The U.S. Post Office Department issued its first Christmas stamp in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on November 1, 1962. Customers had requested such a stamp for years. During the stamp dedication ceremony, Postmaster General J. Edward Day said that the stamp would be the first in a series of Christmas stamps.
Anticipating a huge demand for the new Christmas stamp, the department had 350 million printed — the largest number produced for a special stamp until that time. The red and green 4-cent stamps featured a wreath, two candles, and the words “Christmas 1962.” The initial supply sold out quickly and the Bureau of Engraving and Printing began working around-the-clock to print more. By the end of 1962, 1 billion stamps had been printed and distributed.
The decision to print a Christmas stamp generated some controversy, especially from groups concerned about maintaining the separation of church and state. Legal actions to bar the stamps were not successful. [United States Postal Service]
Christmas Stamps by year of issue:
1963
1964 (Issue of 4 separate stamps)
1965
1966
Collectible Stamps Gallery has images of all Christmas stamps issued.
