It’s always a thrill to share what’s coming up on the United States Postal Service commemorative stamp program, and the 2026 collection is shaping up to be one of our most inspiring yet. Working closely with the Citizens’ Stamp Advisory Committee (CSAC), our Stamp Services team has produced a lineup that honors icons, milestones and cultural traditions in ways that are both beautiful and meaningful.
The 2026 stamp program exemplifies the Postal Service’s commitment to celebrating the artistry and storytelling that make stamps so special. What continues to fascinate me about stamps is that each stamp is a small work of art that opens a door to a larger story that connects people, places and moments in history. From beloved series to bold new releases, there’s truly something for everyone, whether you’re a lifelong collector or simply someone who appreciates the artistry of stamps.
One stamp I am sure will be popular is our tribute to the nation’s 250th anniversary. Designed and created by New York-based Juan Carlos Pagan, the stamp art celebrates the signing of the Declaration of Independence by featuring a typographic treatment of “1776,” with each numeral mirroring the shape of a feather quill.
We continue our 250th theme with a tribute to 25 individuals whose ideas, leadership and sacrifice were vital to shaping a fledgling nation. There will be familiar faces like George Washington and Abigail Adams, but there are some you may not have heard of, and I urge you all to take time to look through all 25 stamps in a collection that serves as much as an educational journey as a celebration.
Our Black Heritage series, which is now in its 49th season, also harks back to the country’s beginning by featuring Phillis Wheatley, the first author of African descent in the American Colonies to publish a book. Her legacy as “the mother of African American literature” is beautifully captured in a portrait by Kerry James Marshall.
We are packing a lot into the 2026 collection, including a highly anticipated stamp commemorating legendary boxer, activist and humanitarian Muhammad Ali. For me, this stamp’s use of a famous Ali pose and bold design truly captures the energy and charisma that made this icon “The Greatest.”
As our sneak peek at the 2026 collection shows, this is just a highlight of what’s coming over the next 12 months. Bruce Lee fans, I’m sure, will be happy with how we honor his legacy, while Americana and history buffs may enjoy our recognition of storied folk artist Harriet Powers, writer Sarah Orne Jewett, the American bison, Colorado’s 150th anniversary and five stamps marking the life journey of the Bald Eagle. And for the car enthusiasts out there, we have two new collections for you, celebrating the 100th anniversary of Route 66 and the cultural impact of lowriders.
As always, you can explore commemorative collections from this year and previous collections at The Postal Store® and learn more about the stories behind the stamps at stampsforever.com. You can also keep an eye on the USPS newsroom, where we will continue to post previews of upcoming stamps and details on our first-day-of-issue ceremonies, which are free and open to the public.
The Stamp Services team and I are honored to be part of this celebration of America, especially as our nation celebrates its 250th year. This collection is a vibrant and joyful representation of what is best about this nation, and it is a pleasure to help make these small pieces of art a reality.
We are always open to your ideas for future stamps. If you find inspiration in our 2026 collection, you are welcome to submit your idea by mail to the CSAC by following this process. Together, we can continue honoring America’s past while inspiring future generations through the art of stamps
Lisa Bobb-Semple, Director Stamp Services
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