1954-71 Special Delivery 4V

Complete 1954-71 Special Delivery Stamp Set

On October 1, 1885, the Special Delivery service made its debut, and the U.S.  Postal Department issued a 10¢ stamp to inaugurate its new service.  Used in addition to the regular postage required, this stamp paid for an extra service – the immediate delivery of a letter within one mile of any other Special Delivery post ...  more

Complete 1954-71 Special Delivery Stamp Set

On October 1, 1885, the Special Delivery service made its debut, and the U.S.  Postal Department issued a 10¢ stamp to inaugurate its new service.  Used in addition to the regular postage required, this stamp paid for an extra service – the immediate delivery of a letter within one mile of any other Special Delivery post office.

Originally, Special Delivery offices were located only in cities with populations that exceeded 4,000.  However, the venture was such a success, the service was extended to all areas in October 1886.  Because the first Special Delivery issue bore the inscription: “Secures immediate delivery at a Special Delivery office,” the stamp needed to be revised when this new act was put into effect.  On September 6, 1888, a revised stamp, bearing the inscription: “Secures immediate delivery at any post office,” was issued.

Two of the stamps in this set picture hands passing a letter and the other two picture arrows, representing the moving mail.