Value: 66¢, First Class Mail Rate (Forever)
First Day of Issue: April 10, 2023
First Day City: Freedom, Maine
Printed by: Banknote Corporation of America
Printing Method: Offset, Microprint (“USPS” at right of lowest flag stripe, stamps not adjacent on roll)
Perforations: Serpentine die cut
The Stamp’s Purpose: Continuing Tradition
Issued to maintain the near-annual tradition of featuring the American flag on a stamp.
Design Essence: Graphic Tribute to Old Glory
Showcasing a graphic design of Old Glory by artist Hong Li, with the word “FREEDOM” beneath the flag in gray.
First Day City: Freedom, Maine
Although lacking an official First Day of Issue Ceremony, all 2023 US Flag stamps were released in Freedom, Maine, on April 10th.
Representing Historical Significance: The Half-Mast Protocol
Highlighting the historical significance of the first official policy for flying the American flag at half-mast, enacted on March 1, 1954, by President Dwight D. Eisenhower. The policy aimed to pay respect to the memory of principal officials, former officials of the US government, and Governors of the States, Territories, and possessions.
Contemporary Relevance: A Gesture of Mourning
Exploring various contemporary reasons for flying the flag at half-mast, such as the 2020 order by President Donald Trump to honor American citizens who lost their lives to COVID-19. President Trump expressed the nation’s grief and solidarity against the “invisible enemy.”
Symbolic Reminder: Unifying as Americans
Regardless of the reason, the sight of the US flag at half-mast serves as a powerful reminder for everyone to pause and take notice. It symbolizes unity, reminding us that, in every circumstance, we stand together as fellow Americans.
