Arnold Palmer

World Stamp Today:

MARCH 4, 2020

One of the most famous golfers in the history of the sport was celebrated on a commemorative stamp issued on March 4, 2020. 

The U.S. Postal Service released the Arnold Palmer Commemorative Forever stamp to honor the iconic golfer (1929–2016) who rose from humble beginnings to become a champion.

“Arnold Palmer was not only a great American, but also a great golfer. Mr. Palmer was a transformative figure in the game of golf. He made it happen with his charisma, his personality and his rivalries with other golf greats,” said Roman Martinez IV, U.S. Postal Service Board of Governors. “But beyond golf, Arnold was really a great man. He had great character; he was a philanthropist and a great businessman. He was the perfect role model.” 

The stamp, designed by art director Antonio Alcala, features James Drake’s action photo of Palmer at the 1964 U.S. Open at Congressional Country Club in Bethesda, MD. 

Palmer’s name appears in the top left corner and the words “Forever” and “USA” are printed along the bottom of the left edge. 

Palmer is the fourth golfer to be celebrated on a U.S. stamp for his accomplishments. 

Mildred “Babe” Didrikson Zaharias (1911-56) and Bobby Jones (1902-71) were each honored on 18¢ stamps issued on Sept. 22, 1981. 

Jones was honored a second time on a 32¢ stamp issued in 1998 as part of the Celebrate the Century series. 

Francis Ouimet (1893-1967), was featured on a 25¢ stamp issued in 1988.

(Concept and research: Richard Allan Uy) All rights reserved