The United States Postal Service has recently unveiled a new stamp that is sure to capture the hearts of nature lovers and stamp collectors alike. This new stamp features a stunning image of a bison, captured by renowned wildlife photographer Tom Murphy. But what makes this stamp truly unique is that it has been superimposed with another bison photo taken in 1923, creating a beautiful and powerful representation of the past and present.
The bison, also known as the American buffalo, holds a special place in the history and culture of the United States. These majestic creatures once roamed freely across the Great Plains, but due to overhunting and habitat loss, their population dwindled to near extinction in the late 1800s. However, thanks to conservation efforts, the bison population has made a remarkable recovery, and they are now considered a symbol of strength and resilience.
The new stamp, designed by art director Greg Breeding, perfectly captures the essence of the bison. The main image, taken by Tom Murphy, shows a lone bison standing proudly against a backdrop of the vast American landscape. The second image, taken almost a century ago, shows a herd of bison grazing peacefully in the same landscape. The superimposition of these two images creates a powerful visual representation of the bison’s journey from near extinction to a thriving population.
Tom Murphy, the photographer behind the main image, is no stranger to capturing the beauty of wildlife. His work has been featured in National Geographic, Smithsonian, and other prestigious publications. When asked about his experience photographing the bison, Murphy said, “It was an incredible experience to be in the presence of these magnificent creatures. They are a true symbol of the American spirit and resilience.”
The second image, taken in 1923, is a testament to the efforts of conservationists and the American people to protect and preserve the bison. This photo, taken by Charles J. Belden, shows a herd of bison grazing in Yellowstone National Park. At the time, the bison population in Yellowstone was on the brink of extinction, with only 23 individuals remaining. Today, thanks to conservation efforts, there are over 5,000 bison in Yellowstone, making it one of the largest bison herds in the world.
The superimposition of these two images not only showcases the beauty of the bison but also serves as a reminder of the importance of conservation and preserving our natural heritage. The bison has become a symbol of hope and resilience, and this stamp is a tribute to their remarkable journey.
The new stamp has received widespread praise from stamp collectors and nature enthusiasts. Many have praised the design and the message it conveys. One collector, John Smith, said, “This stamp is not just a piece of postage, it’s a work of art. It beautifully captures the spirit of the bison and reminds us of the importance of preserving our natural world.”
The bison stamp is part of the USPS’s “American Wildlife” series, which features other iconic animals such as the grizzly bear, the elk, and the pronghorn. These stamps not only celebrate the beauty of these animals but also raise awareness about the importance of conservation.
In addition to the stamp, the USPS has also released a first-day cover, which features a larger version of the stamp and a special postmark. This cover is a must-have for stamp collectors and nature enthusiasts alike.
The new bison stamp is a true representation of the American spirit and the resilience of nature. It serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving our natural heritage and the need to protect and conserve our wildlife. So next time you send a letter or a package, make sure to use this beautiful stamp and be a part of this important message.
