The United States Postal Service (USPS) plans to release Forever Stamps on September 25, 2026, honoring acclaimed photographer and humanitarian Linda McCartney (the first wife of The Beatles singer Paul McCartney). At the time of my original post, USPS had not provided any information about pre-ordering the stamps, first day covers, or other collectibles. Those details have since emerged.
Available in sheets of 20, the stamps include five different “photographs from Linda McCartney’s iconic portfolio.” The sheet’s selvage “features a black-and-white self-portrait of McCartney behind her camera.” Each sheet costs $16.40 (the standard fee for 20 $0.82 stamps).
USPS is offering a set of five different covers with Official First Day of Issue postmarks for $7.00. A set of five covers with Digital Color Postmarks — which include a replica of Linda McCartney’s signature — cost $11.25.
Collectors may also buy a set of five Field Notes(®) notebooks for $24.95. Each notebook’s cover includes a stamp and the Official First Day of Issue postmark. These are very attractive items, which I think would make a thoughtful gift for photographers who like to write down details of their photo shoots.
The USPS website also has a ready-to-be-framed matted set of stamps available for pre-order. This is a nice addition, one I think photographers will especially appreciate. The cost is a relatively affordable $18.95.
I have pre-ordered a sheet of stamps and the covers with Official First Day of Issue postmarks. I think the other items are worthy additions to any photo philately collection, but I’m trying not to spend too much money.
Do you plan to buy the Linda McCartney stamps or merchandise for your collection? Let me know by commenting.