First Cut-to-Shape US Stamps
On January 28, 1999, the USPS issued its first stamps to be cut in the shape of the image. The stamps were die-cut in the shape of Victorian Valentines.
Postal History
First US Love Stamp
On January 26, 1973, the USPS issued its first Love stamp. It was years before the next Love stamp was issued and even longer before the USPS officially declared it a series.
First US Commemorative Booklet
On January 23, 1986, the USPS issued its first commemorative booklet, which honored stamp collecting. Promoting the upcoming AMERIPEX, it was also a joint issue with Sweden that honored 100th anniversary of the American Philatelic Society.
American Credo Series
On January 20, 1960, the US Post Office Department issued the first stamp in the American Credo Series. The stamps feature quotes from notable Americans, honoring “the ideals upon which America was founded.”
America’s First Airmail Coil Stamp
The first US Airmail coil stamp was issued on January 15, 1948, in Washington, DC. Only a few more coil stamps would be issued over the next 30 years, but the DC-4 SkyMaster would appear on more than a dozen postal items.
Return of Official Mail Stamps
On January 12, 1983, Official Mail stamps were issued for the first time in 72 years. They were created to increase government postage accountability and remained in use until 2009.
First Stamp with Mr. Zip in the Selvage
On January 10, 1964, Mr. Zip first appeared in the selvage of a stamp sheet honoring Texas icon Sam Houston. Created to help promote the use of ZIP Codes, he appeared in the selvage of more than 350 stamp sheets over 20 years.
First Definitive U.S. Flag Stamp
On January 9, 1963, the US Post Office issued its first definitive stamp to feature the US flag as its main subject, flying over the White House. This began a long-running tradition of “flag over…” stamps.
First Postal Savings Stamps Issued
On January 3, 1911, America issued its first Postal Savings stamps. The Postal Savings System was established to serve small investors living in rural communities. Under the program, lower- and middle-income individuals were able to deposit funds at their local post office.