Holiday Wreaths

$29.99$250.00

Part of what makes the holiday season so enjoyable is the beauty and nostalgia of the many different decorations. There is garland, twinkling lights, jolly snowmen, Christmas trees, and, of course, wreaths.

Value:  66¢ 1-ounce First-class rate (Forever)
Issue Date:  October 25, 2019
First Day City:  Freeport, ME
Printed by:  Banknote Corporation of America
Printing Method:  Offset
Format:  Double-sided Booklet of 20

Holly and ivy have been symbols of the holiday season since the early 1800s.  They are featured in the famous carol “The Holly and the Ivy” and are used as decorations in homes all over the world.

Like the other evergreen plants found during the winter season, holly and ivy have a variety of decorative uses.  They are draped over the mantle, wrapped around staircase banisters, used to frame doorways, and even included in holiday wreaths.  Holly is especially popular due to its bright red berries, but some species of ivy produce berries as well (though they are usually white or pale yellow).

In Christianity, holly represents the newborn baby Jesus, while ivy represents his mother, the VIrgin Mary.  In Old World heraldry (symbols used on banners, crests, and other similar items), holly is a symbol of truth.  Other cultures believe holly to be protective against evil, especially when the leaves are worn in the hair.  Similar traits are associated with ivy, too, though it is also said to be a symbol of love and friendship.

In 2019, the United States Postal Service released a set of four Holiday Wreaths stamps with one picturing a wreath made from holly and ivy.  Between the cultural traditions of the plants and their lasting beauty, there can be no better choice for a front door holiday wreath.

Additional information

Format

Book

Issue Year

2019

Mail Service

First-Class Mail

Product Type

Forever