Stamp art is the artwork you see on U.S. postage stamps. Some people only think of postage stamps when they mail a letter. What is it that makes stamps so special? Each stamp displays a work of art, individually created by an artist to honor a particular subject.

Since 1847 when the first postage stamps were released, stamp art has documented American history, celebrated famous Americans, and portrayed American culture. Stamp art is a reflection of the American experience, a mirror that reflects all the things that Americans hold dear.

So the next time you mail a letter, look closely. You'll see a miniature work of art that reflects the American spirit.

Why is stamp art used in the Patriot Challenge game?
The Patriot Challenge game celebrates the American journey and stamp art brings it to life. You will meet famous Americans, relive exciting events and see history unfold as you journey around the game board. You will see history in the making as the stamp art takes you through the milestones that have happened in your own lifetime. "Yes, a picture is worth a thousand words."

The United States Stamp Collection tells our story. It honors our accomplishments and reveals the spirit of the American people. Stamp art enhances the game experience and is the perfect complement to Patriot Challenge, The Game that Celebrates America.

The United States Stamp Collection is documenting history as we create it. Today's stamp art reflects the country's priorities such as helping children learn, finding a cure for breast cancer, or encouraging citizens to vote. Contemporary stamp art brings us right up to today, making the Patriot Challenge game historical and contemporary.

Even now, each of us is creating history. Our journey will be documented in future stamp issues. The American story continues…

How is stamp art created?
The process of selecting subjects and designing stamp art is a complex process. It involves numerous professionals from inside and outside the United States Postal Service. This will give you a brief summary of the process. For those who wish to know more, you can contact the United States Postal Service and request their publication Creating U.S. Postage Stamps.

The process begins when a proposal is submitted for a stamp subject. All proposals are considered by the Citizens' Stamp Advisory Committee (CSAC), which is comprised of 15 members. The committee develops a broad list of subjects based on several selection criteria and submits the list to the Postmaster General for final approval.

Once subjects are approved the Stamp Development design staff gets involved in developing the stamp designs. Talented artists, illustrators, and photographers are enlisted to create the art that will eventually become a Stamp Issue. The United States Stamp Collection is a historical record created by many professional artists who have contributed their talent to "honor" the American experience in this unique art form.