World Stamp Show 2016
On May 28, 2016, the doors opened on America’s 11th International Stamp Exhibition, World Stamp Show 2016. It marked the show’s return to New York after 60 years.
Postal History
Discovery of the Inverted Jenny
On May 14, 1918, stamp collector William Robey discovered the rare Inverted Jenny error sheet. One of the most famous US stamp errors, he found the only known sheet to reach public hands.
Start of Scenic American Landscapes Series
On May 12, 1999, the USPS introduced a new series of Airmail stamps – the Scenic American Landscapes. These were the final Airmail stamps. issued through 2012.
Distinguished Servicemen Series
On May 3, 2000, the USPS issued the first stamps in the Distinguished Servicemen Series. These stamps were intended as a tribute to all servicemen, not just the soldiers they pictured.
Kansas-Nebraska Stamps
On May 1, 1929, the Kansas-Nebraska stamps were officially placed on sale. The stamps were intended to put an end to post office robberies but were heavily criticized and short-lived.
Opening of FIPEX
The Fifth International Philatelic Exhibition (FIPEX) opened its doors to a record 60,000 visitors on April 28, 1956.
First Stamp Issued in Presidential Series
On April 25, 1938, the first stamp in the Presidential Series (also known as the Prexies) was issued featuring George Washington. The popular series pictured every deceased US president up to that time, marking the the first postal appearances for 12 US presidents.
Special Handling Stamps
On April 11, 1925, the US Post Office issued its first Special Handling stamp, #QE4. Special Handling stamps enabled fourth-class mail to be delivered at the speed of first-class mail, which was especially important since many parcels contained live animals such as young alligators or baby chicks!
Launch of the SS Adriatic
On April 7, 1856, the SS Adriatic was launched. It was the largest and fastest ocean liner in the world and considered a modern marvel at the time. It was also the first ship pictured on a US stamp.