Lunar New Year: Year Of The Ox

Value:  66¢ 1-ounce First-class rate (Forever)

Issue Date:  February 2, 2021

First Day City:  Chicago, IL

Printed by:  Banknote Corporation of America

Printing Method:  Offset, foil stamping, flexographic, microprint

Format:  Pane of 20

The Second Animal in the Chinese Zodiac: The ox is the second in the 12-year Lunar New Year cycle. People commonly call it a cow, bull, or water buffalo instead of a true ox. The year of the Ox began on February 12, 2021.

Pairing with Elements: Each Chinese zodiac recurrence pairs with one of the “five elements” or “phases”: fire, water, wood, metal, and earth. In 2021, the phase was metal, designating it as the metal ox. The Chinese also assign zodiac animals to specific hours, with the ox’s hours falling between 1:00 a.m. and 3:00 a.m.

Ancient Chinese Astronomy: Chinese astronomers categorized zodiac stars into groups called the “28 Mansions” based on the moon’s monthly journey. The ox is in one of the northern mansions of the Black Tortoise; Western tradition places it in the constellation Capricornus.

Exploring Lunar New Year Traditions: Lunar New Year, among the intricate traditions of other cultures, stands out as one of the most interesting. Millions across the globe celebrate it yearly, enjoying meals with family and friends, festive decorations, and expressing hopes for good fortune in the coming year.