[100 stamps]

Issue Date: October 10, 2013 These self-adhesive stamps are being issued in booklets of 20.The U.S. Postal Service continues its tradition of issuing classic holiday stamps with this bright and cheerful rendering of Americas favorite holiday flower, the poinsettia.The stamp art depicts the rich red and vibrant green leaves surrounding the flower?the cluster of small, rather modest cup-shaped structures in the center. The red “petals” that we think of as the flower are actually modified leaves called bracts. A potted poinsettia was used as art reference.While considered by the ancient Aztecs to be a symbol of purity, the poinsettia today symbolizes good cheer. The gift of a poinsettia is said to bring with it wishes of laughter and celebration.Found on everything from wrapping paper to holiday jewelry, the poinsettia says “Christmas” more than any other flower. The stamp arts vibrant red?Americas favorite poinsettia color?adds a decorative and celebratory note to cards and letters during the holidays.William Low painted the stamp art. Ethel Kessler was the art director.Poinsettia is being issued as a Forever stamp. Forever stamps are always equal in value to the current First-Class Mail one-ounce rate.Made in the USA.