1950 U.S. Supreme Court Building Stamp

The Story Behind This Stamp

In 1950, the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) issued a 3-cent stamp (standard first-class rate) featuring the Supreme Court Building.

The stamp commemorated the 15th anniversary of the Supreme Court Building (completed in 1935) and reinforced the symbolism of the U.S. judicial system.

Stamp Design

• The design featured a frontal view of the building, highlighting its Corinthian columns
• Designed by the Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP) based on architectural photographs.

Historical Significance

• First judicial focus: It was the first U.S. stamp dedicated solely to the judiciary.
• Cold War messaging: The stamp promoted the U.S. ideal of "a government of laws, not men" against Soviet authoritarianism.
• Architectural symbolism: The building embodied judicial independence, and the stamp amplified its iconic status.