Today is September 1st. For stamp collectors and music lovers, this day marks a cultural milestone worth remembering. Every time I think of this day, I inevitably think of a stamp. Yes, it’s the commemorative stamp issued by the United States Postal Service on this day in 1994 —a tribute to the legendary singer Ethel Waters
Ethel Waters stamp facts
The Ethel Waters stamp was issued September 1, 1994, as a 29-cent Black Heritage issue. Put the direct issue identity, denomination, format and design evidence before the biography, and link the postal source so the facts can be checked.
Verified facts for this topic
Official USPS records verify these issue points: Jan Matzeliger (September 15, 1991), Ethel Waters (September 1, 1994), Count Basie (September 11, 1996), Josh White (June 26, 1998), Roy Wilkins (2001), Barbara Jordan (September 16, 2011) and Allen Toussaint (January 30, 2025).
Her voice outlasts time.
The name Ethel Waters may be unfamiliar to many people today, but in her time, she was practically synonymous with breaking boundaries. As one of the first African-American artists to break racial barriers, her voice not only soothed an era but also shone brightly on the Broadway stage. I’ve been looking through some old material and discovered that when she sang “His Eye Is on the Sparrow,” the audience was undivided—a feat truly remarkable in that era. It’s no wonder that this commemorative stamp (Ethel Waters) is, for many longtime music fans, more than just postage; it’s like a miniature medal of courage.
Why September 1, 1994?
The choice of this date is no accident. By the late 20th century, American culture was gradually recognizing the historical contributions of African-American artists. Ethel Waters, once hailed as a “voice that transcends time,” was officially enshrined in American memory in 1994 when her image graced a postage stamp. This was both a tribute from the USPS and a gentle reminder to the public: Don’t forget those who have long shaped the very fabric of our culture.
She on the stamp
As a collector, I find the design of this Ethel Waters stamp incredibly symbolic, especially compared to other similar music commemorative stamps in my collection. Her smile is so vivid, as if she’s about to burst into the classic song “Stormy Weather.” The background color is warm and elegant, preserving the weight of history while exuding a warmth that invites lingering contemplation. Compared to some music stamps with overly vibrant colors or rigid compositions, this one strikes a perfect balance between solemnity and vividness. For true collectors of the USPS music stamp series, this is not just a must-have, but a miniature work of art that captures the soul of music and the warmth of history.
Memory and inheritance
Nearly thirty years later, this stamp is still treasured by many. It reminds us that true art never goes out of style. Ethel Waters’ legacy is more than just the sound of her recordings; it’s a story of courage, talent, and perseverance.
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Sources and update note
Use the linked primary record for the exact issue, rule or current condition. Prices, availability and platform features can change and should be checked at the time of use.