United States Celebrates 250th Anniversary with Exclusive Commemorative Card Collection by Holland America Line and Crane, Highlighting U.S. Veterans’ Artistic Talent

Published on February 25, 2026

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In celebration of the United States’ 250th anniversary, Holland America Line has teamed up with Crane, the legendary American stationery brand, to offer a commemorative card collection like no other. This exclusive series not only marks a historic milestone but also shines a spotlight on the artistic talents of U.S. veterans. Designed by artists from the U.S. Veterans’ Artists Alliance (USVAA), each card reflects the veterans’ unique perspectives and creative expressions. The collaboration honors America’s heritage while supporting the careers of these veteran artists, allowing them to share their powerful stories through art. The collection will be available onboard Holland America Line’s ships, offering passengers a chance to connect with both the nation’s past and the voices of those who have served it. This commemorative card collection represents a fusion of history, craftsmanship, and the enduring spirit of service—truly embodying the essence of America’s 250 years.

The commemorative collection features 12 distinct cards, with four designs created by each artist. These designs are specifically crafted to represent Holland America Line’s 11 ships. Each card reflects the individual artist’s style and aesthetic, capturing the essence of their vision while honoring the broader historical context of the United States. The one-of-a-kind designs are printed on Crane’s signature American-made stationery, known for its exceptional quality. This unique collection will be available for purchase onboard Holland America Line’s ships starting in late April.

“There is power in bringing together two brands with such deep roots,” said Kacy Cole, chief marketing officer for Holland America Line. “Crane and Holland America Line share a belief in craftsmanship, authenticity and creating lasting memories. This collaboration allows us to translate that heritage into a tangible experience our guests can truly connect with.”

Crane, a company that has been part of American history for centuries, is renowned for providing paper to some of the nation’s most important moments. The brand’s history dates back to the time of Paul Revere, who used Crane paper to print the first paper money for the American Colonies. Over the years, Crane stationery has been the choice for numerous significant events. Invitations for the inaugurations of the Golden Gate Bridge and the Statue of Liberty, as well as holiday cards for the Roosevelts, were all printed on Crane paper. Most notably, Crane was the stationery brand selected by Jackie Kennedy for her personal correspondence, including sympathy cards following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. The quality and historical significance of Crane paper elevate this partnership with Holland America Line, as it links past and present through the artistry of U.S. veterans.

“We are honored to partner with Holland America Line, bringing together our shared commitment to artistry, storytelling and enduring design,” said Robert Buhler, CEO of Crane Stationery. “Both of our brands are grounded in American Heritage, legacy and fine craftsmanship, and this commemorative card collection serves as a lasting tribute to America’s 250th and the deep sense of pride, purpose and heritage reflected in the artists’ work.”

To further honor the service and artistic achievements of veterans, the 2026 Grand World Voyage aboard Holland America Line’s Volendam will feature a special event. A “veterans meet-up” will be held, inviting veterans on board to connect with one another. This unique gathering will be led by an officer who is also a veteran, alongside the President of Holland America Line. During this meet-up, veterans will have the opportunity to send well wishes to their fellow service members using the commemorative cards from the collection. This event not only honors veterans’ service but also strengthens the bonds of camaraderie among them during the voyage.

The collaboration with USVAA is an important element of this initiative. The U.S. Veterans’ Artists Alliance is an award-winning, multi-disciplinary non-profit arts organization founded in 2004. The organization was created by military veterans and artists with the goal of supporting and promoting the creative careers of veterans. Through this partnership, USVAA honors the service of the artists while simultaneously supporting their artistic careers and showcasing their powerful stories. The work of USVAA’s artists is a testament to the strength and resilience of veterans, who bring a unique perspective to their creative endeavors.

USVAA’s members come from a variety of artistic disciplines, including visual arts, music, film, and performance. Their works reflect the diverse experiences of veterans, and each piece tells a story that is both personal and universally impactful. The partnership with Crane and Holland America Line is a meaningful way to amplify the voices of these artists and highlight the important role that creativity plays in the healing and expression of veterans. It also provides a platform to honor their contributions not only to the arts but also to the nation’s history.

The commemorative cards are more than just souvenirs. They represent a blend of historical significance, creative expression, and the honoring of veterans. This collaboration exemplifies the power of art to connect people across generations and to celebrate the enduring spirit of service and creativity. As these cards are sold on board, they will serve as a lasting reminder of America’s 250th anniversary and the valuable contributions of U.S. veterans to the nation’s cultural fabric.

By bringing together a prestigious brand like Crane, the historical significance of Holland America Line, and the powerful voices of USVAA artists, this partnership underscores the deep connection between history, art, and service. It invites all to reflect on the past, celebrate the present, and look forward to a future shaped by creativity, service, and the shared experiences that bind us together.