Purple Martin Stamped Envelope

When purchasing a pre-stamped envelope, it was surprising to note it featured the Purple Martin. What an appropriate stamp to be using here in the river city. A comment was made about the species and the clerk -- with an apparent interest in birds -- got so flummoxed that she lost track of the amount to charge and how much change to provide. And then the charge was 55 cents, rather than the 45 cents indicated as being the proper cost.


"On January 23, 2012, in Mulberry, Florida, the Postal Service™ will issue a Purple Martin stamped envelope (Forever® priced at 45 cents).


"The U.S. Postal Service^® celebrates the largest swallow in North America with issuance of Purple Martin Stamped Envelope. The highly realistic stamp art includes a large illustration of a purple martin perching and a smaller illustration showing the bird in flight. Art director William J. Gicker designed the stamps, using illustrations by artist Matthew Frey."


It seem appropriate that it says "Forever U.S.A." and though this is provided for service reasons, it seems to be an appropriate statement regarding this iconic species that will hopefully be forever enjoyed.