The U.S. Postal Service (USPS) has previewed its 2026 stamp program, showcasing a new set that celebrates the vibrant artistry and culture of lowrider cars. This collection pays homage to the custom car culture that has flourished in Mexican American and Chicano communities since the 1940s. The stamps feature five iconic vehicles that represent this unique automotive tradition.
The “Lowriders” stamp collection includes a blue 1946 Chevrolet Fleetline, named Let the Good Times Roll/Soy Como Soy, a blue 1958 Chevrolet Impala Eight Figures, a red 1963 Impala El Rey, an orange 1964 Impala Golden Rose, and a green 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme Pocket Change. These stamps highlight the artistry and craftsmanship associated with lowrider culture.
Artistic Design and Cultural Significance
Antonio Alcalá, the art director for USPS, designed the stamps using photographs by Philip Gordon and Humberto “Beto” Mendoza. The stamps feature Gothic-style typography and intricate pinstriping, reflecting the detailed craftsmanship that lowrider enthusiasts celebrate. According to the USPS press release, “Low and slow: that’s the lowrider.”
These customized automobiles have their roots in the working-class Mexican American and Chicano communities of the American Southwest, emerging prominently in the 1940s. The introduction of these stamps serves as a means to recognize and celebrate the contributions of Mexican American culture to the broader American narrative.
Broader Stamp Releases for 2026
The lowrider stamps will be available nationwide in both sheets and individual formats, joining other notable releases for 2026. These include stamps honoring cultural icons such as Muhammad Ali, Bruce Lee, and quilts by Harriet Powers. Additionally, a set will commemorate the 150th anniversary of Colorado statehood.
Lisa Bobb-Semple, director of USPS Stamp Services, emphasized the Postal Service’s commitment to recognizing diverse subjects through its stamp program. “This early preview of our 2026 stamp program underscores the Postal Service’s commitment to celebrating the artistry and storytelling that make stamps so special,” she stated. “From beloved series to bold new releases, we continue to honor the legacy of diverse subjects that connect people, places, and moments in history.”
Collectors and enthusiasts can purchase these stamps and related products online or at select post offices across the nation. The introduction of lowrider stamps provides a fresh avenue for celebrating Mexican American cultural contributions, particularly in communities like San Antonio, where Chicano car culture remains an integral part of local heritage.
