U.S. #5061

2016 5c Non-denominated, Non-profit

Nonprofit organizations reinvest extra revenue to further their missions, instead of distriuting profits to stakeholders. Their purposes are typically charitable, educational, or religious in nature. 

In the late 1700s, the arrival of the U.S. Post Office gave these organiza...  more

U.S. #5061

2016 5c Non-denominated, Non-profit

Nonprofit organizations reinvest extra revenue to further their missions, instead of distriuting profits to stakeholders. Their purposes are typically charitable, educational, or religious in nature. 

In the late 1700s, the arrival of the U.S. Post Office gave these organizations a powerful new way to promote their respective causes. But at that time, sending mail was costly. Some items, such as newspapers, could be sent at a reduced postage rate if they were considered socially important or educational. However, mail from nonprofits did not qualify for this benefit.

Then in 1855, nonprofits were allowed to use the less expensive second-class periodical stamp rate. By 1918, a specific "nonprofit" second-class rate had been established. And in 1952, an even cheaper third-class rate for bulk mailings was approved for use.

Not all nonprofits are authorized to use special second- and third-class rates, though. They must first meet specific criteria to be deemed eligible by the Postal Service. But once approved, the lower-cost rates help support America's nonprofit organizations and the many benevolent causes they pursue.

Value:  5c value

Issued: April 28, 2016

First Day City:  Dulles, VA

Type of Stamp:  Non-denominated, Non-profit

Printed by:  Ashton Potter

Method:  Pressure-sensitive Adhesive Coil of 10,000

Self-Adhesive

Quantity Printed:  2 billion

The letters "USA" in blue with a bright-red star are shown on a white background.  The stamp was designed by art director Antonio Alcala along with Leslie Badari.