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Key Takeaways

• A special USPS “1776” pictorial postmark will commemorate America’s 250th anniversary.
• Bristol, Lancaster, Chester and Philadelphia are among 62 historic Post Office nationwide offering the postmark.
• Customers may request the postmark by mail beginning July 4; it will be available for 90 days at no charge.

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PENNSYLVANIA — The U.S. Postal Service is offering a special pictorial postmark at select Post Offices to commemorate the 250th anniversary America and USPS. The postmark represents the rich history of our nation and the Postal Service, which predates the Declaration of Independence, and its enduring commitment to connecting communities across the country.

There are 62 Post Office locations nationwide that have been in operation in 1776, including four locations in Pennsylvania. These Post Office locations are proud to offer this postmark to commemorate America’s 250th birthday and our service to several communities in the state, including:

The postmark features a graphic with text “1776” and will be available by mail beginning July 4. It will remain available for 90 days after July 4.

To request a postmark by mail, please follow these steps:

1. Prepare Your Mail: Address your chosen envelopes or postcards to yourself or the intended recipient.
2. Apply Postage: Affix the required stamps (meeting or exceeding current First-Class Mail rates).
3. Add Sturdiness: Insert a piece of cardstock or a stiffening card into the envelopes, and tuck in the flaps.
4. Mail It In: Place your prepared items inside a larger envelope and send them to:

FDOI – Declaration of Independence
USPS Stamp Fulfillment Services
8300 NE Underground Drive, Suite 300
Kansas City, MO 64144-9900

With 62 different Post Offices offering the postmark, customers need to indicate which of the 62 historic postmarks they want when submitting their request. There is no charge for the postmarks. For more details, see the June 11 edition of the Postal Bulletin.

The Postal Service was founded in 1775 by the Second Continental Congress with Benjamin Franklin as the first Postmaster General. The Postal Service has connected communities, supported commerce, and helped bind the nation together since before the founding of the United States itself. 

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