United States Meter Stamp, Type IA3 Ua1

United States · 1930 · Variable

A rectangular meter stamp indicium featuring 'U.S. POSTAGE' at the top and 'PAID' at the bottom, with a circular cancellation-like design containing vertical bars in the center.

Meter stamps revolutionized mail processing by allowing businesses to print postage directly onto envelopes, streamlining bulk mail and reducing the need for adhesive stamps. This particular type represents an early design used by Pitney Bowes machines in the United States.