#United States #USPS #Compass Rose #Global Forever #Peachtree Corners

U.S. Postal Service Launches 1794 Compass Rose Stamp

On January 24, 2025, the U.S. Postal Service made an exciting announcement at the Southeastern Stamp Expo held in Peachtree Corners, Georgia. The agency introduced the 1794 Compass Rose, a new Global Forever stamp that features a vibrant design inspired by a historical compass rose dating back to the 18th century. This release marks a significant moment for philatelists and those interested in international mail.

A Touch of History

The inspiration behind the stamp comes from the Maine Historical Society's collection. The compass rose was originally created by Lucia Wadsworth, a young 10-year-old girl who used colored pencils in her geography notebook to depict the directional points. This charming design vividly illustrates a 32-point compass rose, using bold colors of blue, red, yellow, and green that stand out against a beige background. Interestingly, Wadsworth is also acknowledged as the aunt of celebrated poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow.

Unique Features of the Stamp

The new Global Forever stamp comprises a pane of ten round stamps, arranged in two rows with five stamps each. The stamp features text stating 'Global' in red and 'USA Forever 2025' in green lettering, displayed around the edge. This appealing design not only caters to philatelic enthusiasts but also serves a practical purpose for anyone engaged in international correspondence.

Compass Roses and Their Significance

A compass rose is typically illustrated on a map, guiding users by indicating the cardinal points (north, south, east, west) and additional directions. Historically, these figures have been integral for navigation, especially in maritime contexts. The term compass rose is derived from the floral resemblance of its directional points, often likening them to the petals of a flower. The compass rose has evolved since its earliest use, demonstrating the progress in cartography and navigation.

Availability and Purchase

For those unable to attend the Southeastern Stamp Expo, the 1794 Compass Rose stamp will be available for purchase at the Peachtree Corners Post Office and various Post Office locations across the nation. Customers can also buy them through the online Postal Store. Attendees had the unique opportunity to acquire the stamps along with a commemorative postmark, which many collectors find invaluable.

The Importance of Global Forever Stamps

The introduction of the 1794 Compass Rose as a Global Forever stamp serves a crucial role in facilitating global mail services. This stamp enables users to send letters weighing up to one ounce anywhere First-Class Mail International service is offered, addressing the needs of frequent international correspondents. Moreover, the unique value of Global Forever stamps ensures they will always be equal to the current rate for a 1-ounce international shipment.

Conclusion

The impending release of the 1794 Compass Rose stamp signifies not only an artistic and historical tribute but also a commitment by the U.S. Postal Service to enhance global communication avenues. With its colorful design and meaningful origin, the stamp is sure to become a favorite among collectors and those who utilize international mail. For those interested in stamps and philatelic products, further details can be found at the Postal Store.

Incorporating the hashtag #1794CompassRoseStamp, USPS encourages sharing and celebrating the new release across social media platforms.

For more updates and insights on postal services, the USPS continually strives to modernize its operations while remaining committed to the communities they serve. As they embark on their 10-year transformation plan, it’s an exciting time for postal history enthusiasts and everyday users alike.