July 1, 1847: The First U.S. Postage Stamps

On July 1, 1847, the United States issued its first official postage stamps, marking a significant development in the nation’s postal system. These stamps featured portraits of Benjamin Franklin and George Washington, key figures in American history.

Background

Prior to 1847, postage rates in the United States were complex and based on the number of pages in a letter and the distance it was traveling. The introduction of uniform postage stamps aimed to simplify this process, inspired by the success of the British Penny Black issued in 1840.

The Stamps

The Five-Cent Stamp

• Design: Featured Benjamin Franklin, America’s first Postmaster General.
• Color: Brown.
• Significance: Franklin was chosen for his crucial role in establishing the American postal system.

The Ten-Cent Stamp

• Design: Depicted George Washington, the first President of the United States.
• Color: Black.
• Significance: Washington symbolized leadership and the founding principles of the nation.

Issuance

The stamps were first made available in Boston, New York, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C. They could be utilized to prepay postage, a practice that encouraged more efficient handling and standardization of mail services.

Impact

The introduction of these stamps allowed for a more standardized postal rate and improved accessibility to mail services for the general public. It was a step towards modernizing the postal operations in the U.S., setting a precedent for the development of a more organized and structured postal service across the country.

Legacy

These first stamps are now highly valued by philatelists and represent a milestone in the history of the U.S. Postal Service. They not only facilitated communication but also highlighted the importance of two foundational American figures, reinforcing national identity and democratic values through postal imagery.