Weizmann Institute of Science (Israel 2019)

[press release]
Weizmann Institute of Science 70th Anniversary
Issue Date: November 26, 2019

The Weizmann Institute of Science has been guiding the spirit and substance of the State of Israel for 70 years. Dr. Chaim Weizmann, the first president of Israel and founder of the Weizmann Institute of Science is quoted in the campus square: “I trust and feel sure in my heart that science will bring to this land both peace and a renewal of its youth, creating here the springs of a new spiritual and material life. […] I speak of both science for its own sake, and science as a means to an end.” And in fact, 70 years after its founding ceremony, attended by the leaders of the young nation on November 2, 1949, the Weizmann Institute of Science is today ranked third in the world for research quality (Nature Index 2019 ranking) and is among the world’s 25 most influential institutions for technological and medical application. This is an especially significant achievement, as the Institute’s scientists focus on basic research, motivated solely by curiosity that has a single goal: to expand the boundaries of human knowledge and better understand the world and our place in it.

Weizmann scientists were the first to study cancer in Israel, the first to build an electronic computer (in 1954), the first to develop amniocentesis and the first original Israeli drug (Copaxone, for the treatment of multiple sclerosis). The first three particle accelerators in Israel were operated at the Institute and advanced ways to utilize solar energy were studied and developed in its solar dele tower. Prof. Ada Yonath, who deciphered the structure and workings of the ribosome, the cell’s protein factory, was the first female Israeli scientist to be awarded the Nobel Prize (2009). Today the Institute is a leader in developing personalized medical treatment, aerospace research and quantum physics.

The Weizmann Institute of Science also contributes in the social and educational realms. The “Perach” tutorial project was started at the Institute in the 1970’s. The national Science Oriented Youth program also began here. The expanded program is now managed by the Davidson Institute of Science Education, the educational branch of Weizmann Institute of Science. Thus the Institute’s scientists continue to lay the foundation of Israel’s status as the “startup nation”, as well as narrowing social gaps and working to improve the overall welfare of humankind.
—Yivsam Azgad

Description of the Stamp
The symbols rising from Dr. Chaim Weizmann’s hand represent the various fields of research at the Weizmann Institute of Science:

  • Chemistry – an acetone molecule. The molecule is floating above Weizmann’s hand because he himself was a chemist. The process of using bacteria to produce acetone for the British military in WWI garnered him political and scientific prestige.
  • Physics – an atom.
  • Mathematics & Computer Science – the Greek letter phi.
  • Life Sciences – a strand of DNA.
  • Education – a graduation mortarboard.

The symbols’ upward movement symbolizes the future.

Images of Dr. Chaim Weizmann on the stamp and FDC: courtesy of the National Photo Collection.

The FDC features a photo of the Weizmann Institute of Science Jacob Ziskind Building, the Institute’s first building. The inaugural ceremony was held here on November 2, 1949, attended by Dr. Chaim Weizmann and Prime Minister David Ben Gurion. The WEIZAC, Israel’s first computer, was constructed in this building. Today, the Jacob Ziskind Building houses the Faculty of Mathematics and Computer Science. Photo courtesy of Weizmann Institute of Science.

The cancellation [right] features an acetone molecule.

Name of stamp/set: Weizmann Institute of Science 70th Anniversary
Date of Issue: 26 November, 2019
Size of stamps\ souvenir sheet: W: 30 mm, H: 40 mm
Face Value: NIS 8.30
Plate Block No.: 1136
Designer: Ronen Goldberg
Printing Method: Offset
Printer: Enschede, Netherland
Sheet Type: Regular
Stamps per sheet: 15
Tabs: 5
No. of FDC’s: 1
Price of FDC’s: NIS 9.50
Place of cancellation: Rehovot

Drug Free USA (U.S. 2020)

Announced by the USPS October 31st.

[press release]
U.S. Postal Service Marks Red Ribbon Week with Drug Free USA Stamp
Forever Stamp Will Be Issued in October 2020

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Postal Service today revealed the Drug Free USA Forever stamp during Red Ribbon Week, the nation’s oldest and largest drug use prevention awareness program. The stamp will go on sale in October 2020. Additional details about the stamp dedication ceremony will be announced next year.

“This Drug Free USA Forever stamp will help further raise awareness about the dangers of drug abuse, and the toll it is taking on families and communities around our country,” said Robert M. Duncan, chairman of the USPS Board of Governors. “The Postal Service is glad to do its part in marking Red Ribbon Week, and renewing our commitment to helping these efforts to educate youth about the dangers of illegal drugs.”

In 1988, the National Family Partnership coordinated the first National Red Ribbon Week with President Ronald Reagan and first lady Nancy Reagan serving as honorary chairpersons. The week runs Oct. 23-31 and coincides with National Substance Abuse Prevention Month every October.

Red Ribbon Week was started after the death of Drug Enforcement Administration special agent Enrique “Kiki” Camarena, who was tortured and murdered in 1985 by drug traffickers he was investigating in Mexico. After Camarena’s death, people started wearing red ribbons to honor Kiki’s sacrifice.

“I am very pleased that the U.S. Postal Service will issue a stamp affirming our commitment to a drug-free America,” said DEA Acting Administrator Dhillon. “This stamp will help raise awareness of the fight against drug addiction and honor those who have dedicated their lives to that cause.”

The Drug Free USA Forever stamp art features a white star with lines of red, light blue and blue radiating from one side of each of the star’s five points, suggesting the unity necessary at all levels to effectively address drug abuse. Charlottesville, VA, designer Greg Breeding designed the stamp with original artwork by Portland, OR, graphic designer Aaron Draplin. USPS Acting Stamp Services Director William J. Gicker was the art director.

