that your inquiry has reference, perhaps to specimens of stamps of the same rales a.s those now used. Of these there are several which bear more or less resemblance to the designs adopted by the Department, but they were never taken up and transferred to plates. The original bed pieces, in a more or less finished condition, have been carefully packed away in our private vault, but we will, of course, be happy to furnish you with a few proofs of them taken as soon as possible.
We have now the honor to submit inclosed a proof impression of the finished new Thirty Cents stamp, of which an imperfect dry impression was sent you yesterday. It is certainly much handsomer and superior to any known to us, and we trust the Department will recognize therein our earnest desire and perfect ability to preserve the good opinion which it has been our happiness to obtain in the past.
Very respectfully,
TOPPAN, CARPENTER & CO.
June 27, I860.
Messrs. Toppan, Carpenter & Co.,
Philadelphia, Pa. Gentlemen:
Your letter of 26th instant with inclosed specimen of a "Thirty Cents" stamp is received.
I have submitted the new stamp to the Postmaster General and have the pleasure to state that it meets with his approval.
Please notify me when you will be ready to fill orders. Very respectfully,
Your obedient servant,
A. N. ZEVELY.
Philadelphia. June 28, 1860. A. N. ZEVELY, Esq.,
Third Asst. P. M. General,
Washington, D. C. Dear Sir:
Your favor of the 27th is duly received and we are very happy to learn that the Postmaster General approves of the new Thirty Cents stamp. We are now transferring a plate of this denomination and hope to submit a proof impression for examination on the 2nd prox. The Postmaster General can then decide upon our recommendation that the stamp be printed in black.
Inclosed we have the honor to send your four impressions of designs originally made for the Three-cent plate, but laid aside for that now in circulation. We think the large head of Washington very fine and striking. The whole size of the engraving is larger than the size adopted; but the oval wherein the head is engraved is of the same dimensions as that inclosing the Franklin head of the One-Cent rate. The other head with the three different frames, was objected to, if we remember rightly, on the score of its smallness. You will understand that no plates are transferred of these designs; nor are these impressions as perfect as first proofs. They may serve your purpose, however, as expressed in your favor of the 21st inst. In this hope -we remain,
Very respectfully,
Your obedient servants,
TOPPAN, CARPENTER & CO.
July 3, I860.
Messrs. Toppan, Carpenter & Co.,
Philadelphia, Pa. Gentlemen:
The Postmaster General, relying upon the distinct design for the Thirty Cents stamp as obviating the necessity of a distinctive color, and approves your suggestion to print them in black.
The chief objection to this color arises from the greater difficulty in cancelling them.
Very respectfully,
Your obedient servant.
A. X. ZEVELY.
Philadelphia, July 11, I860. A. N. ZEVELY. Esq..
Third Asst. P. M. General,
Washington, D. C. Dear Sir:
We are reluctantly obliged to stop printing the Thirty-Cent stamp until further advice from the Postmaster General. We find that the objection to black, arising from the difficulty of canceling the stamp, is likely to prove more serious than at first apprehended; and in order to give you a definite idea of this difficulty we inclose a half sheet of the denomination specified. The body of color is deeper and more generally diffused than is advantageous for cancellation.
\Ve believe that the inclosed buff tint could be more advantageously printed than any hue of yellow, and canceling such a stamp would be easy and thorough. We have printed already a large number in black but we will readily submit to the loss in case the Postmaster General sees proper to order the buff color in its place. In such a case we can readily print the Xinety-Cent in
black if it be acceptable, as we suppose the use of this rate will be comparatively limited.
Very respectfully,
TOPPAN, CARPENTER & CO.
Philadelphia, July 9, I860. A. N. ZEVELY, Esq.,
Third Asst. P. M. General,
Washington, D. C. Sir:
We have the honor to inclose a proof impression of the new .Ninety Cents stamp, which is respectfully submitted for the approval of the Postmaster General.
We have sought to present as striking a difference in this design from the others as could be well introduced in a drawing of such certain fixed dimensions; but, aside from the novel frame, the style of the head is very dissimilar from any yet engraved by us.
While we sincerely believe that it would be very difficult to surpass so beautiful a specimen of the engraving art, we have, by unremitting efforts, been enabled to present the stamp at a much earlier hour than we had originally deemed possible.
If the stamp should happily meet with approval, we will at once transfer a plate and print it in various colors to be submitted for selection.
Very respectfully,
Your obedient servants,
TOPPAN, CARPENTER & CO.
July 11, I860.
Messrs. Toppan, Carpenter & Co.,
Philadelphia, Pa. Sirs:
I have submitted to the Postmaster General the proof impression of the new Ninety Cents stamp (enclosed with your letter of 9th instant), and while approving of the general style and finish —as presenting a striking difference from other stamps— and also presuming that the likeness of Washington may be accurately copied from portraits taken in early life, yet, he thinks it would not be generally recognized and would, therefore, prefer the features wihch are more familiar to the public —similar to those in the Three-Cents stamps.
