"There's a nice continuity [in celebrating both living and deceased writers]--it shows writers going out in the world, influencing the next generation." Miller said.

IGPC, which markets stamp ideas to 70 countries, usually takes two to three years to develop a stamp series. According to Lonnie Ostrow, head of IGPC media relations, developing this black literary figure series in under one year was "an exception because it was long overdue."

This morning at 10 a.m. at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C. there will be an issuing ceremony including a stamp unveiling by the living honorees and family members for the deceased honorees.

Gates will be the one living honoree not present at the ceremony.

Miller said that Gates wrote a statement that will be read at the ceremony.

"Gates wrote that he was humbled by the whole experience and is happy that it's happening. He never thought it would happen to him, and he particularly enjoys the Africa connection," Miller said.

Fittingly enough, Gates is in Ghana until November 23. Gates is currently narrating a film, Wonders of the African World, for BBC television, to be released in England in early 1999.

"I think it's a nice touch," Miller said. "He'll be in Ghana when his stamp comes out."

Gate's stamp can be ordered by calling 1-888-STAMP-97. A pack of 12 stamps sell