Complete Set, 1883 American Bank Notes

Issued: October 1, 1883
Quantity issued: 4,490,699,200 (estimate)
Printed by: American Bank Note Company
Method: Flat plate...  more

Issued: October 1, 1883
Quantity issued: 4,490,699,200 (estimate)
Printed by: American Bank Note Company
Method: Flat plate
Watermark: None
Perforation: 12
Color: Red brown

 

In March 1883, Congress passed an act which lowered the First Class mail rate from 3¢ per half ounce to 2¢ per half ounce, thus creating the need for this stamp. The new lower rate dramatically increased the volume of mail.