USPS Introduces Nature of America Series
On April 6, 1999, the USPS issued the first stamp sheet in its 12-year Nature of America series. This popular series featured the first US self-adhesive sheets designed as one large scene.
This Day in History
Consular Service Fee Stamps
On April 5, 1906, Congress passed a law calling for the creation of Consular Service Fee stamps. The act also reorganized the consular service to dissuade dishonesty and help keep more accurate records.
American Revolution Sesquicentennial
On April 4, 1925, the US Post Office issued the first three stamps in a multi-year series honoring important events and people from the American Revolution. The stamps were issued for the sesquicentennial (150th) anniversary of the Revolution.
Treaty of Amity and Commerce with Sweden
On April 3, 1783, the US signed the Treaty of Amity and Commerce with Sweden, the first such treaty between the US and a country that wasn’t an ally in the Revolutionary War.
Birth of Hans Christian Andersen
Danish author Hans Christian Andersen was born on April 2, 1805, in Odense, Funen, Kingdom of Denmark-Norway. Best known as an author of Fairy Tales, his birthday is celebrated as International Children’s Book Day.
Boat Stamps Issued
On April 1, 1960, the US issued two boat stamps for use on motorboat applications. The stamps were part of an effort to promote boating safety in collaboration with the Coast Guard.
Postal Note Stamps
On March 31, 1951, Postal Note stamps were discontinued after just six years of use.
US Purchases Alaska
On March 30, 1867, US Secretary of State William Seward purchased Alaska from Russia in what many at the time called “Seward’s Folly.”
First Commemorative-Sized Definitive Booklet Stamp
On March 29, 1985, the USPS issued its first definitive booklet stamp in the larger commemorative size. It was created for use in vending machines and to test the popularity of the format.