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Anticipation grows for Muppet stamps

Stamp collectors and fans alike await the September release of 11 Muppet stamps

By Greg James
April 11, 2005

The U.S. Postal Service announced last year that the late Jim Henson and his beloved Muppets would grace a panel of 11 postage stamps to be released in 2005. But the officials never dreamed how great the reaction would be. The stamps feature 13 Muppet characters (Kermit, Fozzie, Sam Eagle, Miss Piggy, Statler & Waldorf, The Swedish Chef, Animal, Dr. Bunsen & Beaker, Rowlf, and Gonzo & Camellia) and one stamp of Jim Henson.

In the past few months the Muppet stamps quickly rose as one of the most anticipated stamp collections. Not only have the fans celebrated this news, but the media has reacted to this release and are sharing the news about these stamps in newspapers, magazines, and more. The USPS is excited about the building awareness and excitement, and it is believed that these stamps will be hot items – similar to when Bugs Bunny appeared on a stamp in the 1997 and Elvis in 1993. But unlike the big hit stamps of the past, this is more than one or two stamps, it is a whole series of stamps (11 to be exact). Needless to say, the post office, Muppet fans, and stamp collectors are very excited about this release.

The stamps, originally slated for a March release, were moved back to be released in September. Aside from giving the postal service more time to get ready for the release, the push-back now allows the stamps to be a reverent tribute to their inspiration. By releasing the stamps in September they are able to coincide the release (September 14) with Jim Henson’s Birthday (September 24). Jim would have been 69 in September. 2005 marks the 15th anniversary of his death on May 16.

Vanessa Patterson, a spokeswoman for the U.S. Postal Services' commemorative stamp program said despite the push-back with the Muppet series, next month's stamp honoring late actor Henry Fonda is schedule to be released May 16, (on what would have been his 100th birthday), and the highly anticipated Muppet stamps will be released on September 14.

Whether they are framed and hung on the wall or used to send letters to friends or co-workers, these stamps are certain to be a delight to any Muppet fan. The souvenir sheet of stamps will be able to be bought through the USPS Online Store or at local post offices on September 14, 2005.

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