The United States Postal Service (USPS) has a rich history of issuing Forever stamps that honor the enduring symbol of the nation—the American flag. These stamps not only facilitate everyday correspondence but also serve as miniature tributes to the country’s heritage and values. Below is a comprehensive overview of U.S. Flag-inspired Forever stamps, detailing their designs, years of issuance, and descriptions.
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2007: The Inaugural U.S. Flag Forever Stamp
In 2007, the USPS introduced the first Forever stamp featuring the American flag. This stamp showcased a vibrant image of the flag waving gracefully, symbolizing freedom and patriotism. Designed to always be equal in value to the current First-Class Mail one-ounce rate, this stamp marked the beginning of the Forever stamp program.
2013: A New Perspective
The 2013 U.S. Flag Forever stamp presented the flag from a unique low-angle perspective, capturing it billowing in the wind. This design aimed to evoke a sense of reverence and honor, reminiscent of the 50 flags encircling the Washington Monument. The stamp was painted using gouache on gesso board, combining images from three separate photographs into a single composition.
2018: Folded Flag Design
The offset-printed stamp features a digital illustration by Kit Hinrichs that shows a “graphic design of a flag with two crisp folds” launched at a price of $0.50.
2023: Freedom Emphasized
The 2023 U.S. Flag Forever stamp featured a straightforward graphic design of the red, white, and blue. Providing a solid foundation for the flag are the word “FREEDOM” in a gray slab sans serif font and, below it, “FOREVER / USA” in a smaller sans serif font. The manner in which the text is positioned suggests the endurance of freedom as a core value.
2024: The Majestic Flag at Different Times of Day
Scheduled for release on June 14, 2024, the U.S. Flags Forever stamps will showcase the flag majestically waving at various times of the day. The four unique designs capture the flag against changing skies, symbolizing its constant presence and the nation’s enduring spirit. Art director Ethel Kessler designed the stamps with illustrations by Laura Stutzman.
Collecting U.S. Flag Forever Stamps
Collecting U.S. Flag Forever stamps offers a fascinating glimpse into the evolving artistic representations of a national symbol. Each stamp not only reflects the flag’s enduring significance but also showcases the creativity and perspectives of the designers and illustrators involved. As the USPS continues to issue new designs, these stamps remain a testament to the nation’s values and artistic expression.
For more information on current and upcoming U.S. Flag Forever stamps, visit the USPS Postal Store.
