A new non-denominated forever Star Ribbon stamp will be released in Oakbrook Terrace, Ill., showcasing a striking design that embodies patriotism. The digitally created stamp features a meticulously folded red, white, and blue ribbon arranged in the shape of a star, with the remaining white space forming an additional star in the center. The words “Forever” and “USA” elegantly accompany the design, emphasizing the stamp’s patriotic significance. The release of this stamp on March 22 will be a momentous occasion in Oakbrook Terrace, Illinois.
As early as 1869, patriotic symbols were incorporated into the design of United States postage stamps. One notable example is the series of 10 yellow stamps issued that year, which depicted an eagle with majestic wings outstretched, perched upon a striped shield. This powerful imagery symbolized the spirit of the nation and its values, serving as a proud representation of the United States on postage stamps. Since then, patriotic symbols have continued to play a significant role in stamp designs, reflecting the rich history and enduring pride of the country.
The tricolored ribbon, folded into a patriotic symbol, is intended to evoke the connectedness of the American people, according to the U.S. Postal Service.
The self-adhesive stamp will be issued in panes of 20, coils of 3,000, and coils of 10,000.
Technical details for the coils have not been released, but if the same printer created both coil sizes, it is likely the coil stamps will be the same regardless of the source. If so, two major varieties should result from this issue: one pane stamp and one coil variety.
The stamp design and illustration were created by Aaron Draplin, working with USPS art director Greg Breeding.
The stamps in panes of 20 were offset-printed by Banknote Corporation of America and will include micro printing, according to USPS technical details.
Asked why the stamp was being issued in a pane of 20 unusual formats for a forever definitive stamp. USPS spokesman Roy Betts told Linn’s Stamp News. There was a primary need for patriotic large coils, but because we wanted the general buying public to also have access to these stamps we decided to offer it in panes of 20 as well.
The stamp pane can be split to allow single sales, Betts added.
Along with various stamps featuring the American flag in many different styles, star-shaped designs in red, white, and blue have been featured on multiple U.S. postage stamps and postal stationery items over the years.
A pictorial first-day cancel in black has been prepared for the new stamp. A star design on the postmark complements the stamp design.
These Star Ribbon Stamps will always be equal in value to the current domestic 1-ounce letter postage price.
