New Hampshire flag stamp set for release in 2009

On June 12, the Postal Services begins unfurling the second of a three-year wave of its Flags of Our Nation series by issuing 10 stamp designs:  Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts Mississippi, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri and Stars and Stripes.

Another 10 will be issued Sept. 4:  Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota and Stars and Stripes.   

In addition to the flag art, each stamp design includes artwork that provides a “snapshot view” of the state or other area represented by a particular flag. In most cases, an everyday scene or activity is shown. Occasionally the view is of something less commonplace — rare wildlife, perhaps, or a stunning vista. Unlike some previous multi-stamp issuances, this series is not limited to official animals, flowers, or products, nor is it meant to showcase well-known buildings, landmarks, or monuments. 

“Snapshot” art for the Stars and Stripes stamps was inspired by the opening lines of “America the Beautiful,” written by Katharine Lee Bates (1859-1929). The spring 2009 design features “amber waves of grain,” while the fall 2009 design features “purple mountain majesties.”

The multi-stamp series featuring the Stars and Stripes, 50 state flags, five territorial flags and the District of Columbia flag was launched in 2008. Ten stamps were issued last spring, followed by 10 more last fall. The process continues in alphabetical order in 2009 and 2010, for a total of 60 stamp designs. Four of the six groups of 10 include a Stars and Stripes stamp.