# 1414/1799 - 1970s Traditional Christmas Collection, 10 stamps

Are You Missing These 1970s 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 10 1970s Traditional Christmas stamps.  Several of them feature classic works of art depicting the Madonna and Child, the Nativity, and angels.  There’s also one, issued during the Bicentennial, picturing George Washington in prayer at Valley Forge. The set also includes one of the first non-denominated US stamps, picturing The Madonna and Child, by Italian artist Domenico di Tommaso Ghirlandaio.  It was issued without a denomination because the USPS was unsure about an upcoming rate change.

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

Includes US #1414, 1444, 1471, 1507, 1550, 1579, 1701, 1729, 1768, and 1799.