Year of the Ox Stamps 2021

The Year of the Ox is second in a new series of Lunar New Year stamps introduced in 2020. The first Lunar New Year stamp series ran from 1992 to 2005 and the second series from 2008 to 2019.

The mask design on the stamp incorporates elements with symbolic meaning. Several of the patterns were created with the style of Asian textiles. Purple flowers represent the arrival of spring, which Lunar New Year also signals in Chinese culture. The star in the center of the ox’s head references the celestial themes of the Chinese zodiac.

Art director Antonio Alcalá designed the stamp with original artwork by Camille Chew. This Forever stamp is being sold in panes of 20 and will always be equal in value to the current First-Class Mail 1-ounce price.

The Year of the Ox begins Feb. 12, 2021, and ends Jan. 31, 2022. Personality traits and other attributes associated with the Chinese zodiac animals are thought to be common to people born in the years represented by those animals as well. For example, beliefs hold oxen — and those born in the Year of the Ox —  to be honest, diligent and highly dependable.

There are many traditions for ringing in a new year of good luck and prosperity. In communities across the United States, people shop for holiday food and other supplies, hang decorations and ceremoniously clean their homes to welcome the year with a fresh start.

Stamps per Pane: Pane of 20 (1 design)