A first-class stamp
In 1989, the cost of a first-class stamp with which to mail an envelope weighing up to an ounce increased from $0.22 to $0.25. Today’s rate is more than twice that — $0.55, having risen to that level from $0.50 in January.
Younger people may not remember or realize it, but before 2007, whenever there was an increase in the price of postage, most people had to invest in stamps worth one or a few cents, to add to the old stamps.
That changed in 2007, though, with the introduction of “Forever” stamps, which remain valid for mailing a one-ounce first-class envelope, no matter when you bought them or when you use them.
