Curated 1920 Pilgrim Tercentenary Mint Set - Engraved US Commemoratives - Scott #548, #549 & #550

Scott #548–550 Mint Set – 1920 Pilgrim Tercentenary Commemoratives – Historic U.S. Stamp Trio

This finely curated trio of 1920 U.S. commemorative postage stamps (Scott #548–550) marks the 300th anniversary of the Pilgrims’ landing at Plymouth — a cornerstone event in American history and a beloved subject in U.S. philately. Issued to honor faith, courage, and self-governance, the Pilgrim Tercentenary issue showcases some of the finest engraved work from the Bureau of Engraving and Printing’s golden era.

Each stamp features a distinct historic scene based on celebrated paintings of the Pilgrim story:

• Scott #548 – 1¢ Green “The Landing of the Pilgrims” – Adapted from Henry S. Sandham’s painting, this engraving shows the Pilgrims coming ashore at Plymouth, symbolizing faith and new beginnings.
• Scott #549 – 2¢ Carmine Rose “The Signing of the Compact” – After Edwin White’s artwork, this design depicts the Mayflower Compact, often called the first framework of self-government in America.
• Scott #550 – 5¢ Deep Blue “The Landing of the Pilgrims” – Engraved from Edgar Parker's painting “The Pilgrims Going to Church,” this vignette presents a solemn landing scene with Plymouth Rock and the Mayflower in the distance.

Condition

Mint collector-grade examples with vivid color, sharp impression, and integrity. Some may show light hinging or minor gum disturbance typical of the period. The photograph is representative of the sets available; each offering is of comparable quality and appearance.

Collectible Significance

A cornerstone set for collectors of early 20th-century U.S. commemoratives and engraved issues. The Pilgrim Tercentenary series combines historical symbolism, superb craftsmanship, and profound cultural importance — a must-have for students of American postal history and classic BEP production.

More About This Item

Issued on December 21, 1920, at Plymouth, Massachusetts, these stamps embody a nation honoring its origins through artful engraving and patriotic design. The set remains a timeless representation of the craft and ideals that defined the golden age of U.S. commemorative stamps — a meaningful addition to any advanced philatelic collection.

Multiple curated sets available, each carefully selected for color strength, clarity of impression, and overall collector appeal, true to the examples pictured.