California Dogface Forever Stamp 2019
Issued to Continue the Legacy: The Non-Machinable Butterfly Stamp Series
The latest addition to the Non-Machinable Butterfly stamp series not only covers the non-machinable surcharge rate but also perpetuates a cherished tradition of celebrating the beauty of butterflies. Captured in a stunning digital illustration, the stamp features the exquisite California dogface butterfly, meticulously rendered by artist Tom Engeman with reference to preserved specimens.
With its First Day of Issue postmark originating from Kansas City, Missouri, the headquarters of Stamp Cancellation Services, this stamp embodies a seamless blend of artistry and functionality. It continues the legacy of the Non-Machinable Butterfly series, which commenced on May 17, 2010, with the issuance of the 64 Monarch Butterfly design.
Crafted to adorn greeting cards and envelopes that require additional postage or defy automated sorting, these stamps symbolize the enduring partnership between the USPS and the greeting card industry. Each stamp in the series, including the California Dogface Butterfly, represents a commitment to both aesthetic excellence and practical utility.
The California dogface butterfly itself holds a special place in the ecosystem of Central and Southern California, where its presence has earned it the distinction of being the official state insect since 1972. Thriving in wooded areas and sustained by the nectar of purple flowers like thistles, this species is a testament to the delicate balance of nature.
Distinguished by its distinctive yellow-orange wings adorned with black sections resembling a dog's face, the male California dogface butterfly is a captivating sight. Conversely, the females boast a uniform yellow hue punctuated by singular dark spots on each forewing.
Despite its limited range and elusive nature, the California dogface butterfly remains a coveted subject for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. Its fleeting appearances, coupled with its rapid flight, underscore the rarity and allure of encountering this majestic creature in its natural habitat.
In commemorating the California dogface butterfly, this stamp not only pays homage to a unique species but also invites us to marvel at the wonders of the natural world and the intricate tapestry of life it encompasses.