The stamp is being issued as a Forever stamp, which will always be equal in value to the current First-Class Mail 1-ounce price.

Added later: This stamp will be issued October 27th with a first-day city of Washington, DC.

Here is a larger version of the design:

Further information about this issue will be posted below the line, with the most recent nearest the top.


Updated December 5th:
The Scott catalogue number for this issue is 5542.

Updated October 22nd:

The first-day city has been changed from Washington, DC, to Arlington, VA. It will have a virtual first-day ceremony. More details from the press release:

[press release]
Miss America 2020 Attending Postal Service Ceremony For Drug Free USA Stamp Dedication Oct. 27

WHAT: The U.S. Postal Service joins the Drug Enforcement Administration to raise awareness about the dangers of drug abuse with the release of the Drug Free USA stamp. The release coincides with Red Ribbon Week, Oct. 23-31, promoting drug abuse prevention.

A pictorial postmark of the first-day-of-issue location, Arlington, VA, is available at usps.com/shopstamps.

News of the stamp is being shared with the hashtag #DrugFreeStamp.

WHO:
Louis DeJoy, Postmaster General and Chief Executive Officer,
U.S. Postal Service

Timothy Shea, acting administrator, Drug Enforcement Administration

Gary Barksdale, chief postal inspector, U.S. Postal Inspection Service

Peggy Sapp, president, National Family Partnership

Camille Schrier, Miss America 2020

WHEN: Tuesday, Oct. 27, 10 a.m. EDT

WHERE:
The stamp dedication ceremony will be livestreamed on the U.S. Postal Service’s Facebook and Twitter pages. The ceremony will not be open to the public to remain in compliance with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidance on the COVID-19 pandemic. There will be designated space for media covering the event.

BACKGROUND: Red Ribbon Week, which takes place in schools and communities nationwide every year from Oct. 23-31, helps parents as well as teachers, business owners and neighborhood organizations promote drug abuse awareness and prevention.

Participants wear a red ribbon or red to symbolize their dedication to preventing drug abuse. The annual campaign is sponsored by the National Family Partnership.

The Drug Free USA stamp features original artwork by Aaron Draplin. The image of a white star with lines of red, light blue and blue radiating from one side of each of the star’s five points suggests the unity that is necessary at all levels to effectively address drug abuse. The stamp’s background is dark blue. “Drug Free USA” appears above the stamp art, while the stamp’s denomination, “Forever,” appears below it. The year 2020 runs vertically along the bottom right corner of the image.

Greg Breeding designed the stamp and was also the typographer. USPS Stamp Services Director William J. Gicker was the art director.

The Drug Free USA stamp is being issued as a Forever stamp, which will always be equal in value to the current First-Class Mail 1-ounce price.

Here are the revised first-day cancels for this issue; The Digital Color Postmark measures 2.68″ x 1.35″ The pictorial postmark measures 2.58″ x 1.25″

Updated September 24th:

Several VSC Facebook Group participants don’t like this design; what do you think?

Loading poll ...

Today’s Postal Bulletin says the first-day city is Washington, DC.

More from the Bulletin:

On October 27, 2020, in Washington, DC, the United States Postal Service® will issue the Drug Free USA stamp (Forever® priced at the First-Class Mail® rate) in one design, in a pressure-sensitive adhesive pane of 20 stamps (Item 478900). The stamp will go on sale nationwide October 27, 2020, and must not be sold or canceled before the first-day-of-issue.

The Postal Service™ joins the effort to raise awareness about the dangers of drug use with the release of the Drug Free USA stamp. The stamp art features a white star with lines of red, light blue, and blue radiating from one side of each of the star’s five points, suggesting the unity necessary at all levels to effectively address drug use. Greg Breeding designed the stamp with original artwork by Aaron Draplin. William J. Gicker was the art director.

Automatic distribution.

How to Order the First-Day-of-Issue Postmark:
Customers have 120 days to obtain the first-day-of-issue postmark by mail. They may purchase new stamps at their local Post Office™ or at The Postal Store® website at usps.com/shop. They must affix the stamps to envelopes of their choice, address the envelopes (to themselves or others), and place them in a larger envelope addressed to:

FDOI – Drug Free USA Stamp
USPS Stamp Fulfillment Services
8300 NE Underground Drive, Suite 300
Kansas City, MO 64144-9900

After applying the first-day-of-issue postmark, the Postal Service will return the envelopes through the mail. There is no charge for the postmark up to a quantity of 50. There is a 5-cent charge for each additional postmark over 50. All orders must be postmarked by February 27, 2021.

Technical Specifications:

Issue: Drug Free USA Stamp
Item Number: 478900
Denomination & Type of Issue: First-Class Mail Forever
Format: Pane of 20 (1 design)
Series: N/A
Issue Date & City: October 27, 2020, Washington, DC 20066
Art Director: William J. Gicker, Washington, DC
Designer: Greg Breeding, Charlottesville, VA
Artist: Aaron Draplin, Portland, OR
Modeler: Joseph Sheeran
Manufacturing Process: Offset, Microprint
Printer: Ashton Potter (USA) Ltd. (APU)
Press Type: Muller A76
Stamps per Pane: 20
Print Quantity: 20,000,000 stamps
Paper Type: Nonphosphored Type III, Block Tag
Adhesive Type: Pressure-sensitive
Processed at: Ashton Potter (USA) Ltd. (APU)
Colors: PMS 533 C Dark Blue, PMS 2121 C Light Blue, PMS 2133 C Blue, PMS 485 C Red, PMS Cool Gray 7C
Stamp Orientation: Vertical
Image Area (w x h): 0.84 x 1.42 in./21.336 x 36.068 mm
Overall Size (w x h): 0.98 x 1.56 in./24.892 x 39.624 mm
Full Pane Size (w x h): 5.92 x 7.24 in./150.368 x 183.896 mm
Press Sheets Size (w x h): 11.84 x 21.72 in./300.736 x 551.688 mm
Plate Size: 240 stamps per revolution
Plate Number: “P” followed by five (5) single digits in four corners
Marginal Markings:
Front: Plate number in four corners
Back: ©2019 USPS • USPS logo • 2 barcodes (478900) • Plate position diagram (6) • Promotional text

