SHARKS
USPS 2017 Sharks Forever® Stamps – Sheet of 20
Celebrate the extraordinary power, remarkable diversity, and captivating beauty of some of the ocean's most fascinating predators with the USPS 2017 Sharks Forever® Stamps Sheet of 20. Officially issued by the United States Postal Service on July 26, 2017, this distinguished marine wildlife release honors five remarkable shark species whose unique physical characteristics, extraordinary adaptations, and essential ecological roles have fascinated scientists, naturalists, ocean explorers, and wildlife enthusiasts for generations. Sharks have inhabited Earth's oceans for hundreds of millions of years, evolving into an extraordinarily diverse group of marine animals that occupy environments ranging from shallow tropical reefs and coastal waters to the mysterious depths of the open ocean. Often misunderstood because of their formidable appearance and reputation as powerful predators, sharks are vital components of healthy marine ecosystems, helping maintain ecological balance through their interactions with other ocean species. Their remarkable sensory abilities, streamlined bodies, distinctive fins, and extraordinary hunting and feeding adaptations make them some of the most scientifically fascinating creatures in the natural world. From the powerful great white shark to the enormous yet gentle whale shark, these extraordinary animals demonstrate the remarkable variety of life found beneath the ocean's surface. Through its dramatic illustrations and educational presentation, this official USPS release celebrates the beauty, strength, and ecological importance of sharks while encouraging greater appreciation for marine biodiversity, ocean conservation, and the extraordinary wildlife inhabiting Earth's waters.
This official USPS sheet contains 20 First-Class Mail Forever® stamps featuring five distinctive shark illustrations, with each design appearing four times throughout the pane. Created from original artwork by accomplished illustrator Sam Weber, under the artistic direction of USPS art director Derry Noyes, the collection showcases five remarkable shark species: the great white shark, whale shark, shortfin mako shark, scalloped hammerhead shark, and tiger shark. Each carefully composed illustration captures the recognizable physical characteristics, natural movement, and distinctive appearance of its featured species, creating a visually compelling presentation of marine wildlife diversity. The great white shark, renowned for its powerful body and impressive predatory abilities, represents one of the ocean's most recognizable apex predators. The whale shark, the largest living fish species, is celebrated for its immense size, distinctive spotted pattern, and gentle filter-feeding behavior. The shortfin mako shark is recognized for its streamlined physique, remarkable speed, and extraordinary swimming abilities, making it one of the fastest sharks in the world's oceans. The scalloped hammerhead shark features an unmistakable hammer-shaped head, an extraordinary anatomical adaptation that contributes to its specialized sensory capabilities. Completing the collection, the tiger shark is distinguished by its powerful build and characteristic dark markings, particularly noticeable in younger individuals. Through Weber's expressive artistic approach, the five designs emphasize the natural elegance, dramatic presence, and remarkable adaptations of these extraordinary marine creatures. The carefully coordinated illustrations combine scientific interest with compelling visual storytelling, transforming each shark into a miniature work of wildlife art. Together, the five distinctive designs create an exceptional visual tribute to the remarkable diversity of sharks while reflecting the longstanding USPS tradition of celebrating wildlife, natural history, and the beauty of the natural world.
An exceptional addition to any distinguished stamp collection, the 2017 Sharks Forever® Stamps Sheet of 20 brings together marine biology, ocean conservation, wildlife illustration, natural history, and American postal heritage in one remarkable collectible offering. Whether preserved as part of a marine wildlife or ocean-themed stamp collection, displayed for its dramatic shark illustrations, or treasured by marine biologists, ocean enthusiasts, shark admirers, conservation supporters, wildlife art collectors, educators, and philatelists alike, this official USPS release offers a lasting celebration of some of the most extraordinary animals inhabiting Earth's oceans. Its five distinctive species illustrations, original artwork by Sam Weber, and educational emphasis on the remarkable diversity of shark life make it a meaningful addition to collections honoring marine ecosystems, aquatic wildlife, and the enduring relationship between scientific discovery and artistic expression. Beyond their impressive appearance, sharks represent the complexity and interconnected nature of marine environments, reminding us of the importance of understanding and protecting the extraordinary species that contribute to the health of our oceans. Their remarkable evolutionary history, specialized adaptations, and ecological significance continue to inspire scientific research and conservation efforts throughout the world. A distinguished tribute to the strength, beauty, and extraordinary diversity of marine wildlife, this official USPS issue preserves the fascinating world of sharks through the artistry and timeless tradition of American commemorative postage stamps.
Product Details
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Product: USPS 2017 Sharks Forever® Stamps
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Original Format: Complete Sheet of 20
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Stamps Per Sheet: 20
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Issue Year: 2017
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Stamp Type: USPS First-Class Mail Forever®
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Design: Sharks – Five Marine Wildlife Illustrations
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Unique Designs Per Sheet: 5
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Stamps Per Design: 4
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Featured Shark Species:
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Great White Shark
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Whale Shark
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Shortfin Mako Shark
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Scalloped Hammerhead Shark
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Tiger Shark
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Featured Themes: Sharks, Marine Wildlife, Ocean Conservation, Marine Biology, Natural History, and Biodiversity
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Wildlife Significance: Celebrates the Diversity and Ecological Importance of Sharks in Marine Ecosystems
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Artwork Style: Contemporary Marine Wildlife Illustration
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Design Characteristics: Five Coordinating Shark Portraits Highlighting Distinctive Anatomical Features and Natural Movement
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Original Artwork: Sam Weber
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Art Director: Derry Noyes
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Postal Use: Domestic First-Class Mail® One-Ounce Letter Rate
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Original Issue Date: July 26, 2017
Disclosures
Independent Business Disclosure
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Packaging & Fulfillment Notice
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Postal Use & Collector Value Notice
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Product Presentation Notice
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Stamp Information & Authenticity
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Trademark & Intellectual Property Notice
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Website Content & Information Notice
Independent Business Disclosure
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Packaging & Fulfillment Notice
•
Postal Use & Collector Value Notice
•
Product Presentation Notice
•
Stamp Information & Authenticity
•
Trademark & Intellectual Property Notice
•
Website Content & Information Notice

Packaging & Fulfillment Notice

Postal Use & Collector Value Notice

Product Presentation Notice

Stamp Information & Authenticity

Trademark & Intellectual Property Notice
