WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Postal Service continued its tradition of celebrating the nation's emblem by issuing four new stamps featuring the American flag. The stamps, depicting Old Glory against varying times of the day, were unveiled today.
Each stamp showcases the flag from a low-angle perspective, emphasizing the grandeur of the changing sky while the sun consistently shines on the flag. This artistic approach highlights the flag's enduring presence and the natural beauty that frames it.
The American flag's design was first defined on June 14, 1777, by the Continental Congress, specifying 13 horizontal stripes and 13 stars to represent the original colonies. Since its inception, the flag has undergone several changes, with the number of stars increasing as new states joined the Union. Notably, from 1795 to 1818, the flag featured 15 stripes to represent the 15 states at that time.
The Flag Act of 1818 standardized the flag's design, returning the number of stripes to 13 while adding a star for each new state. This act ensured that the flag would evolve alongside the nation. In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed June 14 as Flag Day, a day to honor this symbol of American unity and freedom. Congress officially designated Flag Day in 1939.
Over the years, there have been 27 different versions of the U.S. flag. The current design, featuring 50 stars, was introduced on July 4, 1960, following Hawaii's admission as the 50th state. This design is the longest-used version in American history.
The new U.S. Flags stamps are Forever stamps, meaning they will always hold the value of the current First-Class Mail 1-ounce price, regardless of future rate increases. They are available in various formats, including booklets and panes of 20, and coils of 100, 3,000, and 10,000.
The stamps were designed by USPS art director Ethel Kessler, with illustrations by Laura Stutzman. Kessler's collaboration with Stutzman aims to capture the flag's timeless significance and its visual harmony with the natural world.
As these new stamps enter circulation, they serve as a reminder of the flag's storied past and its role in American history. The Postal Service's continued dedication to commemorating national symbols through its stamp program reflects the enduring pride and patriotism felt by many Americans.
The stamps can be purchased at local post offices and through the USPS website. Collectors and enthusiasts alike are expected to appreciate this latest addition to the long line of flag-themed stamps, celebrating the spirit and resilience embodied by the Stars and Stripes.
No comments:
Post a Comment