On July 31, 1946, Norma Jean Dougherty—soon to become Marilyn Monroe—signed her very first contract with 20th Century Fox. At just $150 a week, she began a nearly year-long journey of learning acting, singing, and dancing at the studio. While executives initially signed her mainly to keep her from rival studios, this small decision marked the first step in building one of Hollywood’s most enduring legends.

Her debut film role came in Dangerous Years (released December 7, 1947), and the rest is history. From this modest beginning, Marilyn became a top-billed actress, a cultural icon, and a timeless symbol of Hollywood’s Golden Age.

Featured here: The 1995 Marilyn Monroe: Legends of Hollywood U.S. postage stamp (32¢, Scott 2967), a perfect tribute to her unforgettable charm and star power.