USA Pitney Postal Machine Prototype Meter Stamp

United States · 1920 · 1 cent

A rectangular meter stamp impression featuring 'U.S. POSTAGE' at the top, 'PAID' prominently in the center, and '1 CENT' at the bottom. The design is simple and functional, characteristic of early mechanical franking.

This stamp represents an early prototype of the Pitney Postal Machine, marking a pivotal moment in the mechanization of mail franking in the United States. It is a precursor to the widespread adoption of postage meters, which transformed postal operations.