How Many Stamps in a Book of Stamps: Your Complete Guide

Stamp books usually hold 20 stamps. This post tells you about their costs, where to get them, and special types. You’ll also find ways to save money and learn about the history of these useful stamp sets.

The Standard Book of Stamps

Quantity of Stamps in a Typical Book

When you pick up a book of stamps, you’re usually getting 20 individual stamps. This quantity has become the standard for the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) and many other postal systems worldwide. It’s a convenient number that balances portability with having enough stamps for multiple mailings.

Types of Stamp Books Available

While 20 is the norm, you’ll find some variety in stamp book offerings:

1. First-Class Mail books: The most common type, featuring 20 stamps for standard letter postage.
2. Postcard stamp books: Often contain 20 stamps designed for postcard mailing.
3. Additional ounce stamp books: These help when sending heavier letters.
4. Forever Stamp books: Also typically come with 20 stamps that remain valid despite future price increases.

Pricing of Stamp Books

Current Cost of a Stamp Book

As of 2024, a book of 20 Forever Stamps costs $14.60. This price reflects the current rate of $0.73 per First-Class Mail stamp. Prices can change, so it’s wise to check the USPS website for the most up-to-date information.

Factors Affecting Stamp Book Prices

Several elements influence the cost of stamp books:

1. Postage rates: These typically increase annually due to inflation and operational costs.
2. Stamp type: Specialty or commemorative stamp books might cost more.
3. Quantity: Bulk purchases sometimes offer slight discounts.

Where to Buy Stamp Books

Post Office Options

Your local post office is the most reliable place to buy stamp books. They offer the widest selection and always have the latest issues. You can also purchase stamps on the USPS website, which is handy if you can’t make it to a physical location.

Alternative Purchase Locations

Stamp books are available at various convenient spots:

1. Grocery stores
2. Pharmacies
3. Banks
4. Gas stations
5. Walmart and Costco
6. Online retailers like Amazon

These options make it easy to grab a book of stamps while running errands.

Forever Stamps and Their Books

Benefits of Forever Stamps

Forever Stamps are a game-changer in the world of postage. They’re always valid for First-Class Mail, regardless of future price hikes. This feature makes them a smart buy, especially if you anticipate using stamps over an extended period.

Quantity in Forever Stamp Books

Like standard stamp books, Forever Stamp books typically contain 20 stamps. However, you might occasionally find books or panes with 18 or 16 stamps, particularly for special editions or commemorative series.

Specialty and Collectible Stamp Books

Unique Stamp Book Offerings

The USPS regularly releases special stamp books featuring themes like holidays, historical events, or pop culture icons. These can be fun additions to your mailing routine or great gifts for stamp enthusiasts.

Collectible Stamp Yearbooks

Each year, the USPS publishes a Collectible Stamp Yearbook. This hardbound book includes all the special stamp designs released that year, typically ranging from 70 to 80 unique stamps. It’s a treasure trove for collectors and a fascinating snapshot of the year’s notable themes and events.

Saving Money on Stamp Books

Bulk Purchasing Options

If you send a lot of mail, buying stamps in larger quantities can save you money in the long run. The USPS offers coils of 100 or even 1000 stamps, which can be more economical than individual books.

Online Discounts and Promotions

Keep an eye out for online deals:

1. USPS website: Occasionally offers discounts on certain stamp designs.
2. Stamps.com: Provides periodic promotions for new customers.
3. Amazon and eBay: Sometimes feature slightly discounted stamp books from authorized resellers.

Stamp Books for Different Mailing Needs

First-Class Mail Stamp Books

These are the workhorses of the stamp world. Each stamp in a First-Class book covers postage for a standard letter weighing up to one ounce. They’re perfect for everyday mailing needs like bills, letters, and greeting cards.

Postcard and Additional Ounce Stamp Books

For specific mailing requirements:

1. Postcard stamp books: Ideal for sending postcards at a lower rate than First-Class letters.
2. Additional ounce books: Help you add the right amount of postage for letters weighing more than one ounce.

The History of Stamp Books

Evolution of Stamp Book Formats

Stamp books have come a long way since their introduction:

1. Early 1900s: Books typically contained 12 or 24 stamps.
2. Mid-20th century: 20-stamp books became more common.
3. 2007: Introduction of Forever Stamps changed the game.

Notable Changes in Stamp Book Quantities

Over the years, the USPS has experimented with different book sizes:

1. 10-stamp books: Once popular for their compact size.
2. 18-stamp books: Introduced as an alternative to the standard 20.
3. 20-stamp books: Now the most common format.

These changes reflect shifts in consumer preferences and postal service efficiency.

Digital Alternatives to Traditional Stamp Books

Online Postage Options

In our digital age, physical stamps aren’t the only option:

1. Click-N-Ship: Print shipping labels directly from the USPS website.
2. Stamps.com: Offers online postage printing services.
3. Endicia: Another popular online postage solution.

These services let you print postage at home, saving trips to the post office.

Metered Mail for Businesses

For high-volume mailers, metered mail can be more cost-effective than stamp books:

1. Postage meters: Print exact postage amounts on envelopes or labels.
2. Cost savings: Often cheaper per piece than standard stamps.
3. Efficiency: Ideal for businesses sending large quantities of mail.

Tips for Managing Your Stamp Book Collection

Storing and Organizing Stamp Books

Keep your stamps in good condition with these tips:

1. Store in a cool, dry place to prevent sticking.
2. Use a small accordion file to organize different stamp types.
3. Label books with their purchase date to track price changes.

Tracking Stamp Usage and Replenishment

Stay on top of your stamp supply:

1. Keep a log of how many stamps you use monthly.
2. Set reminders to buy new books before you run out.
3. Consider subscribing to the USPS Stamp Subscription service for regular deliveries.

Frequently Asked Questions About Stamp Books

Can I use old stamps if postage rates have increased?

Yes, but you’ll need to add stamps to meet the current rate.

Do stamp books expire?

No, but non-Forever stamps may need additional postage if rates increase.

Can I buy a single stamp instead of a book?

Yes, at post offices and some retailers, though it’s less common.

Myths and Misconceptions Debunked

Myth: Stamp books are always cheaper than buying individual stamps.

Fact: While often true, some specialty books might cost more per stamp.

Myth: All stamp books contain the same number of stamps.

Fact: While 20 is standard, you can find books with 18, 16, or even 10 stamps.

Myth: You can’t use Forever Stamps for international mail.

Fact: You can, but you’ll need to add additional postage to meet international rates.

By now, you should have a comprehensive understanding of stamp books, from their contents to their costs and where to find them. Whether you’re an occasional mailer or a postal enthusiast, knowing the ins and outs of stamp books can help you manage your mailing needs efficiently and economically. Remember, while the standard book contains 20 stamps, options vary, so choose the book that best fits your postal requirements.