The unique artistic talent of the great American illustrators of the last quarter of the 19th century and the first half of the 20th lives forever.

In tribute to these men and women, the U.S. Postal Service issued a pane of 20 stamps last year showing their work.

The honored artists are: James Montgomery Flagg, Mitchell Mayfield Parrish, J.C. Leyendecker, Robert Fawcett, Coles Phillips, Al Parker, P.J. Frost, Howard Pyle, Rose O’Neill, Dean Cornwall, Edwin Austin Abbey, Jessie Wilcox Smith, Nesa McNein, Jon Whitcomb, Harvey Dunn, Frederick Remington, Rockwell Kent, Norman Rockwell, N.C. Wyeth and John Held Jr.

Their illustrations graced the pages of books, advertisements, magazines, murals, posters and other works of art. Even today, these works serve as an invaluable artistic chronicle of American culture.

This was before television, when many of these artists were celebrities themselves.

Flagg’s distinctive version of Uncle Sam still is copied and revived. Remington’s work of the Old West is considered a classic.

Dunn and Whitcomb’s illustrations of war documented the realities of battle. And who will forget Nesa McNein’s portrait of Rosie the Riveter?

You can get these 20 stamps by calling the USPS Stamp Fulfillment Services at (800) STAMP-24. Or visit the Postal Service at www.stampsonline.com.