History of USPS Postage Rates (1847–2026)

The United States Postal Service has a rich history dating back to Benjamin Franklin. Postage rates have changed dramatically over nearly 180 years. This timeline highlights the most significant milestones.

19th Century: The First Stamps

• 1847 – First US postage stamps issued: 5¢ Benjamin Franklin and 10¢ George Washington.
• 1863 – Free city delivery begins; rate for letters under 1 oz set at 3¢ per ½ oz.
• 1883 – Rate reduced to 2¢ per ounce, spurring massive increase in mail volume.

20th Century: Standardization

• 1917 – War surcharge raises rate to 3¢.
• 1958 – Airmail becomes standard at 5¢ per ounce.
• 1963 – ZIP codes introduced; rate at 5¢.
• 1975 – 10¢ for first ounce.
• 1991 – 29¢.
• 1999 – 33¢.

21st Century: Forever Stamps & Modern Hikes

• 2002 – 37¢
• 2006 – 39¢
• 2007 – 41¢ (Forever Stamp launched)
• 2014 – 49¢
• 2018 – 50¢ (price cap removed, rates rise faster)
• 2024 – 73¢ (current rate as of 2026)

This history shows how Forever Stamps protect consumers from frequent rate adjustments. Today, the USPS handles over 120 billion mail pieces annually, and stamps remain a cultural icon.