The USPS Black Heritage series began in 1978 with Harriet Tubman and has continued as an annual series honoring the achievements of Black Americans. It is different from every U.S. stamp that includes an African American subject.

Where the series begins

Harriet Tubman was the first honoree in the Black Heritage series in 1978. That milestone is not the same as the first African American honored on any U.S. postage stamp: Booker T. Washington appeared on a 10-cent stamp in 1940.

How to identify a Black Heritage issue

Use the honoree’s name, issue year, denomination or Forever marking, and the official USPS subject list. Portrait subject alone is not enough because USPS has honored Black Americans in other series and commemorative programs.

Mailing and collecting

Unused Forever stamps from the series retain the value of the current one-ounce First-Class Mail letter rate, subject to the mailpiece’s weight, dimensions and other charges. Collector value is separate and depends on issue, condition, format and market evidence.

Related guides and products

Sources and verification

Checked September 4, 2026. Postal prices and availability can change.

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