The Postal Service’s Citizens’ Stamp Advisory Committee — known as CSAC — plays a central role in the stamp development process.
Established in 1957, CSAC consists of 10 to 15 people who are appointed by the postmaster general based on their expertise in history, science, education, art, design, literature, sports and other areas of public interest. There are currently 11 members on the committee.
CSAC meets quarterly and evaluates thousands of stamp proposals submitted by the public each year. Every proposal is presented without attribution and receives the same level of consideration. The committee then forwards its recommendations to the postmaster general, who makes the final decision.
After topics are approved, USPS works closely with professional art directors to develop the final stamp designs. Typically, the Postal Service produces about 20 or more stamps each year, including commemorative, mail-use, special and semipostal stamps.
Throughout the years, CSAC members have included such well-known Americans as artist Andrew Wyeth, author James Michener, actor Karl Malden, historian Henry Louis Gates Jr., sports commentator Richard “Digger” Phelps and former second lady Joan Mondale.
Anyone can suggest a stamp, but the proposal must be submitted in writing by U.S. Mail at least three years prior to the anticipated issuance year to allow enough time for research and clearances. The committee does not accept proposals in person, by telephone or email.
Stamp proposals should feature America or American-related topics, although other subjects may be considered if they’ve had a significant impact on American history, culture or environment.
There are some other rules, too:
• People cannot be considered for a stamp while they are alive, but they can be three years after their death.
• U.S. statehoods and events of historical significance are considered on anniversaries in multiples of 50 years.
• Negative events and disasters will not be commemorated.
More information, including the address for submitting a stamp idea, can be found on the CSAC page on usps.com.
“Primers,” a Postal Service explanatory column, appears occasionally in Link.
