'Flags of Our Nation' Stamps Unfurled
First 10 of 60 Coiled Flag Stamps Available Next Spring

WASHINGTON, DC — The U.S. Postal Service starts saluting flags of every state in the union, its five territories and the District of Columbia next spring when it introduces the first 10 of the 60 Flags of Our Nation First-Class coiled stamps.

"These beautiful symbols of democracy are educational treasures that make for a great introduction to stamp collecting," said Postmaster General John Potter. "As one of the world’s most popular hobbies, stamp collecting is an activity the entire family can enjoy.

The unfurling begins in alphabetical order next spring with the debut of stamps honoring flags of Alabama through Delaware — including the Stars and Stripes — followed by 10 more in the fall — District of Columbia through Kansas. The waving continues in 2009 and 2010 to complete the 60 stamp designs. Four of the six groups of 10 will include a Stars and Stripes stamp. The definitive stamps will be arranged alphabetically in strips of 10 and sold in coils of 100, with 10 strips of 10 designs in each coil.

Artist Tom Engeman of Brunswick, MD, created the highly detailed flag portraits to include state seals and coats of arms. In addition to the flag art, each stamp design includes artwork that provides a "snapshot view" of the state or other area represented by a particular flag. In most cases, an everyday scene or activity is shown, but occasionally the view is of something less commonplace —rare wildlife, perhaps, or a stunning vista. Unlike some previous multi-stamp issuances, this series is not limited to official animals, flowers, or products, nor is it meant to showcase well-known buildings, landmarks, or monuments.