It started half a century ago at Detroit's first post-war motor show. Since then, the flight of the Thunderbird has included sporty two-seaters, convertibles and four-door models, as well as hardtops and sedans - more than 1.2 million in total. Over the years, the Thunderbird has sported the "square" look, the "projectile" look, the jet aircraft look and the luxury look. Yet, through the years and through many changes, Thunderbird's original uniqueness and individuality managed to etch itself permanently into the hearts and memories of the American motoring public. The current version continues to be successful in its mission: it has drawn more new customers to Ford and has higher customer satisfaction than any other Ford vehicle.

The other sporty cars of the 1950s being honoured with a commemorative stamp are a 1954 Kaiser Darrin, a 1953 Chevrolet Corvette, a 1952 Nash Healey and a 1953 Studebaker Starlight.