Value: 66¢ 1-ounce first-class letter rate

Issued:  September 9, 2015

First Day City:  Kansas City, MO

Printed by: Banknote Corporation of America for Sennett Security Products

Method: Offset printing in sheets of 160, with 8 panes of 20

The U.S. Postal Service issued the “Celebrate!” stamp in 2015 to commemorate joyous occasions, drawing inspiration from the vibrant imagery at the Museum of Neon Art in Los Angeles.

Art director Phil Jordan, influenced by his visit to the Museum of Neon Art, envisioned the stamp’s exciting imagery and vivid colors. Recognizing the challenge, he selected fine artist Michael Flechtner to design America’s first neon stamp.

Flechtner, inspired by fireworks displays, created a 34″ by 44″ design. Using heated glass tubing, he bent letters and fireworks, employing neon gas for red-orange, argon and mercury for blue, and phosphor coatings for other colors. The result is one of the most vibrant U.S. stamps, capturing the festive spirit of celebrations and fireworks with glowing neon.

Celebrations worldwide bring family and friends together to honor birthdays, anniversaries, new jobs, and retirements, fostering joy and togetherness.