By DB Sikes
Card Subject Overview
Nathan Hale (1755–1776) remains one of America’s most enduring Revolutionary War symbols. A schoolteacher turned soldier, Hale volunteered for a covert mission in 1776, was captured by the British, and famously declared, “I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country” before his execution. His sacrifice made him an icon of patriotic devotion, though within the T68 Heroes of History set he is considered part of the Tier 3 – Notable Supporting Cast rather than a marquee figure.
The card portrays Hale holding books in the foreground, set against a pastoral backdrop, a reminder of his scholarly beginnings. His inclusion reflects the set’s balance of American heroes with international historical figures, making him a secondary yet meaningful figure for collectors.
“I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country.”
– Nathan Hale
Card Checklist
✅ Known backs and variations secured:
- Royal Bengals (Factory 2)
- Royal Bengals (Factory 17)
- Miners Extra (Regular) PSA 1
- Miners Extra (Short)
- Natural Leaf Scrap (excellent condition; projects PSA/SGC 4–5)
- Pan Handle Scrap (Powder Blue, Medium/Steel Blue)
This Nathan Hale run is particularly notable for the Natural Leaf Scrap example in unusually strong condition, as well as the full representation of Pan Handle Scrap shades, now recognized as distinct and collectible variants.
Rarity Tier & Difficulty Level
Nathan Hale is a Tier 3 – Notable Supporting Cast subject. While not among the set’s marquee names, his Revolutionary War ties make him attractive to American history collectors. Completing a full back run is moderately difficult, Royal Bengals and Miners Extra are straightforward, but the Natural Leaf Scrap and full Pan Handle Scrap shade run require diligence.
Acquisition Journey
The PSA-graded Hale provides condition tracking and documentation. Both Factory 2 and Factory 17 Royal Bengals examples show the subtle tonal differences expected of their respective print runs. A mid-grade Natural Leaf Scrap was a highlight acquisition, as so few survive above Poor/Fair.
The most recent breakthrough was securing two of the three Pan Handle Scrap blue shades (Powder and Steel). While these cover the more attainable sides of the Scrap spectrum, the elusive Dark Navy remains missing from this run. The hunt for this rarest shade is ongoing, with the goal of completing a confirmed three-blue variation lineup for Hale.
The Shades of Blue: Pan Handle Scrap Back Run
Research confirms three repeatable shades of blue for Pan Handle Scrap backs, tied to production variables rather than fading:
- Dark Navy (Rarest) – almost black under neutral light; not yet secured for Hale.
- Medium/Steel Blue (Less Common) – mid-tone, present in the Hale collection.
- Powder Blue (Most Common) – pale and airy, also present in the Hale collection.
For Hale, the two secured shades already establish him as a strong Pan Handle Scrap subject in Series 1. The ongoing search for the Dark Navy example will be the milestone that completes his back spectrum.
Printing & Distribution Notes
Hale’s presence across all major back types illustrates his cultural significance in early 20th-century America. The Royal Bengals from Factory 17 display the warmer lithographic tones typical of that press run, while the Natural Leaf Scrap in stronger condition is a rarity in itself.
Research Notes
Hale’s card reinforces how supporting-cast subjects can still carry weight in shaping collector challenges. Recognition of the three Pan Handle blue shades ensures that Hale will be pursued beyond his nominal tier status.
Personal Reflection
Assembling Hale’s run has shown why Tier 3 subjects can still be compelling collector projects. Securing both Powder and Steel Pan Handle Scrap backs already strengthens his place in the Pan Handle study, but the missing Dark Navy remains the white whale. Completing that chase will elevate Hale’s run into a fully representative Pan Handle Scrap profile.
Category Tags
- Subject Name: Nathan Hale
- Variation Type: Pan Handle Scrap (Dark Navy, Medium/Steel, Powder Blue), Natural Leaf Scrap, Miners Extra Regular & Short Cut), Royal Bengals Factory 2 & 17
- Rarity Tier: Tier 3 – Notable Supporting Cast
- Year: 1910–1911
- T68 Series: Series One
- Full Back-Type Completed: ✅
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