First U.S. Express Mail Stamp
On August 12, 1983, the USPS issued its first Express mail stamp, though the service, and those like it, had been available for several years.
Postal History
First US Semipostal
On July 29, 1998, the USPS issued its first Semipostal stamp to fund breast cancer research. The stamp raised over $78 million and was the first of several US Semipostals to raise money for worthy causes.
Ben Franklin Appointed America’s First Postmaster General
On July 26, 1775, former deputy postmaster general of the American colonies, Ben Franklin, was made the first postmaster general of the United States. He revolutionized mail service in the young nation at a crucial time in our history.
Modern Imperforates
On July 20, 2012, the USPS issued the first of several modern stamps in imperforate press sheets, which caused quite a stir in the stamp world!
First BEP Postage Stamp
On July 18, 1894, the post office issued the first US postage stamp printed by the Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP). for the next 75 years, the BEP produced nearly all US stamps.
National Parks Issue
On July 16, 1934, the first stamp in the National Parks Series was issued, honoring Yosemite National Park. The series was issued to raise awareness of America’s national parks, and was part of the Infamous Farley’s Follies…
World Stamp Expo 2000
World Stamp Expo 2000 opened on July 7, 2000. Several US postal firsts were issued during the show, including the first round, pentagonal, and holographic stamps.
Bicentenary Statehood Series
On July 4, 1987, the USPS issued the first in a series of stamps honoring America’s first 13 states. The series honored each state’s 200th anniversary of statehood as well as the bicentennial of the ratification of the Constitution.
Rush Lamp Stamp Issued
On July 2, 1979, the USPS issued the $1 Rush stamp, which would lead to one of the most fascinating stamp controversies of the late 20th century.