No. Genuine, unused Global Forever stamps do not expire. A 2016, 2018 or other older U.S. Global Forever stamp still carries the current Global Forever postage value. At the rate effective July 12, 2026, that value is $1.75.
Old Global Forever Stamps at a Glance
| Do they expire? | No |
|---|---|
| Current value | $1.75 per Global Forever stamp |
| Primary use | Eligible 1-ounce First-Class Mail International letter or international postcard |
| Does the issue year matter? | No, if the stamp is genuine and unused |
Are 2016 and 2018 Global Forever Stamps Still Good?
Yes. The artwork and issue year identify the design, not an expiration date. Older Global Forever issues rise with the applicable Global Forever rate just as ordinary domestic Forever stamps rise with the ordinary one-ounce letter rate. Identify the round full-moon issue in the 2016 Global Forever stamp guide.
What One Global Forever Stamp Covers
One Global Forever stamp covers an eligible First-Class Mail International one-ounce machinable letter or international postcard to a country where the service is available. Destination, weight, dimensions, thickness, rigidity and mail class can change the required amount. A heavier or nonstandard piece may need additional postage.
Can an Old Global Forever Stamp Be Used Domestically?
Yes. It can be applied toward domestic postage at its current $1.75 postage value. On a standard one-ounce domestic letter, that would exceed the current ordinary Forever requirement, and excess postage is not normally refunded. Use an ordinary Forever stamp when it fits the mailpiece more closely.
When an Older Stamp Should Not Be Used
- It has already been canceled or used.
- It is counterfeit or altered.
- Damage prevents postal equipment or staff from validating it.
- The mailpiece needs more than the stamp’s current value.
How to Check Before Mailing
- Confirm the stamp is a U.S. Global Forever issue rather than an ordinary Forever or foreign “permanent” stamp.
- Make sure it is genuine, unused and securely affixed.
- Measure and weigh the finished mailpiece.
- Verify the destination and current rate with the USPS Postage Price Calculator.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Global Forever stamps have an expiration date?
No. Genuine unused U.S. Global Forever stamps retain the current category value.
Is a 2016 Global Forever stamp still valid?
Yes, if it is genuine and unused.
Is a 2018 Global Forever stamp still valid?
Yes, under the same genuine-and-unused conditions.
Can I combine Global Forever stamps with other postage?
Yes. Valid U.S. postage can be combined to meet a required total, although using whole Global stamps can overpay some mailpieces.
See Global Forever stamp products, learn how Forever stamps work for international mail, or review ordinary Forever stamp expiration rules.
Rates checked August 31, 2026. Recheck USPS for later price or service changes.