National Marine Sanctuaries Forever Stamps

Value: 78¢ First-Class Mail Rate (Forever)
First Day of Issue: August 5, 2022
First Day City: Santa Cruz, California
Printed by: Ashton Potter (USA) Ltd.
Printing Method: Offset
Format: Panes of 16

This commemorative Forever stamp celebrates the 50th anniversary of the National Marine Sanctuary System. It features a striking photograph of a humpback whale from the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary, highlighting the beauty and importance of America’s protected marine environments.

The First Day of Issue ceremony was held at the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center in Santa Cruz, California — a fitting venue honoring the system’s dedication to preserving marine life and cultural treasures.

Part of a 16-stamp set, the National Marine Sanctuaries series showcases the extraordinary diversity of wildlife and historic artifacts safeguarded by the sanctuary system across U.S. waters.

The Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary covers 1,400 square miles and protects thousands of North Pacific humpback whales during their annual migration to breed, give birth, and nurse their young. This seasonal gathering offers scientists unparalleled opportunities to study whale behavior — from breaching and tail slaps to the haunting mystery of their songs — deepening our understanding of these magnificent creatures and the ecosystems they inhabit.