US introduces commemorative passport and stamp for 250th anniversary

The U.S. State Department unveiled a special‑edition passport to mark the 250th anniversary of American independence. The passport, available from July 6, features artwork commemorating the nation’s founding and will be presented in a box with a certificate of authenticity. Officials said the rollout is part of a broader effort to modernise the passport program, including plans to let applicants complete most of the process online and future editions that may include QR codes linking to historic videos. State Department spokesperson Marco Rubio said, "The passport is not just a travel document; it's incredibly valuable in what it represents."

In parallel, the United States Postal Service introduced a new Forever stamp honoring the Declaration of Independence. Unveiled at the B. Free Franklin Post Office in Philadelphia, the red‑white‑blue design shows the year 1776 rendered as feather quill pens. USPS Board of Governors secretary Lucy Trout said the stamp reflects the document’s lasting influence on “all people are created equal” and the nation’s “perpetual and honorable battle” to fulfill its promises. Both items are part of the nationwide Semiquincentennial celebrations.