ISSUE 187 - July 3, 2026 - Stamp News Online Magazine
The Best of Stamp News Publishing
Baker’s U.S. Classics: The Two Cents 1861-66 Issue
by Hugh J. & J. David Baker
(From STAMPS Magazine, February 20-May 1, 1965, with images added)
During March 1863 Congress approved a postal act abolishing carrier fees and establishing a prepaid rate of 2¢ for drop letters. This rate could be paid by two 1¢ stamps, but the large anticipated demand made the issuing of our first 2¢ postage stamp and 2¢ embossed government envelopes practical.
Phil Ward quoted in one of his columns a June 6, 1863 letter from . . .
Continue reading Baker's U.S. Classics: The Two Cents 1861-66 Issue [PDF Document]