Updated September 22nd:

This stamp will be issued October 27th. The city has not yet been announced.

[press release]
Postal Service Dedicating Drug Free USA Forever Stamp on Oct. 27

WHAT: The U.S. Postal Service joins the effort to raise awareness about the dangers of drug abuse with the release of the Drug Free USA Forever stamp, coinciding with Red Ribbon Week, Oct. 23-31, promoting drug abuse prevention.

News of the stamp is being shared with the hashtag #DrugFreeStamp.

WHEN: Tuesday, Oct. 27, 11 a.m. EDT.

BACKGROUND: Red Ribbon Week, which takes place in schools and communities nationwide every year from Oct. 23-31, helps parents as well as teachers, business owners and neighborhood organizations promote drug abuse awareness and prevention.

Participants wear a red ribbon or red to symbolize their dedication to preventing drug abuse. The annual campaign is sponsored by the National Family Partnership.

The Drug Free USA Forever stamp features original artwork by Aaron Draplin. The image of a white star with lines of red, light blue and blue radiating from one side of each of the star’s five points suggests the unity that is necessary at all levels to effectively address drug abuse. The stamp’s background is dark blue. “Drug Free USA” appears above the stamp art, while the stamp’s denomination, “Forever,” appears below it. The year 2020 runs vertically along the bottom right corner of the image.

Greg Breeding designed the stamp and was also the typographer. William J. Gicker was the art director.

The Drug Free USA stamp is being issued as a Forever stamp, which will always be equal in value to the current First-Class Mail 1-ounce price.

Postal Products: Customers may purchase stamps and other philatelic products through the Postal Store at usps.com/shop, by calling 800-STAMP24 (800-782-6724), by mail through USA Philatelic, or at Post Office locations nationwide.

Hanukkah (Canada 2019)

[press release]
Canada Post wishes Canadians “Hanukkah Same’ah” with new stamp
Colourful issue honours the Jewish Festival of Lights
[large version of stamp appears after the press releases]

MONTRÉAL – Hanukkah begins on the 25th day of Kislev, the third month of the Jewish calendar year, and lasts for eight days. In 2019, the festival occurs from nightfall on December 22 until nightfall on December 30. Canada Post is issuing this stamp today, well in advance of the celebration, so that Canadians can make their Hanukkah cards and other mail more festive.

Designed by Lionel Gadoury of Context Creative, this stamp – honouring the Jewish Festival of Lights – explores the relationship between light and dark. Combining a stylized menorah with layered patterns and nuanced hues that range from bright yellow to deep purple, the intent is to evoke a sense of reflection and contemplation.

One of the most widely observed Jewish holidays, Hanukkah commemorates the rededication of Judaism’s holiest site, the Temple in Jerusalem, in the second century BCE, after the Jewish people fought and regained their religious freedom. The seven-branched Temple menorah was required to stay lit at all times; however, after the battle, there was enough sanctified oil to last only one day. Miraculously, that small amount burned for the eight days it took to harvest, press and transport a new supply – which is why the kindling of a menorah, adding another light each day, is central to Hanukkah celebrations.

The Hanukkah stamp issue is available in booklets of 10 stamps at Canada Post retail outlets and online at canadapost.ca/shop.

Postes Canada souhaite une joyeuse Hanoukka aux Canadiens avec un nouveau timbre
La vignette colorée souligne la fête juive des Lumières

MONTRÉAL – D’une durée de huit jours, Hanoukka est célébrée à partir du 25e jour de Kislev, troisième mois du calendrier hébraïque. En 2019, le festival commence au coucher du soleil le 22 décembre et prend fin au coucher du soleil le 30 décembre. Postes Canada émet le timbre aujourd’hui, bien avant la célébration, pour que les Canadiens puissent égayer leurs cartes et leurs autres envois.

Conçu par Lionel Gadoury de Context Creative, le timbre, qui célèbre la fête juive des Lumières, explore la relation entre la lumière et l’obscurité. Mêlant une menorah stylisée avec des cercles superposés de teintes allant du jaune vif au violet foncé, la vignette invite à la réflexion et à la contemplation.

L’une des fêtes juives les plus observées, Hanoukka commémore la réinauguration du site le plus saint du judaïsme, le Temple de Jérusalem, au deuxième siècle avant notre ère, après que le peuple juif eut combattu pour regagner sa liberté religieuse. La menorah à sept branches du Temple devait rester allumée en tout temps; toutefois, après la bataille, il ne restait qu’une fiole contenant assez d’huile consacrée pour brûler une journée. Par miracle, la petite quantité d’huile a duré huit jours, le temps nécessaire pour réapprovisionner les stocks – c’est pourquoi l’allumage d’une nouvelle branche d’une menorah chaque jour est au cœur des célébrations de Hanoukka.

