On today’s date in 1966, Walt Disney died after complications due to lung cancer. At the age of 65, Walt was a co-founder of The Company, esteemed animator, producer, director, and screenwriter. He was the dreamer behind the beloved Disney brand that led to the creation of various amusement parks and recognition worldwide.
To commemorate Walt’s life and vast accomplishments the United States Postal Authority created the first Disney stamp on September 11th, 1968. The day was officially named “Walt Disney Day”.
The 6-cent stamp was designed by Paul Wenzel and Bob Moore. The stamp showcases a portrait of Walt Disney, various “It’s a Small World” characters and the iconic Sleeping Beauty Castle. Due to copyright limitations, the stamp was unable to feature any of the Disney cartoon characters.
Since the creation of the first Walt Disney stamp, a vast number of character-based stamps and collections have been produced, including a Canadian stamp that features Walt Disney World.
In October 1996, Canada Post raised controversy over a stamp featuring Winnie-the-Pooh and Walt Disney World.
WINNIE THE POOH AT DISNEY
In October 1996, Canada Post raised controversy over a stamp featuring Winnie-the-Pooh and Walt Disney World. In an attempt to highlight Canadian history, and the origins of Winnie-the-Pooh, a series of stamps were produced.
The controversial stamp featured Pooh sitting in front of Cinderella Castle and listed “Winnie the Pooh at Walt Disney World, 1996”. Stamp collectors were upset that the joint promotion may have been too commercial and feared it would lead to more logos and branding appearing on future productions.