So why should I write a book a stamp that is arguably the most ever written about? Well, you should take another look at the question to find a logical answer. Someone needs to compile an update and augment the vast amount of material published to date. We need to leverage digital advancements and the new research available. Most information written on the subject is a bit dated, published from 1909-1970. Today we have vastly improved resources that allow for a more graphical approach to the subject. So, I decided to provide a reprise, or revised report with a graphical approach to what is known. Let us bring Dr. Chase and company into this century with some personal flair and touches. Please note that many scholars and authors within the philatelic community are credited for the research and theories found within this presentation. I am merely a scholar, author and researcher that is building upon their years of hard work and dedication. Reporting the advancements and progresses made, I will disseminate on the philatelic postal history since it was last compiled or reported. It should be fully understood that this report is not a complete treatise on the subject. Similar to other work, our studies will require updating as new discoveries and corrections are introduced. I have made an effort to credit key research advancements of individuals and organizations where known by myself or when provided by others (see chapters 29-30 for a partial listing of reference materials, they are credited for the research and dedication on this subject. Most have been instrumental in providing data used for this project. Unfortunately for all students and scholars' of the 1851 stamps the records of the manufacturing firm for these stamps are reported as "destroyed by fire." Government records on this subject is also very limited. This has hindered research investigators for many years. It has been suggested that the 1851 3cents Washington Issue is the most popular of all US stamps and argued by others as the most collected stamp of all time. It is in the opinion of this author, to be the most interesting stamp ever researched, collected and traded. The best part of collecting stamps is that you can tailor your collecting to any degree of simplicity or complexity that you so desire. Almost any type of ephemera can be tied into a stamp collection as complementary artifacts enhancing presentation and the historical value. I have specimens, archives, collections or other supporting materials that have been helpful or inspirational to the research conducted for this project and they can be viewed and downloaded. They're available at my website, http: //www.rvv.com/collections. I have also created exhibits and archives intended as a study guide to this book, especially targeted to philatelic scholars. I think that all levels of collectors will find them enjoyable. This study guide on philatelic research and other material can be found at http: //www.rvv.com/jpcohen_publishing. All of my websites will be made available to everyone free of charge, as long as I can afford to host the