The Postmaster General would be glad to see preserved the "dress" portion of the engraving. He also authorizes me to say that he would regret subjecting you to much expense in changing the face, as suggested, and that he hopes it may possibly be effected without engraving anew the entire stamp.
Could you prominently introduce the figures "90" and also similarly change the "Twenty-four" Cents stamps'.'
Very respectfully,
Your obedient servant,
A. N. ZEVELY.
A later essay of the 90¢, referred to in the correspondance (72-E7f)
Third Asst. P. M. General,
Washington, D. C. Sir:
Your favor of the lltli inst. is duly received and contents noted.
We regret exceedingly to learn that the Postmaster General does not entirely approve of the new Ninety Cents stamp; and we beg to submit a few words in explanation of the strong reasons which induced us to select this design. The head of Washington is copied most accurately from Trumbull's celebrated picture, and when we inform you that the portrait was first reduced by the daguerrotype process and then engraved, you will at once understand that it is impossible to obtain a more perfect facsimile of the original than we have made. This renowned portrait is, as you are no doubt aware, esteemed one of the finest likenesses painted of Washington; and exhibits him in the character which was emphatically his peculiar glory—that of Commander of the American forces. There is probably no portrait of this illustrious man more generally known and copied throughout the country than this of Trumbull—oil copies, mezzo-tints, &c., in variety attest to its general acceptance.
Detail of Trumball Painting of George Washington
We assure the Postmaster General most emphatically that we were principally induced to select this design in consequence of its being not only an authentic likeness, but one very familiar to the public at large. We suggest respectfully that the head on the Three Cents stamp owes its recognition to the immense circulation which the stamp itself has throughout the country. The original is even now, we sincerely believe, known but to a limited number of artists and amateurs. It is therefore strongly urged that the Ninety Cents design, copied from a well known picture, will have little or no difficulty in being at once designated.
We think that the Postmaster General, upon examining the Three Cents stamp, will immediately perceive the palpable incongruity, nay, the impossibility of adding the "dress" of the Ninety Cents design—viz., equalettes, &c., to a mere profile, medallion view of Washington. It would be certainly a very unhappy combination of the modern uniform and the antique bust. We regret to say that the alteration suggested would necessitate the engraving of -an entirely new stamp. Any change would mar the beauty and general harmony of the design.
The 3¢ design being referred to (#65)
Although we have been subjected necessarily to a very heavy expense in preparing this stamp, we would feel much more hesitation in respectfully and earnestly urging a reconsideration of the Postmaster General's views, if our own strong opinion in favor of the stamp were not powerfully supported by the first artists who have had an opportunity of examining the proof impression. We trust therefore that we may be acquitted of any mere personally selfish interest when we submit the matter once more to the Postmaster General.
If, in your question touching the Twenty-four Cents stamp, you desire the introduction of the figures "24" in the design, we reply that they may be entered in ovals in the corners of the framework. This will necessitate a new die, and an entirely new plate, while we think the appearance of the stamps will not be at all improved. We would moreover state respectfully that to prepare fully to meet the large demand for these stamps, amounting to several millions as you conjectured, we have already printed over four millions. The printing has been immediately stopped on receipt of your favor of yesterday (llth inst. t, but the demand has been so small that our present supply will suffice for a very long period should no increase occur. If the Postmaster General alters the stamp now. the large amount on hand will be a severe and entire loss to us.
The 24¢ with the ovals added 70-E4b
We have the honor to inclose a more carefully dried proof of the NinetyCent stamp.
Very respectfully,
Your obedient servants,
TOPPAN. CARPENTER & CO.
Philadelphia, Pa. Sirs:
Yours of the llth instant is received.
It is well to adopt the buff instead of the black color for the Thirty-Cent stamp, though I hope you may be able to infuse a more lively tint than appears in the specimen submitted by you.
The black will not do for the Ninety Cent stamp. Can you not prepare a delicate pink which would look well, and be at once dlstingiushable from all other colors in use?
After considering your letter of yesterday, the Postmaster General withdraws his objections to the likeness of Washington in the Ninety-Cent stamp, although still inclined to differ with you as to its popular recognition.
He (the Postmaster) did not suggest (as you say) "adding the 'dress' of the Ninety Cents design by epaulettes, &c., to a mere profile medallion view of Washington," but simply the preservation of a likeness to that of the Three-Cent stamps. Very respectfully,
Your obedient servant,
A. N. ZIVELY.
P. S.—Unless the demand should materially increase, do not strike off any more of the Twenty-four Cents stamps at present.
A. N. Z.
Philadelphia, July 14, 1860. A. N. ZEVELY, Esq.,
Third Asst. P. M. General,
Washington, D. C. Sir:
'We have the honor to acknowledge your favor of the 13th inst.