Le timbre sur Hanoukka est offert en carnets de 10 dans les points de vente au détail de Postes Canada et en ligne à postescanada.ca/magasiner.

The full booklet pane: The Official First Day Covers: Technical Specifications:

Christmas: The Magi (Canada 2019)

This stamp was issued November 4th: [press release]
Continuing the tradition of making mail merrier
Mailers can choose from a number of designs to dress up their holiday cards and letters.

OTTAWA – For more than five decades, Canadians have enjoyed the opportunity to dress up their December holiday mail with festive stamps. This year, Canada Post continues the tradition – and mailers can choose stamps depicting a variety of seasonal imagery.

One Christmas issue, designed by Vancouver’s Subplot Design Inc., focuses on the story of the Magi, the wise men from the East who are said to have followed a brilliant star to Bethlehem, bearing gifts for a newborn king.

The second holiday issue, Shiny and Bright, was designed and illustrated by Andrew Lewis. Influenced by festive cards of years gone by, the stamps depict classic holiday images of a reindeer (Permanent™ domestic rate), dancers (U.S. rate) and a partridge in a pear tree (international rate), and are sure to bring a touch of nostalgia to your holiday mail.

La tradition d’égayer le courrier des Fêtes se poursuit
Plusieurs motifs de timbres s’offrent aux expéditeurs pour orner leurs cartes et leurs lettres des Fêtes.

OTTAWA – Depuis plus de cinq décennies, les Canadiens ont la possibilité d’enjoliver leurs envois de décembre de timbres festifs. Cette année, Postes Canada continue la tradition, et les expéditeurs peuvent choisir des timbres ornés de diverses images de la saison des Fêtes.

Un des timbres de Noël de cette année, conçu par l’entreprise Subplot Design Inc. de Vancouver, raconte l’histoire des Mages, ces sages de l’Orient qui auraient suivi une étoile brillante jusqu’à Bethléem pour apporter des présents au roi nouveau-né.

Un deuxième jeu de timbres, Éclat et lumières, a été conçu et illustré par Andrew Lewis. Inspirés par les cartes de Noël d’antan, ces timbres illustrent des images classiques des Fêtes : un renne (timbre Permanent au tarif du régime intérieur), des ballerines (envois à destination des États-Unis) et une perdrix dans un poirier (tarif du régime international). Ils ne manqueront pas d’apporter une touche de nostalgie à vos envois des Fêtes. The official first day cover:

Shiny And Bright (Canada 2019)

These stamps were issued November 4th:

[press release]
Continuing the tradition of making mail merrier
Mailers can choose from a number of designs to dress up their holiday cards and letters.

OTTAWA – For more than five decades, Canadians have enjoyed the opportunity to dress up their December holiday mail with festive stamps. This year, Canada Post continues the tradition – and mailers can choose stamps depicting a variety of seasonal imagery.

One Christmas issue, designed by Vancouver’s Subplot Design Inc., focuses on the story of the Magi, the wise men from the East who are said to have followed a brilliant star to Bethlehem, bearing gifts for a newborn king.

The second holiday issue, Shiny and Bright, was designed and illustrated by Andrew Lewis. Influenced by festive cards of years gone by, the stamps depict classic holiday images of a reindeer (Permanent™ domestic rate), dancers (U.S. rate) and a partridge in a pear tree (international rate), and are sure to bring a touch of nostalgia to your holiday mail.

La tradition d’égayer le courrier des Fêtes se poursuit
Plusieurs motifs de timbres s’offrent aux expéditeurs pour orner leurs cartes et leurs lettres des Fêtes.

OTTAWA – Depuis plus de cinq décennies, les Canadiens ont la possibilité d’enjoliver leurs envois de décembre de timbres festifs. Cette année, Postes Canada continue la tradition, et les expéditeurs peuvent choisir des timbres ornés de diverses images de la saison des Fêtes.

Un des timbres de Noël de cette année, conçu par l’entreprise Subplot Design Inc. de Vancouver, raconte l’histoire des Mages, ces sages de l’Orient qui auraient suivi une étoile brillante jusqu’à Bethléem pour apporter des présents au roi nouveau-né.

Un deuxième jeu de timbres, Éclat et lumières, a été conçu et illustré par Andrew Lewis. Inspirés par les cartes de Noël d’antan, ces timbres illustrent des images classiques des Fêtes : un renne (timbre Permanent au tarif du régime intérieur), des ballerines (envois à destination des États-Unis) et une perdrix dans un poirier (tarif du régime international). Ils ne manqueront pas d’apporter une touche de nostalgie à vos envois des Fêtes. The official first day cover:

Red River Resistance (Canada 2019)

[press release]
Stamp marks 150th anniversary of the historic Red River Resistance
Asserting Métis rights led to negotiations that made Manitoba a province

WINNIPEG – Canada Post on November 6th issued a stamp marking the 150th anniversary of the Red River Resistance of 1869-70. It was a turbulent time when Métis rights were asserted, leading to negotiations that shaped the creation of Manitoba as a province.

In 1869, the Canadian government acquired a vast tract of western and northern lands that included present-day Manitoba. Alarmed at not being consulted and fearing the loss of their land and cultural rights, the Métis of the Red River Settlement stopped federal surveyors who arrived on their land without their consent.

In November that same year, the Métis, led by Louis Riel, seized Upper Fort Garry – in the heart of today’s Winnipeg. In cooperation with local Anglophone leaders, they set up a provisional government to negotiate the territory’s entry into Confederation. The provisional government drafted its terms in a List of Rights and continued to occupy Upper Fort Garry as a strategic defensive position from which to advance their cause.

