At a Glance
- Muhammad Ali will appear on a U.S. Forever Stamp for the first time
- Ceremony set for Thursday in Louisville, Kentucky
- 22 million stamps printed; no reprint once sold out
- Why it matters: Collectors and fans get a permanent tribute to the boxing legend and humanitarian
Muhammad Ali’s joke about becoming a postage stamp is now reality. The three-time heavyweight champion, known for athletic brilliance and political conviction, will be honored with a commemorative U.S. stamp unveiling Thursday.
The Stamp Design
The Muhammad Ali Forever Stamp features a 1974 black-and-white Associated Press photo of Ali in his classic boxing pose. Each sheet of 20 stamps also includes an image of Ali in a pinstripe suit, highlighting his activism and humanitarian work.
Key details:
- 22 million stamps printed
- No reprints once inventory sells out
- Valid First-Class Mail postage forever
Lonnie Ali, the champ’s wife of nearly 30 years, told Sophia A. Reynolds she is “thrilled, excited, ecstatic” about the tribute. “Every time people look at that stamp, they will remember him,” she said.
Journey to the Stamp
The idea surfaced shortly after Ali’s 2016 death. USPS rules require individuals to be deceased at least three years before appearing on a stamp, with presidential exceptions. Lisa Bobb-Semple, USPS director of stamp services, said the #GetTheChampAStamp campaign helped build public support.
Process overview:
- Citizen Stamp Advisory Committee reviews public suggestions quarterly
- About 20-25 commemorative issues released yearly
- Art directors design after selection; legal staff rigorously review
- Antonio Alcalá, art director and designer, chose the final AP image from hundreds
Beyond Boxing
Ali, born Cassius Clay Jr., converted to Islam in the 1960s and refused induction into the U.S. Army in 1967, citing religious beliefs and opposition to the Vietnam War. The stance cost him his heavyweight title and barred him from boxing for more than three years. The U.S. Supreme Court overturned his draft-evasion conviction in 1971.
Later, Ali became a global humanitarian promoting peace and charity even while living with Parkinson’s disease for over three decades. Lonnie Ali hopes the stamp reminds people to practice daily compassion. “We have to mobilize Muhammad’s life,” she said.
Ceremony Details
The first-day-of-issue ceremony takes place in Louisville, Kentucky, Ali’s birthplace and home of the Muhammad Ali Center. Stamps go on sale immediately afterward.
Key Takeaways
- First U.S. stamp honoring Muhammad Ali
- Limited 22 million print run
- Forever Stamp ensures lasting validity
- Unveiling Thursday in Louisville