Your instructions with regard to a more lively tint of buff than that submitted to you have our best attention.
We will also endeavor to produce a pink such as you recommend for the Ninety Cents stamp. The principal difficulty in these delicate shades lies in their fugitive nature, and a color which looks well in printing fades sometimes quickly in drying and exposure. Still we believe your wishes can be satisfactorily met.
We are very happy to learn that the Postmaster General has kindly reconsidered and withdrawn his former objections to the Ninety Cents design, for we believe most sincerely that it embraces every requisite of beauty, accuracy and appropriateness which he so justly requires. A plate shall be prepared at once and samples of colors submitted.
Very respectfully,
Your obedient servants,
TOPPAN, CARPENTER & CO
hiladelphia, July 16, 1860.
A. N. ZEVELY, Esq.,
Third Asst. P. M. General,
Washington. D. C. Sir:
We have the honor to inclose twenty stamps of the Thirty Cents rate printed in the orange buff which we purpose using henceforth if approved by the Postmaster General.
You have desired a more lively tint than that submitted by us on the 11th inst., and we have found that all yellow buffs are open to the objection which arises from a want of brilliancy and effect. This orange buff prints clearly, as you may observe, and, while distinct from both the red and brown stamps, does not resemble too much the ordinary yellow tint of envelopes. It can also be readily effaced.
Very respectfully,
Your obedient servants,
TOPPAN, CARPENTER & CO.
Post Office Department,
July 18, 1860. Messrs. TOPPAN. CARPENTER & CO.,
 
The original black color and the later buff color that was described as not being lively
Philadelphia, Pa. Gentlemen:
Your letter of the 16th inst. with enclosures is received.
Relying much on your own good taste and judgment as to colors, the Postmaster General approves the "orange buff" which you propose for the Thirty-Cent stamps and begs you will hasten their delivery. Very respectfully,
Your obedient servant,
A. N. ZIVELY,
Third Assistant P. M. General.
The final orange-buff color
Philadelphia, Pa. Gentlemen:
Your letter of the 16th inst. with enclosures is received.
Relying much on your own good taste and judgment as to colors, the Postmaster General approves the "orange buff" which you propose for the Thirty-Cent stamps and begs you will hasten their delivery. Very respectfully,
Your obedient servant,
A. N. ZIVELY,
Third Assistant P. M. General.
Philadelphia, July 30, I860.
A. N. ZEVELY, Esq.,
Third Asst. P. M. General,
Washington, D. C. Dear Sir:
I have the honor to inform you that we will be prepared to deliver the new Thirty Cents stamp tomorrow to the amount of two hundred and eighty thousand, and henceforth as the Department may require.
We have been earnestly endeavoring to obtain a pink tint for the "Ninety" Celits and trust to be able to forward you tomorrow a satisfactory sample. This color is exceedingly difficult to get to print well.
Very respectfully,
TOPPAN, CARPENTER & CO. -
Philadelphia, August 1, 1860. A. N. ZEVELY, Esq.,
Third Asst. P. M. General,
Washington, D. C. Sir:
We have the honor to inclose samples of colors marked from No. 1 to No. 9, inclusive. The impressions are taken on stamp paper and present the appearance which they would have in circulation. Proofs on India paper would be. of course, much finer and more brilliant and might therefore mislead you to expect the same delicacy and brightness of hue in the circulating stamp.
We have spared no effort to produce a good pink, and Nos. 1 and 2 are the best obtained. You will observe that these light colors do not give the effect which a deeper tint will present. We suggest Nos. 1, 2, 6, 7 and 8 as moat worthy of examination. No. 7 (the blue color) is the handsomest of them all and gives the most decided effect to the engraving. Though a blue, it differs considerably in appearance from the One-Cent stamp, while the form and character of the stamp itself are utterly distinct.
We will be pleased to hear from you at your early convenience.
Very respectfully,
Your obedient servants.
TOPPAN, CARPENTER & CO.
Third Asst. P. M. General,
Washington, D. C. Sir:
Your favor of the 3d inst. is duly received and its contents have our attention.
We are pleased to learn that the Postmaster General has adopted the blue color for the Ninety-Cent stamps. In our opinion it is preferable to all the others. The introduction of the figures 24 in the stamp of that denomination can be effected, necessitating, however, a new die and plate. Though this change would be attended with considerable expense, our principal loss will be in the large number of these stamps, amounting to more than three millions, which we have printed in readiness for a supposed heavy demand. We believe that our contract with the Department calls upon us to furnish any new stamp without cost, and we are prepared to obey our instructions which you deem advisable to give touching this stamp. Our desire is to give entire satisfaction.
We will be prepared to furnish about 300,000 Ninety Cents stamp
Very respectfully,
Your obedient servants, TOPPAN, CARPENTER & CO. IN CONCLUSION.
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