Political and armed efforts to resolve the standoff continued over the winter. In the spring, a delegation travelled to Ottawa to negotiate, insisting that the federal government recognize the Métis people and their land and cultural rights. This “Bill of Rights” formed the basis of the resulting Manitoba Act, which brought the first western province into Confederation on July 15, 1870.

The stamp image, designed by Paprika and illustrated by Gérard DuBois, is based on two historical sources: an 1848 lithograph of Fort Garry and a photograph of Louis Riel and his provisional government taken in 1870. Throughout the development of this stamp, Canada Post worked closely with the Métis National Council. The stamp is available in a booklet of 10 and affixed to an Official First Day Cover cancelled in Winnipeg. Find them at your local post office and online at canadapost.ca/shop.

Updated November 12th: Here is the Official FDC for this issue: And a closeup and enhancement of the list of names:

Hanukkah (U.S. 2020)

From the USPS July 28th:

This new stamp celebrates the joyous Jewish holiday of Hanukkah. The stamp art’s colorful digital illustration shows the lighting of the nine-branched Hanukkah menorah on the last evening of the holiday. All eight of the Hanukkah candles have been lit, and the child is reaching up to replace the shamash, the helper candle used to light the others in the menorah. Art director Ethel Kessler designed the stamp with original art by Jing Jing Tsong.

This stamp will be issued Tuesday, October 6, with a first-day city of New Rochelle, NY. New information will appear below the line, with the latest at the top. Hanukkah in 2020 begins the evening of December 10th and ends at sundown on December 18th.


Updated December 5th:
The Scott catalogue number for this issue is 5530.

Updated September 29th:
Virtual ceremony for this issue.

[press release]
New Stamp Celebrates Hanukkah

WHAT: The U.S. Postal Service announces a new stamp dedicated to the festive Jewish holiday Hanukkah.

Families come together each year to celebrate Hanukkah, also called the Festival of Lights. In 2020, Hanukkah begins on the evening of Dec. 10.

News of the stamp is being shared with hashtag #HanukkahStamps.

WHO: USPS Controller and Vice President Cara Greene

Union for Reform Judaism Senior Vice President Emeritus Rabbi Lennard Thal
Artist Jing Jing Tsong

WHEN: Tuesday, Oct. 6, 2020, at 11 a.m. EDT

WHERE:
A virtual stamp dedication ceremony for the Hanukkah stamp will be posted on the Postal Service’s Facebook and Twitter pages.

Please visit usps.com/hanukkah for details of the event.

BACKGROUND:

The stamp art’s colorful digital illustration shows the lighting of the hanukiah on the last evening of Hanukkah. Artist Jing Jing Tsong chose her colors intentionally to evoke Hanukkah traditions as seen through the eyes of children.

The darker blue colors in the background symbolize winter, while the brightly colored flaming candles reflect the spirit and warmth of sharing the holiday traditions.

The Hanukkah stamp is being issued as a Forever stamp in a pane of 20. This Forever stamp will always be equal in value to the current First-Class Mail 1-ounce price.
Pre-orders for the Hanukkah stamp can be placed online at usps.com and by phone at 800-STAMP24 (800-782-6724).

Updated September 3rd:
Here are the first-day postmarks for this issue: The Digital Color Postmark measures 2.88″x1.09″ The Pictorial Postmark measures 2.73″x1.08″

Updated August 28th from the Postal Bulletin:

On October 6, 2020, in New Rochelle, NY, the United States Postal Service® will issue the Hanukkah stamp (Forever® priced at the First-Class Mail® rate) in one design, in a pressure-sensitive adhesive pane of 20 stamps (Item 574800). The stamp will go on sale nationwide October 6, 2020, and must not be sold or canceled before the first-day-of-issue.

This new stamp celebrates the joyous Jewish holiday of Hanukkah. The stamp art’s colorful digital illustration shows the lighting of the Hanukkah menorah — the nine-branched hanukiah — on the last evening of the holiday. All eight of the Hanukkah candles have been lit, and the child is reaching up to replace the shamash, the helper candle used to light the others in the menorah. Art director Ethel Kessler designed the stamp with original art by Jing Jing Tsong.

No automatic distribution to post offices.

How to Order the First-Day-of-Issue Postmark:
Customers have 120 days to obtain the first-day-of-issue postmark by mail. They may purchase new stamps at their local Post Office™ or at The Postal Store® website at usps.com/shop. They must affix the stamps to envelopes of their choice, address the envelopes (to themselves or others), and place them in a larger envelope addressed to:

FDOI – Hanukkah Stamp
USPS Stamp Fulfillment Services
8300 NE Underground Drive, Suite 300
Kansas City, MO 64144-9900

After applying the first-day-of-issue postmark, the Postal Service™ will return the envelopes through the mail. There is no charge for the postmark up to a quantity of 50. There is a 5-cent charge for each additional postmark over 50. All orders must be postmarked by February 6, 2021.

