# 1321/1363 - 1960s Traditional Christmas Collection, 3 stamps

Get America’s First Three Traditional Christmas Stamps

For many years, the US Post Office received thousands of letters requesting Christmas-themed stamps to frank holiday mail.  Finally, in 1962, they issued America’s first Christmas stamp. 

While the Christmas stamp was very popular, it wasn’t without its detractors.  Some didn’t agree with the idea of the post office issuing a stamp honoring a religious holiday.  Others wanted Christmas stamps that were more religious.  The Post Office would continue to issue Christmas stamps in the coming years that featured the National Christmas Tree, seasonal plants, and an angel in 1965.  The angel was considered less controversial because angels are included in many religions, not just Christianity.

Then in 1966, the Post Office had a new idea.  They could produce Christmas stamps utilizing classic paintings of the Madonna and Child.  These stamps wouldn’t violate the separation of church and state because they were a celebration of culture.   These new Traditional Christmas stamps proved just as popular as the other stamps, and the Post Office has continued issuing stamps in both categories ever since. 

With this set, you’ll get the first three Traditional Christmas stamps, issued between 1966 and 1968.

The first Traditional Christmas stamp (#1321) illustrates the Madonna and Child With Angels by painter Hans Memling, which hangs in the National Gallery of Art, Washington, DC.

The 1967 stamp utilized the same design. However, because the stamp is nearly twice the size of the original issue, greater detail can be enjoyed.

The 1968 Christmas issue pictures the Angel Gabriel and is titled The Annunciation.” It was painted by the Flemish painter Jan van Eyck, who often signed his paintings, “Done as well as I can.”

These meaningful stamps feature beautiful artwork and will make great additions to your collection.  Send for yours now.