Vintage Black Cinema

On July 16, 2008, in Newark, New Jersey, the Postal Service™ issued 42–cent Vintage Black Cinema commemorative stamps. The stamps were designed by Carl T. Herrman of Carlsbad, California.


Vivid reminders of a bygone era, these vintage movie posters highlight various facets of the African–American cultural experience as represented in early film. Whether spotlighting the talents of entertainment icons or documenting changing social attitudes and expectations, these posters now serve a greater purpose than publicity and promotion. They have become invaluable pieces of history, preserving memories of cultural phenomena that otherwise might have been forgotten.

Movies commemorated include Black and Tan, The Sport of the Gods, Princess Tam-Tam, Caldonia and Hallelujah.