Technical Specifications:

Issue: Hanukkah Stamp
Item Number: 574800
Denomination & Type of Issue: First-Class Mail Forever
Format: Pane of 20 (1 design)
Series: N/A
Issue Date & City: October 6, 2020, New Rochelle, NY 10801
Art Director: Ethel Kessler, Bethesda, MD
Designer: Ethel Kessler, Bethesda, MD
Illustrator: Jing Jing Tsong, Kailua Kona, HI
Modeler: Joseph Sheeran
Manufacturing Process: Offset, Microprint
Printer: Ashton Potter (USA) Ltd. (APU)
Press Type: Muller A76
Stamps per Pane: 20
Print Quantity: 15,000,000 stamps
Paper Type: Nonphosphored Type III, Block Tag
Adhesive Type: Pressure-sensitive
Processed at: Ashton Potter (USA) Ltd. (APU)
Stamp Orientation: Horizontal
Image Area (w x h): 1.05 x 0.77 in./26.67 x 19.558 mm
Stamp Size (w x h): 1.19 x 0.91 in./30.226 x 23.114 mm
Full Pane Size (w x h): 5.76 x 5.8 in./146.304 x 147.32 mm
Colors: Black, Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, PMS 7405C Yellow
Plate Size: 320 stamps per revolution
Plate Number: “P” followed by five (5) single digits
Marginal Markings:
Front: Header: Hanukkah • Plate number in bottom 2 corners
Back: ©2019 USPS • USPS logo • Two barcodes (574800) • Promotional text • Plate position diagram (8)

Kwanzaa (2020)

From the USPS on July 28th:

With this new stamp, the Postal Service continues its tradition of celebrating Kwanzaa. The annual Pan-African holiday, which takes place over seven days from Dec. 26 to Jan. 1, brings family, community and culture together for many African Americans. The stamp design features the face of a woman in profile with her eyes closed. Her contemplative demeanor signifies the ways in which observers of Kwanzaa reflect on the seven founding principles, the Nguzo Saba, and their role in everyday life. A kinara (candleholder) with the seven lit candles (mishumaa saba) sits in front of her. Cool tones evoke a sense of inner peace, and vibrant design elements give the artwork a celebratory feel. Art director Antonio Alcalá designed the stamp with original artwork by Andrea Pippins.

New information will appear below the line, with the latest at the top. Kwanzaa in 2020 begins December 26th and ends January 1, 2021.


Updated December 5th:
The Scott catalogue number for this issue is 5531.

Updated September 16th:
Here are the first-day postmarks for this issue: The Digital Color Postmark measures 2.43″ x 1.49″ The pictorial postmark measures 1.93″ x 1.23″

Updated September 10th from the Postal Bulletin:

On October 13, 2020, in Nashville, TN, the United States Postal Service® will issue the Kwanzaa stamp (Forever® priced at the First-Class Mail® rate) in one design, in a pressure-sensitive adhesive pane of 20 stamps (Item 574900). The stamp will go on sale nationwide October 13, 2020, and must not be sold or canceled before the first-day-of-issue.

With this new stamp, the Postal Service™ continues its tradition of celebrating Kwanzaa. The annual Pan-African holiday, which takes place over seven days from December 26 to January 1, brings family, community, and culture together for many African Americans. The stamp design features the face of a woman in profile with her eyes closed. Her contemplative demeanor signifies the ways in which observers of Kwanzaa reflect on the seven founding principles, the Nguzo Saba, and their role in everyday life. A kinara (candleholder) with the seven lit candles (mishumaa saba) sits in front of her. Cool tones evoke a sense of inner peace and vibrant design elements give the artwork a celebratory feel. Art director Antonio Alcalá designed the stamp with original artwork by Andrea Pippins.

No automatic distribution.

How to Order the First-Day-of-Issue Postmark:
Customers have 120 days to obtain the first-day-of-issue postmark by mail. They may purchase new stamps at their local Post Office™ or at The Postal Store® website at usps.com/shop. They must affix the stamps to envelopes of their choice, address the envelopes (to themselves or others), and place them in a larger envelope addressed to:

FDOI – Kwanzaa Stamp
USPS Stamp Fulfillment Services
8300 NE Underground Drive, Suite 300
Kansas City, MO 64144-9900

After applying the first-day-of-issue postmark, the Postal Service will return the envelopes through the mail. There is no charge for the postmark up to a quantity of 50. There is a 5-cent charge for each additional postmark over 50. All orders must be postmarked by February 13, 2021.

Technical Specificiatons:

Issue: Kwanzaa Stamp
Item Number: 574900
Denomination & Type of Issue: First-Class Mail Forever
Format: Pane of 20 (1 design)
Series: N/A
Issue Date & City: October 13, 2020, Nashville, TN 37202
Art Director: Antonio Alcalá, Alexandria, VA
Designer: Antonio Alcalá, Alexandria, VA
Artist: Andrea Pippins, Bowie, MD
Modeler: Sandra Lane/Michelle Finn
Manufacturing Process: Offset, Microprint
Printer: Banknote Corporation of America
Press Type: Alprinta 74
Stamps per Pane: 20
Print Quantity: 15,000,000 stamps
Paper Type: Phosphor Tagged Paper, Block Tagged
Adhesive Type: Pressure-sensitive
Processed at: Banknote Corporation of America
Colors: Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black
Stamp Orientation: Vertical
Image Area (w x h): 0.77 x 1.05 in/19.558 x 26.67 mm
Overall Size (w x h): 0.91 x 1.19 in/23.114 x 30.226 mm
Full Pane Size (w x h): 5.55 x 5.76 in/140.97 x 146.304 mm
Plate Size: 160 stamps per revolution
Plate Number: “B” followed by four (4) single digits
Marginal Markings:
Front: Plate number in four corners
Back: ©2020 USPS • USPS logo • Two barcodes (574900) • Plate position diagram (8) • Promotional text

Mayflower in Plymouth Harbor (U.S. 2020)

From the U.S. Postal Service announcement on October 22, 2019:

With this commemorative stamp, the Postal Service marks the 400th anniversary of the arrival of the Mayflower in Plymouth Harbor. The stamp’s image is based on artwork of watercolor, acrylic and gouache, a method of painting that uses opaque pigments ground in water and thickened to a glue-like consistency. The painting was digitally refined to convey a scene of desolate beauty at the end of the Pilgrims’ long journey to an unfamiliar world. Art director Greg Breeding designed the stamp with original art by Greg Harlin.

