US #5569-72

2021 Espresso Drinks

Stamps commemorate four of the most common espresso drinks in America – just in time for the 50th anniversary of Starbucks, the popular coffee chain that originated in the US (Seattle, Washington) and has spread worldwide.

Stamp Category:  Commemorative

Value:  55¢ First Class Mail Rate (Forever)

First Day of Issue:  April 9, 2021

First Day City:  Seattle, Washington

Quantity Issued:  200,000,000

Printed by:  Ashton Potter (USA) Ltd.

Printing Method:  Offset

Format:  Double-sided Booklets of 20

Tagging:  Nonphosphored Type III, Block Tag

Why the stamps were issued:  To celebrate Americans’ love of coffee – especially the growing popularity of espresso drinks.

About the stamp designs:  Includes four designs picturing digital illustrations of a caffe latte, espresso, caffe mocha, and cappuccino.  The names of each drink are included below the cups in art-deco-style font.  Original artwork by Terry Allen.

First Day City:  The First Day of Issue Postmark was from Seattle, Washington, the birthplace and home base of Starbucks.

History the stamp represents:  In today’s fast-paced world, caffeine is more widely consumed than ever.  And one of the most popular ways people get it is with coffee.  Sometimes it is only in the morning, but many people drink it throughout the day.  However, it can be nice to slow down and have coffee that is a little more special.  That’s where espresso drinks come in.

Espresso originate din Italy, but has since spread throughout the world.  It has even become popular in America.  In fact, in 2021, the United States Postal Service issued four new Forever stamps celebrating espresso drinks.  They picture the caffè latte, espresso, caffè mocha, and cappuccino.  These are some of the most widely consumed espresso drinks in America, though there are many others.

Most Americans get their espresso fix from big-name coffee shops like Starbucks.  However, the best place to get an espresso drink is a café with baristas trained in the Italian method of brewing and preparing these beverages.  It can be hard to find these places, as they are often tucked away in the most unlikely of areas.  But once you do, the espresso you enjoy there will be like no other you have ever had.

The next time you crave espresso, find a local café to enjoy it.  It will be well worth it.  And, of course, supporting a local business makes it even better!