To distinguish this stamp from other Forever stamps, the shape of the international stamp is round and bears the words “Global Forever.”

Wreaths have an ancient history, though their exact origins are uncertain. Evidence points to the use of wreaths by pre-Christian Germanic people in Northern Europe in the fourth century. Decorated with lighted candles, their wreaths symbolized the hope that spring would come after the dark days of winter. By the 16th century, Christians in Germany used lighted wreaths during Advent, the season leading up to celebration of the Nativity of Christ. From Germany, the use of the Advent wreath spread rapidly to other areas of the Christian world.

The word “wreath” comes from the Middle English word “wrethe,” which means something twisted into a circular form. The circle symbolizes immortality, while the evergreens that traditionally make up the circle represent the continuance of life through the dark months. For Christians, the green circle of the wreath symbolizes the eternity of God and belief in eternal life through Christ.

Evergreens are still a popular component of many holiday wreaths. However, wreaths now come in all shapes, sizes, and materials. Made from plants like eucalyptus, laurel, pine boughs, and mistletoe, or from material like glass, wood, paper, and wire, wreaths can be shaped into stars, circles, squares, ovals — almost any shape is possible.

Decorations are limited only by the imagination. Some wreaths, like those that decorate the doorways of Colonial Williamsburg during the holidays, are festooned with dried flowers, okra pods, cotton bolls, and other natural material. Other wreaths have their stylistic origins in the work of 15th-century Florentine sculptor Lucca della Robbia. The della Robia wreaths are decorated with fresh fruit and flowers. Whether decorated with holly berries, ribbons, bows, small gift packages, pinecones, glass ornaments, teddy bears, or model cars, wreaths accommodate almost any style or interest.

Hung on doors or in windows during the holidays, wreaths symbolize the festive spirit that dwells within.