Scott 564: The 12¢ Grover Cleveland Stamp of the Fourth Bureau Issue
Scott 564: The 12¢ Grover Cleveland Stamp of the Fourth Bureau Issue
Among the many classic stamps issued by the United States during the early twentieth century, the 12¢ Grover Cleveland stamp remains a favorite among collectors. Featuring the distinctive portrait of America's only president to serve two non-consecutive terms, this stamp combines historical significance, attractive design, and enduring appeal. Whether discovered in an inherited collection, purchased at a stamp show, or acquired as part of a larger lot, the 12¢ Cleveland issue offers collectors an accessible entry into one of the most popular periods of American philately.
Who Was Grover Cleveland?
Before examining the stamp itself, it helps to understand the individual portrayed on it. Grover Cleveland served as the 22nd and 24th President of the United States, making him the only president in American history to serve two separate, non-consecutive terms.
Born in 1837, Cleveland built a reputation for honesty, fiscal conservatism, and political independence. His straightforward approach to government earned him respect from supporters and opponents alike. By the early twentieth century, Cleveland had become one of the most recognizable figures in American political history, making him a natural choice for inclusion in the nation's definitive postage stamp series.
His appearance on U.S. postage helped preserve his legacy for generations of Americans who encountered his portrait while mailing letters, documents, and parcels across the country.
The Fourth Bureau Issue Era
The 12¢ Grover Cleveland stamp belongs to the famous Fourth Bureau Issue, a series produced during the 1920s. Bureau Issues are among the most collected U.S. stamps because they bridge the gap between classic nineteenth-century stamps and the more modern designs familiar today.
These issues were produced by the Bureau of Engraving and Printing, which was responsible for creating U.S. currency and postage stamps. The Bureau's engravers were known for their detailed craftsmanship, and that quality is evident in the Cleveland design.
The Fourth Bureau Issue featured numerous presidents, statesmen, and historical figures. Collectors often assemble complete sets, making individual stamps like the Cleveland issue an important component of larger collections.
Design Characteristics
One reason collectors appreciate the 12¢ Cleveland stamp is its elegant design. The stamp presents a finely engraved portrait of Grover Cleveland facing left within an oval frame.
Key design elements include:
- A detailed engraved portrait
- The words "United States Postage" surrounding the image
- The denomination of 12 cents displayed prominently in the lower corners
- Decorative border elements characteristic of Bureau Issue stamps
- Rich reddish-violet or plum coloration
The engraving work demonstrates the exceptional artistry common to American stamp production during the early twentieth century. Even today, collectors often remark on the sharp detail visible under magnification.
Identifying Scott 564
The stamp illustrated here is identified as Scott #564, a 12¢ Grover Cleveland issue from the famous Fourth Bureau Issue series. Produced during the 1920s, Scott 564 is one of the more recognizable higher-denomination stamps of the era and remains a popular addition to presidential, Bureau Issue, and United States stamp collections.
Collectors can identify Scott 564 by several key characteristics that distinguish it from other issues featuring American presidents.
Denomination
The most obvious identifying feature is the 12-cent denomination, displayed prominently in both lower corners of the stamp. During its period of use, the 12¢ value commonly paid for heavier mail pieces, business correspondence, parcel post services, and certain special postal rates.
Portrait Design
At the center of the stamp is a finely engraved portrait of President Grover Cleveland, the only U.S. president to serve two non-consecutive terms in office. His likeness is surrounded by an ornate frame bearing the inscription "United States Postage," a hallmark of the Bureau Issue designs.
Color
Scott 564 is known for its attractive brown violet coloration, giving the stamp a rich and distinctive appearance. The deep color and detailed engraving make it one of the more visually appealing presidential stamps of the period.
Perforations
Another important identification characteristic is its Perf 11 perforations. Advanced collectors often use perforation gauges when confirming specific Scott numbers, and the perforation measurement is one of the key traits that helps distinguish Scott 564 from related issues.
Collecting Blocks of Four
While single examples of Scott 564 are frequently encountered, multiples often attract additional collector interest. The example shown here survives as a mint block of four, preserving the original sheet format in which the stamps were printed and distributed.
The center margin intersection visible in the block adds further appeal. Such positional pieces help collectors better understand the production methods used by the Bureau of Engraving and Printing and provide a more striking display than individual stamps.
Condition and Collector Demand
Although Scott 564 is not considered a major rarity, collector demand remains steady for attractive examples. Factors such as centering, gum condition, perforation quality, and whether the stamp is offered as a single or multiple all influence desirability within the marketplace.
Well-preserved blocks, particularly those displaying margin intersections or other sheet characteristics, continue to be sought by collectors of classic United States postage stamps.
Why Collectors Continue to Seek Cleveland Stamps
The 12¢ Grover Cleveland issue has remained popular for decades because it appeals to multiple areas of collecting.
Presidential collectors appreciate its connection to an important American leader.
Bureau Issue enthusiasts value it as part of a larger series.
Postal historians view it as a reflection of changing mail rates and postal practices.
General collectors enjoy its classic appearance and relative affordability.
Unlike some rare stamps that remain out of reach for many hobbyists, the Cleveland issue provides historical significance without requiring a large budget.
Building a Collection Around Bureau Issues
Collectors who enjoy the Cleveland stamp often expand into other Bureau Issue stamps featuring:
- George Washington
- Abraham Lincoln
- Thomas Jefferson
- Benjamin Franklin
- Andrew Jackson
- Theodore Roosevelt
Assembling a representative group of Bureau Issue stamps can be both educational and rewarding. The series showcases some of the most influential figures in American history while highlighting advances in stamp production and engraving.
Many collectors begin with individual stamps and gradually build complete sets over time.
Preserving Vintage U.S. Stamps
Proper storage is essential for maintaining condition and long-term value.
Collectors should:
- Store stamps in acid-free albums or stock books
- Avoid excessive humidity
- Keep stamps away from direct sunlight
- Handle valuable examples with stamp tongs
- Avoid using tape, glue, or adhesives
A little care can help preserve these historical artifacts for future generations.
👉 Collectors interested in adding a Scott 564 block to their collection can view the example featured in this article through our Etsy shop.
Final Thoughts
The 12¢ Grover Cleveland stamp is more than just a piece of old postage. It represents an important era in American postal history, honors a unique president, and showcases the exceptional engraving work that made Bureau Issue stamps famous among collectors.
Whether found as a single example or as an attractive block of four, the stamp continues to hold a special place in U.S. philately. Its combination of historical significance, classic design, and collector appeal ensures that it remains a worthwhile addition to any vintage stamp collection.
For collectors who enjoy exploring America's postal past, the 12¢ Grover Cleveland issue serves as an excellent reminder that even everyday postage can become a fascinating piece of history.
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