1923 8c Radiator & Propeller

The design for the 1923 8c Radiator & Propeller stamp (#C4) was based on a photograph of the radiator and propeller of a De Haviland plane. The stamp was issued on August 15, 1923, at the American Philatelic Society annual convention in Washington DC.

The history of airmail dates back to the early 20th century when aviation was still in its infancy. The first official airmail route in the United States was established on May 15, 1918, running between Washington, D.C., and New York City. This pioneering route marked a significant shift in how mail was delivered, as it allowed for much faster transportation compared to traditional methods like trains and boats. Charles Lindbergh, who would later become famous for his transatlantic flight, was one of the early pilots involved in these flights, helping to demonstrate the potential of air mail.

The early air mail service faced numerous challenges. Pilots flew small, open-cockpit airplanes, often navigating through rough weather and difficult terrain. They relied on maps and their instincts to find their way, as navigation technology was not as advanced as it is today. Despite these obstacles, the service quickly gained popularity. By the 1920s, a network of routes was established across the country, connecting major cities and allowing quicker delivery of letters and packages.

One of the most significant developments was the transcontinental airmail route, which stretched from New York City to San Francisco. This ambitious route enabled the postal service to deliver mail across the entire country in just a few days. It played a crucial role in promoting air travel and helped to build public trust in the safety and reliability of flying. As airmail continued to expand, it transformed not only the postal system but also the way businesses operated, allowing for faster communication and commerce.

Today, air mail is an integral part of global communication, largely thanks to the innovations and risks taken by those early aviators. Their efforts laid the groundwork for the modern air mail system we rely on today, connecting people across vast distances in a matter of hours.

References:
The stamp is part of the author’s collection
"The History of Air Mail." Smithsonian National Postal Museum.
"A Brief History of Airmail." U.S. Postal Service.
"The Birth of Airmail." National Geographic.
https://www.mysticstamp.com/c4-1923-8c-radiator-propeller-dark-green/