By Amanda Greenwood
Associate News Editor
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A preview of the new 2026 stamp lineup, which aims to celebrate the nation’s cultural heritage, significant anniversaries, and cultural icons, has been revealed by the U.S. Postal Service (USPS),
Why It Matters
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The new stamp collection pays tribute to the document that expressed America’s intention to be free from British rule: The Declaration of Independence and marks the 150th anniversary of Colorado statehood. It also features American figureheads like Muhammad Ali, African American poet Phillis Wheatley, and Bruce Lee and commemorates historic cultures and landmarks like Route 66.
What To Know
All the announced 2026 stamps will be available to buy through the Postal Store website, by phone or mail, or at selected Post Office locations across the U.S.
The collection has been designed by a diverse group of photographers, artists, and art directors, and the USPS has given a "sneak peek" of a “partial list” of stamps, with “additional stamps to be announced in the coming weeks and months.”
Highlights include:
- Muhammad Ali: This stamp features a 1974 Associated Press photo of the three-time world heavyweight boxing champion and activist, which was designed by Antonio Alcalá. The first-day issue is set for January 15 in Louisville, Kentucky.
- Colorado Statehood: This stamp celebrates 150 years since Colorado became the 38th state in the U.S. and features a landscape shot of Jagged Mountain, taken by photographer John Fielder. These stamps are expected to be available from January 24, in Denver.
- Black Heritage: Phillis Wheatley: This—the 49th Black Heritage stamp—honors Phillis Wheatley, often referred to as “the mother of African American literature. It was also designed by Antonio Alcalá, and its release is scheduled for January 29, in Boston. The portrait of Wheatley feature on the stamp was made by artist Kerry James Marshall
- Bruce Lee: This stamp celebrates the Chinese American martial artist, actor, and filmmaker, Bruce Lee. It features Lee performing his famous flying kick in a painting by Kam Mak.
- Lowriders: These stamps are a mini collection of five customized "lowrider" cars that reflect the communities of the American Southwest and the Mexican American culture. The artwork uses photographs taken by Philip Gordon and Humberto "Beto" Mendoza.
- Figures of the American Revolution: This is a mini collection of 25 stamps that celebrate the nation’s 250th anniversary. Each stamp displays the face of a public figure who was instrumental in achieving American independence.
- Route 66: Sixteen stamps have been designed to honor the iconic highway’s 100th anniversary. The collection includes photographs by David Schwartz of all eight states along the route.
- Declaration of Independence: This stamp features a stylized “1776,” designed to resemble quill pens.
What People Are Saying
Lisa Bobb-Semple, USPS Stamp Services director, said: “Each stamp is a small work of art — an entryway into a larger story that connects people, places, and moments in history. This year, we continue to honor that legacy with a diverse range of subjects and designs, from beloved series and commemorative anniversaries to bold new releases that will inspire and excite collectors and admirers alike.”
What Happens Next
The 2026 stamps will roll out throughout the year, with the first releases—such as those honoring Muhammad Ali, Colorado Statehood, and Phillis Wheatley—scheduled for January.
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