What a Postcard Stamp Is Worth for Mailing and Collecting
Uncover the full significance of postcard stamps, encompassing their utility for sending mail and their potential as valued collectibles.
A postcard stamp serves as a practical and economical method for sending messages through the mail. It is specifically designed to cover the postage cost for standard postcards, offering a cost-effective alternative to mailing a letter. This specialized stamp allows individuals to share brief notes and greetings across distances.
Current Postage Value of a Postcard Stamp
As of July 13, 2025, the domestic postage value for a standard postcard stamp is 61 cents. This rate, set by the United States Postal Service (USPS), applies to postcards mailed within the U.S. The cost for a postcard stamp is typically less than that of a First-Class Mail letter stamp, which will be 78 cents from the same date. Periodically, the USPS adjusts its rates, reflecting changes in operational costs and the broader economic landscape.
How to Properly Use a Postcard Stamp
To ensure a postcard qualifies for the specific postcard rate, it must meet certain size and thickness requirements. A standard postcard must be rectangular, with minimum dimensions of 3.5 inches in height, 5 inches in length, and 0.007 inches in thickness. The maximum dimensions allowed are 4.25 inches in height, 6 inches in length, and 0.016 inches in thickness. If a mailpiece exceeds these specific measurements, it will be categorized as a letter, requiring higher letter-rate postage.
When preparing a postcard for mailing, the stamp should be placed in the upper right-hand corner of the address side. The recipient’s full address should be clearly written in the lower right section, while the sender’s return address is typically placed in the upper left corner.
Where to Purchase Postcard Stamps
Postcard stamps are widely available from various sources, making them convenient to acquire. The most direct option is to visit any USPS Post Office location, where stamps can be purchased over the counter. For online convenience, the official USPS website, USPS.com, offers a selection of postcard stamps that can be ordered and delivered directly.
Beyond postal facilities, many authorized retail partners also stock postcard stamps. These include large grocery store chains, pharmacies, and office supply stores, as well as major big-box retailers. In some areas, certain banks may even offer stamps for sale, either through tellers or at ATMs. Stamps are commonly sold in booklets, providing multiple stamps for ongoing use.
Collectible Value of Postcard Stamps
Beyond their utility for mailing, some postcard stamps possess significant value within the philatelic, or stamp collecting, community. This collectible value is distinct from the stamp’s face value for postage. Factors influencing a stamp’s collectible worth include its rarity, overall condition, age, and any unique historical significance it may hold.
Stamps in mint condition are more sought after by collectors. Older stamps, those produced in limited quantities, or stamps with notable printing errors can also command higher prices. Demand within the philatelic market for certain themes or historical periods further contributes to a stamp’s market value.