1990 Idaho Statehood, 100th Anniv. Plate Block of 4 25c Postage Stamps - MNH, OG - Sc# 2439

On January 6 1990 in Boise ID the USPS celebrated the centennial of the state of Idaho, admitted to the Union on July 3 1890. Idaho is nicknamed the Gem State because it is one of only two places in the world where star garnets can be found (the other is the Himalaya Mountains, in India), and is the only place six pointed star garnets have been found. The state bird is the Mountain Bluebird, shown here on the stamp. It is a medium-sized bird weighing about an ounce, with a length from 15-20 cm (6-8 in). They have light underbellies and black eyes. Adult males have thin bills. They are bright blue and somewhat lighter beneath. Adult females have duller blue wings and tail, grey breast, grey crown, throat and back.