This stamp will be issued Thursday, September 17th in Plymouth, MA.

The Scott catalogue number for this issue is 5524.

Additional information will be posted below the line, with the most recent at the top.


Updated August 18th:
Here are the first-day postmarks for this issue: (Measurements corrected on the 19th)The Digital Color Postmark measures 2.69″ x 1.46″ (Corrected August 19th)
The pictorial postmark measures 2.70″ x 1.49″. (Corrected August 19th.)

Updated August 14th from the Postal Bulletin
On September 17, 2020, in Plymouth, MA, the United States Postal Service® will issue the Mayflower in Plymouth Harbor stamp (Forever® priced at the First-Class Mail® rate) in one design, in a pressure-sensitive adhesive pane of 20 stamps (Item 476700). The stamp will go on sale nationwide September 17, 2020, and must not be sold or canceled before the first-day-of-issue. The Mayflower in Plymouth Harbor pane of 20 stamps may not be split and the stamps may not be sold individually.

With this commemorative stamp, the United States Postal Service marks the 400th anniversary of the arrival of the Mayflower in Plymouth Harbor. The watercolor, gouache, and acrylic painting was digitally refined to convey a scene of desolate beauty at the end of the Pilgrims‘ harrowing journey to an unfamiliar world. The stamp also features a stylized hawthorn flower printed in intaglio. In England, the hawthorn — a member of the rose family — is sometimes called a mayflower, as it blooms in May. Art director Greg Breeding designed the stamp with original art by Greg Harlin.

No automatic distribution of Item 476700, Mayflower in Plymouth Harbor

How to Order the First-Day-of-Issue Postmark:
Customers have 120 days to obtain the first-day-of-issue postmark by mail. They may purchase new stamps at their local Post Office™ or at The Postal Store® website at usps.com/shop. They must affix the stamps to envelopes of their choice, address the envelopes (to themselves or others), and place them in a larger envelope addressed to:

FDOI – Mayflower in Plymouth Harbor Stamp
USPS Stamp Fulfillment Services
8300 NE Underground Drive, Suite 300
Kansas City, MO 64144-9900

After applying the first-day-of-issue postmark, the Postal Service™ will return the envelopes through the mail. There is no charge for the postmark up to a quantity of 50. There is a 5-cent charge for each additional postmark over 50. All orders must be postmarked by January 17, 2021.

Technical Specifications:

Issue: Mayflower in Plymouth Harbor Stamp
Item Number: 476700
Denomination & Type of Issue: First-Class Mail Forever
Format: Pane of 20 (1 design)
Series: N/A
Issue Date & City: September 17, 2020, Plymouth, MA 02360
Art Director: Greg Breeding, Charlottesville, VA
Designer: Greg Breeding, Charlottesville, VA
Artist: Greg Harlin, Annapolis, MD
Modeler: Joseph Sheeran
Manufacturing Process: Offset, Intaglio, Microprint
Printer: Ashton Potter (USA) Ltd. (APU)
Press Type: Stevens Vari-Size Security Press
Stamps per Pane: 20
Print Quantity: 25,000,000 stamps
Paper Type: Nonphosphored Type III, Block Tagged
Adhesive Type: Pressure-sensitive
Processed at: Ashton Potter (USA) Ltd. (APU)
Stamp Orientation: Horizontal
Image Area (w x h): 1.42 x 0.84 in./36.068 x 21.336 mm
Stamp Size (w x h): 1.56 x 0.98 in./39.624 x 24.892 mm
Full Pane Size (w x h): 10 x 6.35 in./254 x 161.29 mm
Press Sheet Size (w x h): 20.125 x 12.825 in./511.175 x 325.755 mm
Colors: Black, Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Intaglio Black
Plate Size: 80 stamps per revolution
Plate Number: “P” followed by five (5) single digits
Marginal Markings:
Front: Header: MAYFLOWER IN PLYMOUTH HARBOR • Plate number in bottom two corners
Back: ©2019 USPS • USPS logo • Two barcodes (476700) • Promotional text • Plate position diagram (4)

Updated February 18th:
In an interview with Wicked Local/Plymouth (a website owned by Gannett Media) shortly after this stamp was announced, organizers of the Plymouth 400 celebration expressed disappointment about the stamp design.

“We have been asking that any stamps they produce include not only the European side of the story, but also the Native American perspective,” said George McKay, a Plymouth 400 Inc. volunteer who headed the philatelic effort. “Unfortunately for us, they chose to only produce one stamp for 2020, which does not include the other side of the story.”

Plymouth 400 is also running a FDC cachet contest for this issue, although there is no mention of what the prizes or compensation might be. You can find out how to enter here. The deadline for submissions is June 30th.

19th Amendment: Women Vote (U.S. 2020)

From the U.S. Postal Service announcement on October 22, 2019:

With this stamp, the Postal Service commemorates the centennial of the ratification of the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which guarantees women the right to vote. Inspired by historic photographs, the stamp features a stylized illustration of suffragists marching in a parade or other public demonstration. The clothes they wear and the banners they bear display the official colors of the National Woman’s Party — purple, white and gold. Art director Ethel Kessler designed the stamp with original art by Nancy Stahl.

This stamp will be issued Wednesday, August 22nd, in Seneca Falls, NY. (Note date change!)

