USPS releases new stamps curated by Ralph Lauren for America's 250th

The U.S. Postal Service tapped renowned American designer Ralph Lauren to curate a collection of stamps in honor of the nation's 250th anniversary.

"American Icons," a pane of 13 commemorative stamps, "celebrates shared national values and the enduring spirit that has defined the American experience for (two and a half) centuries," the postal service said in a May 12 news release.

The collaboration marks the first time USPS has invited an individual to curate a complete stamp issuance.

"For nearly 60 years, Ralph Lauren has influenced American style with his enduring creative vision that is deeply rooted in the tapestry of American heritage, landscapes, cultures and artistry," USPS said in the release, adding Lauren is a "profound testament to the boundless possibilities of creativity, determination and the American dream."

Here are more details on the stamp collection.

USPS 'American Icons' collection

The postal service's "American Icons" stamp collection includes 13 photographs chosen from Lauren's archive and from "visuals that have inspired him and that reflect the unique fabric of the nation, representing freedom, independence, equality, opportunity and the pursuit of happiness," according to the news release. Designs include:

• The American Flag, our standard for freedom, resilience, unity, and bravery
• The Baseball Glove, used by Jackie Robinson, an enduring symbol of equality, teamwork and perseverance
• The Pickup Truck, worn and weathered, evokes the honesty of hard work
• The Faithful dog, always steadfast in loyalty and trust
• The Empire State Building stands tall as a landmark of possibility and ingenuity
• The Barn, forever a metaphor for utility, purpose and community
• The Diné (Navajo) Blanket, woven by Naiomi Glasses, celebrates the beauty of traditional artistry
• The Teddy Bear represents compassion, kindness, and comfort
• The Lighthouse shines as a beacon of guidance, hope and optimism
• The Hamburger, a centerpiece of the American family cookout and the celebrations that unite us
• The Racing Sailboat captures the passionate energy of competition
• The Horses, running wild, embody the spirit of independence and the freedom we all strive for

Each of the 12 stamps includes the text "American Icons," "USA" and "FOREVER."

The 13th stamp, meanwhile, is one of a knit flag designed by Ralph Lauren with text that reads "1776 to 2026."

How to get the Ralph Lauren USPS stamps

The "American Icons" stamps will be issued in panes of 13. The stamps will always be equal in value to the current First-Class Mail 1-ounce price, as they are Forever stamps, USPS said.

Customers will be able to purchase stamps starting June 9, in person at most Post Office locations nationwide, online or by phone at 844-737-7826.

Stamps can also be ordered via USA Philatelic, the only official source for the complete line of current stamps and stamp products from the U.S. Postal Service. Officially licensed stamp products are on Amazon.

Commemorative capsule collection

To celebrate the stamps, Ralph Lauren will also be releasing a commemorative capsule collection on June 9 at select retail stores and online on RalphLauren.com. The collections includes the 2026 U.S. Flag stamp reimagined as an American Flag sweater, a classic polo shirt and a ball cap.

Saman Shafiq is a trending news reporter for USA TODAY. Reach her at [email protected] and follow her on X and Instagram @saman_shafiq7.