Why the stamp was issued:  To cover the one-ounce international letter rate to any country that has First-Class Mail International service.

About the stamp design:  Pictures a photograph of a pink chrysanthemum on a white background. Existing photograph by Hong Vo.

First Day City:  The First Day of Issue Ceremony was originally to be held at the WESTPEX Stamp Show in Burlingame, California, but the event was canceled due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.

History the stamp represents:  Chrysanthemums (also known as “mums”) are the most commercially grown flower in the United States. They are also nicknamed the “Queen of Fall Flowers.” Chrysanthemums are popular in other countries across the globe, too, with many interesting and unique significances depending on the culture.

Chrysanthemums were first grown in China around the 15th century BC. The species eventually spread to Japan and then the rest of the world. By 1630, over 500 varieties were known. In Japan, chrysanthemums symbolize happiness, immortality, and the sun. They are also a symbol of the Japanese imperial family – the “Chrysanthemum Throne.” In the United States, chrysanthemums are some of the most popular seasonal fall decorations. They come in a wide range of colors and can survive in colder temperatures compared to other flowers.

Chrysanthemums are beautiful plants mostly used for decoration, but there are some species with culinary uses, too. Certain chrysanthemum flowers can be dried and used in tea, while the leaves of these plants can be sautéed or used in soups (most commonly in Chinese or Japanese cuisines).

In 2020, the pictured a chrysanthemum on a Global Forever stamp. Given the flower’s global popularity, it was a fitting choice.