October 29, 2001, a 34 cent commemorative postage stamp honoring, Harry Houdini, was unveiled at a special ceremony on the stage of the Lance Burton Theatre at the Monte Carlo Resort and Casino. This was just two days before the 75th anniversary of Houdini’s death.
Credit: December 2001 M-U-M
Standing in front of the poster of the commemorative Harry Houdini postage stamp to be released July 2002, are Las Vegas Postmaster, Thomas E. Peterson, Lance Burton, and actor Tony Curtis, who fastens Burton in a straitjacket in preparation for his upside-down escape.
Credit: December 2001 M-U-M
Above, Burton wriggles free as Peterson looks on.
Credit: Magic July 2002
George Hardeen poses before 1911 poster used for design of stamp honoring his granduncle.
Joe M. Notaro Collection
The 34 cent stamp appeared on the December 2001 cover of M-U-M.
Joe M. Notaro Collection
And it appeared on merch, like lapel pins; I have 2 different types in my collection.
Joe M. Notaro Collection
But by the date of issue on July 3, 2002 postage rates had increased.
A 34 cent stamp…I remember buying a sheet of this Houdini for President stamp when it was released. It’s all too expensive and out of control now. I pay all of my bills online. Can’t remember the last time I stamped and mailed a letter.