United States First General Issue Stamps (1847)

United States · 1847 · 5 cents, 10 cents

These are the first two general issue postage stamps of the United States, issued on July 1, 1847. The 5-cent stamp features a portrait of Benjamin Franklin, while the 10-cent stamp depicts George Washington.

These stamps marked the beginning of a standardized national postal system in the United States, replacing various local and provisional issues. Their introduction significantly streamlined mail delivery and payment across the country.