U.S. #2284-85
1987 25¢ Grosbeak and Owl
Issue Date: May 28, 1988
City: Arlington, VA
Quantity: 1,706,910,000
Printed By: Bureau of Engraving and Printing
Printing Method: Photogravure
Perforations: 10
Color: Multicolored
The Grosbeak/Owl booklet, like the pheasant booklet, was originally going to feature one bird. However, when the USPS saw artist Chuck Ripper’s designs, they were so pleased they decided to use both of them. The booklet is arranged in a unique checkerboard pattern to accommodate both subjects. A member of the finch family, the rose-breasted grosbeak is found mainly in the Northeast.
Like many of our other fine-feathered friends, the bright colors are restricted to the males. Nearly the same size as the grosbeak, the saw-whet owl is one of the smallest birds of prey. His fine-tuned senses, such as binocular-like eyesight and his keen hearing, plus the fluffy plumage, which allows him to swoop down silently on his prey, make him a superb hunter.
Please note: Due to the layout of the pane, the se-tenant may or may not be provided in Scott Catalogue order.