1993-96 Garden Flowers Series

U.S. #2760/3029: 1993-96 Garden Flowers Series

Stamp Category: Commemorative
Set: Garden Flowers
Value: 29¢-32¢
First Day of Issue:

• Garden Flowers: May 15, 1993
• Summer Garden Flowers: April 28, 1994
• Fall Garden Flowers: September 19, 1995
• Winter Garden Flowers: January 19, 1996
  First Day Cities: Spokane, Washington; Cincinnati, Ohio; Encinitas, California; Kennett Square, Pennsylvania
  Quantity Issued:
• 1993 Garden Flowers: 199,784,000
• 1994 Summer Garden Flowers: 166,014,000
• 1995 Fall Garden Flowers: 200,000,000
• 1996 Winter Garden Flowers: 160,000,000
  Printed by: Bureau of Engraving and Printing
  Printing Method: Lithographed, engraved
  Perforations:
• Garden Flowers: 10.9
• Summer Garden Flowers: 11.9 vertically
• Fall Garden Flowers: 10.9 vertically
• Winter Garden Flowers: 10.9 vertically

Why the stamps were issued: The Garden Flowers Series was introduced in response to consumer demand for "bright, pretty American stamps." With flowers being a popular subject, the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) aimed to please the public by issuing stamps featuring garden flowers that bloom in each season.

About the stamp designs: Engraved by Richard Everett of the Bureau of Engraving and Printing, the stamps featured artwork by Ned Seidler. The designs depicted bouquets spread across five stamps, with multiple blooms of each flower contained in each stamp. Seidler's paintings were based on photographs and flower books, created through a combination of watercolor and gouache.

Special design details: The Garden Flowers and Summer Garden Flowers booklets have been found with two different errors - missing the black intaglio printing (denomination, USA, and flower name) and imperforate.

About the printing process: The 1993 Garden Flowers booklet was the first to be produced on the new Goebel booklet machine, which was the first to print multicolor covers. Subsequent booklets in the series were also produced on this machine.

Unusual facts about these stamps: The 1994 Summer Garden Flowers booklet included a stamp titled "Gladiola," which sparked controversy as some argued that the correct name is "gladiolus." The USPS defended its choice, opting for the more popular term "gladiola." Similarly, the 1995 Fall Garden Flowers booklet faced criticism for its selection of flowers that bloom at different times in various regions. However, the USPS clarified that the series aimed for mass-market appeal rather than botanical accuracy.

About the Garden Flower Series: Originating from the 1992 Wildflowers issue, the Garden Flowers Series emerged as an extension of the previous project. While initially intended as sketches of garden flowers, the USPS embraced the idea of showcasing wildflowers. However, the concept of garden flowers persisted due to its potential to meet consumer demand. Spanning from 1993 to 1996, the series featured booklets of five stamps portraying garden flowers blooming in each season.

History the stamp represents: Garden flowers, cultivated from wildflowers, have been a cherished aspect of human culture since ancient times. These flowers, scientifically bred for vibrant colors and attractive blossoms, encompass various groups such as annuals, biennials, and perennials. The Garden Flowers Series celebrates the rich history and diversity of garden flora, from the Arctic to tropical regions, catering to the aesthetic preferences of garden enthusiasts.