U.S. Notes Cartoon Contest, May 11, 2015

The year 2015 marks the 150th anniversary of the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln. There is endless speculation as to how the post Civil War period might have been different had Lincoln been able to complete his second term.

As with all politicians, he was not universally loved, but a case can be made that even many of his enemies respected his intellect, his homespun wisdom and his principled actions on behalf of the fractured nation.

What would Lincoln think about the United States today? It is a serious question, but one that his fabled sense of humor might deal with in a less than ponderous manner.

The May cartoon caption contest stamp is the 42¢ Lincoln as President stamp (Scott 4383) from the 2009 Lincoln issue.

Put yourself under the stovepipe hat he often wore and tell me what you think he might be saying if he could view the state of the nation today.

You also can address the state of philately, historical events during the years since 1865, how Lincoln has become an icon of presidential greatness, or anything else that appeals to you about life in these United States.

The important thing is to use your sense of humor, because entries with a humorous twist have the best chance of winning a prize.

Put your entry (or entries) on a postcard if possible and send it to me, John Hotchner, Cartoon Contest, care ofLinn's Editor, Box 29, Sidney, OH 45365; or e-mail it to jmhstamp@verizon.net. Be sure to include your mailing address.

For each winner, the prize will be the book Linn's Stamp Identifier, published by Linn's (a retail value of $12.99), or a 13-week subscription to Linn's (a new subscription or an extension). To be considered for a prize, entries must reach Linn's no later than May 25.

Why not enter now while you're thinking about it?