Among the new stamps available for Christmas 2016 from the U.S. Postal Service are a new Nativity stamp and a set of four Holiday Windows stamps.
The Nativity stamp art features an image of the Holy Family silhouetted against a dawn sky. As the baby Jesus lies in a straw-filled manger, Mary kneels to the right and Joseph stands to the left, holding a lantern. Over the scene, a bright star shines on the trio. The color palette features simple shades of blue and white highlighted by deep shadows.
It is being issued in booklets of 20 Forever stamps, which will always be equal in value to the current First-Class Mail one-ounce price.
The Holiday Windows stamps reflect the simple pleasures of the wintry holiday season and feature a candle, a wreath, a star and a lighted tree. The stamps show the tranquil calm of a winter evening after the snow has fallen and the sun has set.
Two designs show views from the inside looking out: a single burning candle sits on a window sill, and a simple star ornament hangs in a window. Two other designs show views from the outside looking in: a brightly lit indoor Christmas tree contrasts with the snowy shrubs outside, and a snow-covered wreath hangs in front of a frosted window.
Featuring snowy winter nights, these stamps demonstrate how windows everywhere play a role in the celebration of the holidays. We can delight in the snow when we’re inside, and can share our warmth and happiness with the outside world through simple panes of glass.
These new stamps are sold only as complete booklets of 20 stamps, priced at $9.40 (the individual stamp price is 47 cents). The booklets feature four designs that each appears five times.
The Holiday Windows stamps are being issued as Forever stamps.
