12 People Choose U.S. Stamps—And You Can Help

Ivan Cash spent six years running an art project called Snail Mail My Email, where 2,000 volunteers helped him turn strangers' digital messages into beautiful handwritten letters mailed around the world for free. That love letter to old-fashioned mail earned him an unexpected invitation: joining the Citizens' Stamp Advisory Committee.

Cash is now one of just 12 people who decide what images appear on U.S. postage stamps. The committee meets four times a year in Washington, D.C., gathering around a table to debate which subjects deserve a spot on our nation's tiny works of art.

The committee includes experts in history, science, technology, art, education, sports, and other fields. They've been doing this work since 1957, advising the Postmaster General on stamp designs that celebrate the American experience.

Here's the best part: the committee bases its decisions on public submissions. Anyone can mail in an idea for a stamp subject.

Some of America's most beloved stamps came straight from regular people. The Ansel Adams photography series, the Underground Railroad commemoration, Bruce Lee, Betty White, Dungeons and Dragons, and even the iconic Moon Landing stamp all started as public suggestions.

The Ripple Effect

Cash's message is spreading fast, with thousands of people already proposing ideas in his comments. Many are campaigning for a Dolly Parton stamp, and Cash confirms that all it takes is someone mailing in the suggestion.

The process is refreshingly simple in our complicated digital age. No online forms or apps required—just write a letter explaining your idea and mail it to the Stamp Development office at 475 L'Enfant Plaza SW, Room 3300, Washington, DC 20260-3501.

The Postal Service looks for subjects that honor extraordinary and enduring contributions to American society, history, culture, or environment. Your childhood hero, a groundbreaking scientist, or a moment in history that moved you could become the next stamp millions of Americans use.

Cash's journey from celebrating handwritten letters to helping design stamps shows how small creative projects can open unexpected doors—and now he's opening that door wider for everyone else.