An additional $1.00 postage is required for Express Mail® rate. The U.S. Postal Service honors nearly 250 years of California history with the issuance of the Carmel Mission Express Mail stamp. Often described as one of the most beautiful mission churches in the state, Carmel Mission is known for its dome-shaped bell tower and elaborate star-shaped window.

In saturated colors reminiscent of a vintage poster, the stamp art depicts the façade of the Carmel Mission church in Carmel, California.

Formally known as Mission San Carlos Borroméo del Río Carmelo, Carmel Mission was founded on June 3, 1770. It was the second in what would become a chain of 21 Spanish missions along the coast of California, each positioned about one day’s ride on horseback from the next. It was also the second mission established by Father Junípero Serra (1713-1784), the founder of the California mission system. Father Serra is buried in the mission church.

This historic site is open to the public and welcomes some 150,000 visitors each year.

Designed by art director Phil Jordan, the stamp features an illustration created by artist Dan Cosgrove. The "Carmel Mission" Express Mail stamps are being issued in self-adhesive sheets of 10 at the $18.95 rate, or $189.50 per sheet.

Made in the USA.

Requests for more than 5 per item may not be pre-packaged, and may be converted to full sheets or rolls. Full sheets and rolls will not be converted. Custom orders for more than 5 pre-packaged sub-units may be requested by calling 1 800 STAMP-24 (1 800 782-6724): Custom Order fees will apply.

Issue Date: February 28, 2012

SKUs featured on this page: 113640, 113620, 113610