The Scott catalogue number for this issue is 5523.

Additional information will be posted below the line, with the most recent at the top.


Updated August 21st:

The designer of this stamp, Nancy Stahl, gave a talk this morning on Zoom as part of Virtual Stamp Show, and showed some preliminary drawings for this stamp. The woman in the photographs is Stahl herself! She had discussions with the U.S. Postal Service on how many women to include and where. These are not meant to be specific historical figures, but representations. Stahl said she wishes she had fought harder for the black woman to be more prominent in the finished design, which is shown on the right and at the top of this page.

Updated August 14th:
[ceremony information from USPS]
Forever Stamp Honors Centennial of Women’s Suffrage

WHAT: A new Forever stamp, 19th Amendment: Women Vote, will be issued by the U.S. Postal Service. This stamp commemorates the centennial celebration of the ratification of the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, guaranteeing women the right to vote.

News of the stamp is being shared with hashtags #WomenVoteStamps and #19thAmendmentStamps.

WHO:

  • USPS Chief Commerce and Business Solutions Officer Jacqueline Krage Strako
  • Women’s Rights National Historical Park acting superintendent Andrea DeKoter
  • Historian Coline Jenkins-Sahlin, a descendant of Elizabeth Cady Stanton

WHEN: Saturday, Aug. 22, 2020, at 11:00 a.m. EDT

WHERE:
The virtual stamp event, part of the Women’s Rights National Historical Park Equality Weekend, will be posted on the Postal Service’s Facebook and Twitter pages.

Please visit usps.com/19thamendment for details of the virtual stamp dedication ceremony.

Background:
Inspired by historic photographs, the stamp art features a stylized illustration of suffragists marching in a parade or other public demonstration. The clothes they wear and the banners they bear display the official colors of the National Woman’s Party — purple, white and gold.

More than 70 years in the making, the 19th Amendment was added to the Constitution on Aug. 26, 1920.

Pre-orders for the 19th Amendment: Women Vote stamps can be made online at usps.com and by phone at 800-STAMP24 (800-782-6724), beginning July 22.

Updated August 4th:
Here are the first-day cancels for this issue:The Digital Color Postmark for this issue measures 2.55″ x 1.49″ The Pictorial Postmark for this issue measures 1.66″ x 1.48″

Updated July 31st from the Postal Bulletin:
On August 22, 2020, in Seneca Falls, NY, the United States Postal Service® will issue the 19th Amendment: Women Vote stamp (Forever® priced at the First-Class Mail® rate) in one design, in a pressure-sensitive adhesive pane of 20 stamps (Item 476600). The stamp will go on sale nationwide August 22, 2020, and must not be sold or canceled before the first-day-of-issue.

With this stamp, the United States Postal Service commemorates the centennial of the ratification of the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which guarantees women the right to vote. Inspired by historic photographs, the stamp artwork features a stylized illustration of suffragists marching in a parade or other public demonstration. The clothes they wear and the banners they bear display the official colors of the National Woman’s Party — purple, white, and gold. Art director Ethel Kessler designed the stamp with original art by Nancy Stahl.

Item 476600, 19th Amendment: Women Vote (Forever Priced at the First-Class Mail Rate) Pane of 20 Stamps will have Automatic distribution.

How to Order the First-Day-of-Issue Postmark:
Customers have 120 days to obtain the first-day-of-issue postmark by mail. They may purchase new stamps at their local Post Office™ or at The Postal Store® website at usps.com/shop. They must affix the stamps to envelopes of their choice, address the envelopes (to themselves or others), and place them in a larger envelope addressed to:

FDOI – 19th Amendment: Women Vote Stamp
USPS Stamp Fulfillment Services
8300 NE Underground Drive, Suite 300
Kansas City, MO 64144-9900

After applying the first-day-of-issue postmark, the Postal Service™ will return the envelopes through the mail. There is no charge for the postmark up to a quantity of 50. There is a 5-cent charge for each additional postmark over 50. All orders must be postmarked by December 22, 2020.

Technical Specifications:

Issue: 19th Amendment: Women Vote Stamp
Item Number: 476600
Denomination & Type of Issue: First-Class Mail Forever
Format: Pane of 20 (1 design)
Series: N/A
Issue Date & City: August 22, 2020, Seneca Falls, NY 13148
Art Director: Ethel Kessler, Bethesda, MD
Designer: Ethel Kessler, Bethesda, MD
Illustrator: Nancy Stahl, New York, NY
Modeler: Sandra Lane/Michelle Finn
Manufacturing Process: Offset, Microprint
Printer: Banknote Corporation of America
Press Type: Alprinta 74
Stamps per Pane: 20
Print Quantity: 30,000,000 stamps
Paper Type: Phosphor Tagged Paper, Block tag
Adhesive Type: Pressure-sensitive
Processed at: Banknote Corporation of America
Colors: PMS 7672, Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black
Stamp Orientation: Vertical
Image Area (w x h): 0.84 x 1.42 in/21.336 x 36.068 mm
Overall Size (w x h): 0.98 x 1.56 in/24.892 x 39.624 mm
Full Pane Size (w x h): 5.92 x 7.24 in/150.368 x 183.896 mm
Press Sheet Size (w x h): 11.84 x 21.72 in/300.736 x 551.668 mm
Plate Size: 120 stamps per revolution
Plate Numbers: “B” followed by five (5) single digits in four corners
Marginal Markings:
Front: Plate number in four corners
Back: ©2019 USPS • USPS logo • 2 barcodes (476600) • Plate position diagram (6) • Promotional text