U.S. #5620
2021 55¢ Raven Story
Issue Date: July 30, 2021
First Day City: Juneau, AK
Type of Stamp: Commemorative
Printed by: Banknote Corporation of America
Printing Method: Flexographic, Foil Stamping, Microprint
Format: Pane of 20
Self-Adhesive
Quantity Printed: 18,000,000
Throughout human history, animals have often been popular subjects for stories. Usually there is some amount of symbolism attached to animals in these stories. Usually there is some amount of symbolism attached to animals in these stories. Depending on the culture, the same animal might mean completely different things. Ravens are one of the best examples of this.
For many cultures, ravens are considered harbingers of death. They are said to bring bad luck, leading many people to fear them. However, there are also stories of ravens acting as protectors and providing aid to those in need.
Perhaps the most interesting tales about ravens originate from North America – specifically from indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest. In their mythology, the raven is closely associated with the Creator. In one story, it is said Raven discovered the first humans trapped in a giant clam shell. He freed them from their prison, but discovered the females were missing. Raven later found them trapped in a chiton (another type of shell). After reuniting the two sexes, the raven enjoyed watching them interact and grew quite fond of them. From then on, Raven became the protector and provider of mankind.
It's fun to discover the stories of other cultures. Especially when they are so different from our own.