Spooky Silhouettes Forever Stamps

Value: 78¢ 1-ounce First-Class Rate (Forever)
Issue Date: October 11, 2019
Printed by: Ashton Potter (USA) Ltd.
Printing Method: Flexographic with Rainbow Foil
Format: Pane of 20

Black cats have long been associated with mystery and superstition, making them an enduring Halloween symbol. In the United States, many still believe that crossing paths with a black cat brings bad luck, while in other cultures, black cats are considered a sign of good fortune.

This superstition traces back to the Pilgrims, whose strict religious beliefs led them to condemn anything linked to perceived evil. Black cats were thought to be witches’ familiars—companions of those accused of practicing dark magic. Both cats and their owners often suffered harsh punishments during this period.

Although modern attitudes have softened, the lingering air of mystery around black cats continues to influence their connection to Halloween. It’s fitting, then, that a sleek black cat was chosen as one of the subjects for the U.S. Postal Service’s 2019 Spooky Silhouettes Forever stamps, celebrating the season with an iconic touch of eerie charm.