2021 Heritage Breeds Forever Stamps

Value: 78¢ – First-Class Mail Rate (Forever)
Issue Date: May 17, 2021
First Day City: Mount Vernon, Virginia
Printed by: Banknote Corporation of America
Printing Method: Offset, Flexographic
Format: Pane of 20

In 2021, the United States Postal Service issued a series of Forever stamps honoring heritage breeds, recognizing their vital role in America’s agricultural history.

This design features a striking photograph of a Milking Devon cow by Aliza Elizarov, highlighting one of the country’s oldest and most versatile cattle breeds. The First Day of Issue ceremony was held at Mount Vernon, Virginia, celebrating the cultural and horticultural importance of these historic animals.

The Heritage Breeds set also included images of the mulefoot hog, Wyandotte chicken, Narragansett turkey, and others, drawing attention to rare livestock that once shaped rural life across the nation.

The Milking Devon traces its American lineage to cattle imported in 1623. Initially valued for their strength in draft work, these medium-sized, well-tempered cows later became prized for both their rich milk and high-quality meat. Though they eventually fell out of widespread use, dedicated breeders today are preserving and celebrating their remarkable traits — ensuring this living piece of agricultural heritage endures.