WASHINGTON — As a convenience to customers needing additional postage, the U.S. Postal Service issued the new 1-cent definitive Apples stamps today. The stamps are available in coils of 3,000 and 10,000.

The stamp design features two apples on a branch surrounded by leaves. The original art for this stamp was illustrated using pen and ink and watercolor. Art director Derry Noyes of Washington, DC, designed this stamp with an existing illustration by John Burgoyne of West Barnstable, MA.

Also known as the Newtown pippin, the Albemarle pippin apple has deep historical roots. It first appeared in the late 17th century in an area of Queens, New York, formerly known as Newtown. The word “pippin” indicates that the trees originated from seedlings rather than from grafting — a technique common in the propagation of apple trees.

Savored for their crisp flesh and balanced flavor, these medium-sized, reddish-yellow and green apples soon gained popularity throughout colonial America. In 1755, Dr. Thomas Walker introduced them in Virginia when he returned home from the French and Indian War with a pile of cuttings. Grown on Walker’s plantation in Albemarle County, the celebrated New York apple received a new name and wider distribution.

Though harvesting of Albemarle pippins usually takes place in October, they are often considered a late-winter fruit. Unlike many other heirloom apple varieties, these durable apples maintain quality in storage, their initial tartness mellowing over time. By February, the apples still retain their characteristic flavor that makes them difficult to resist. The distinctive aroma and pleasant taste of the Albemarle pippin make it well suited for pie fillings, applesauce and especially cider.

Customers may purchase the Apple stamps at usps.com/stamps, at the Postal Store usps.com/shop, by calling 800-STAMP24 (800-782-6724) and at Post Office locations nationwide. A variety of stamps and collectibles also is available at ebay.com/stamps.

Ordering First-Day-of-Issue Postmark
Customers have 60 days to obtain first-day-of-issue postmarks by mail. They may purchase new stamps at local Post Office locations, at the Postal Store usps.com/shopor by calling
800-782-6724. They should affix the stamps to envelopes of their choice, address the envelopes to themselves or others and place them in envelopes addressed to:

Apples Stamp
Cancellation Services
8300 NE Underground Drive, Pillar 210
Kansas City, MO 64144-0001

After applying the first-day-of-issue postmark, the Postal Service will return the envelopes through the mail. There is no charge for postmarks up to a quantity of 50. For more than 50, customers are charged 5 cents each. All orders must be postmarked by Oct. 12, 2016.

Ordering First-Day Covers
The Postal Service also offers first-day covers for new stamps and stationery items postmarked with the official first-day-of-issue cancellation. Each item has an individual catalog number and is offered in the quarterly USA Philatelic catalog, online at usps.com/shop or by calling 800-782-6724. Customers may request a free catalog by calling 800-782-6724 or writing to:

U.S. Postal Service
Catalog Request
PO Box 219014
Kansas City, MO  64121-9014

Visit this link for information on upcoming stamp events.

The Postal Service receives no tax dollars for operating expenses and relies on the sale of postage, products and services to fund its operations.

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