NEW YORK — The U.S. Postal Service today issued American Icons, a collection of 13 commemorative stamps curated by designer Ralph Lauren to honor the nation’s 250th anniversary.
The stamp pane features 13 photographs selected from Ralph Lauren’s archive and visuals that have inspired him. The images reflect themes of freedom, independence, equality, opportunity and the pursuit of happiness.
A dedication ceremony was held at the James A. Farley Post Office Building in New York City. Elvin Mercado, USPS chief retail and delivery officer, said the Postal Service has a long tradition of chronicling the nation’s history and is honored to dedicate these stamps as a tribute to America’s 250th anniversary.
Joining Mercado for the ceremony were Elliot Gruber, director of the National Postal Museum; journalist Katie Couric; and Frank Bennack Jr., executive vice chairman and former chief executive officer of Hearst Corp. Couric said it is a privilege to help unveil a collection that honors the American spirit as the nation approaches its 250th anniversary. Bennack, a longtime associate of Ralph Lauren and son of a career postal letter carrier, called the occasion remarkable.
Twelve of the 13 stamps include the “American Icons” title and “FOREVER” and “USA” in white text. In the center of the pane, a 13th stamp shows a knit flag designed by Ralph Lauren with text that reads “1776 to 2026.” The text at the top of the selvage reads “American Icons CURATED BY RALPH LAUREN” and the bottom reads “Celebrating 250 Years of the United States of America.”
American Icons stamps will be issued in panes of 13. As Forever stamps, they will always equal the current First-Class Mail one-ounce price.
Inspired by the collection, the 2026 U.S. Flag mail use stamp will feature a detailed photograph of a knitted interpretation of the U.S. flag from Ralph Lauren’s iconic Flag Sweater. It will be available in panes, booklets and coils.
A licensed commemorative capsule collection debuted at select Ralph Lauren retail stores globally and on RalphLauren.com. The capsule includes the 2026 U.S. Flag stamp reimagined as Ralph Lauren’s American Flag Sweater, a classic Polo Shirt and a Ball Cap.
The History Channel will premiere its new special, “Ralph Lauren’s American Icons,” on Saturday, July 4, at 7:30 p.m. ET/PT as part of its HISTORY Honors 250 campaign.
News about the stamps is being shared using the hashtag #AmericanIconsStamps. These stamps will be available at Post Offices nationwide, usps.com/shopstamps, or by calling 844-737-7826.
Southern Maryland residents can purchase the stamps at local post offices or online. The collection offers an opportunity for collectors and residents interested in national history and commemorative issues.
