Born on May 6
The Penny Black, the First Postage Stamp
The little stamp that opened the post.
Next: May 6, 2027
Where it comes from
On 6 May 1840 the Penny Black, the world's first adhesive postage stamp, became valid for postage in Britain, and this Story marks the anniversary. It was the idea of Rowland Hill, who argued in 1837 that postage should be cheap, paid by the sender and charged by weight rather than distance.
How it's celebrated
There is no formal observance, but the Postal Museum in London tells the Penny Black's story all year, and stamp collectors everywhere know the date. It is a fine day to post a real letter or card, with a real stamp, to someone who would not expect one.
Did you know
Penny Blacks were printed in sheets of 240 and had to be cut apart by hand, because perforating machines had not yet been invented.
Read the full story of The Penny Black, the First Postage Stamp
Also on this day
- World Accordion Day · Squeeze out a tune today.
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Taurus · April 20 – May 20 · Earth sign
Steady and loyal, with a weakness for good food and comfortable things.