Direct answer: An ordinary Forever stamp follows the current First-Class Mail one-ounce letter-rate value. A denominated stamp contributes only the cent or dollar amount printed on it. Older lettered nondenominated stamps use the USPS-assigned value for their issue and are not automatically Forever stamps.
Value Comparison
| Stamp | How to recognize it | Value rule |
|---|---|---|
| Ordinary Forever | FOREVER or official ordinary Forever issue identification | Current ordinary one-ounce letter-rate value |
| Fixed denomination | Printed value such as 10¢, 39¢ or $1 | Exactly the printed amount |
| Lettered A–H issue | Letter marking and issue-specific design | Official value assigned when issued |
| Other nondenominated category | POSTCARD, ADDITIONAL OUNCE, GLOBAL or another service marking | Current applicable labeled category |
Are 39-Cent Stamps Forever Stamps?
No, not merely because they were used for First-Class Mail. A stamp printed with 39¢ is fixed-value postage. It remains 39¢ of postage if otherwise valid.
Are A- or H-Marked Stamps Forever Stamps?
No. Lettered-rate issues predate or differ from the ordinary Forever mechanism. Identify the specific issue and use its USPS-assigned value.
Can Fixed-Value Stamps Still Be Used?
Yes, generally, when genuine, unused, intact and valid. Combine their printed values to meet the current required postage. The stamps do not increase in value when the Forever rate rises.
Common Calculation Mistake
Do not treat an old purchase price as a printed denomination. A Forever stamp once sold when the rate was 49 or 50 cents still follows the ordinary Forever value; a stamp with 49¢ or 50¢ printed on it contributes only that printed amount.
Sources checked August 25, 2026: USPS stamp types; USPS postage stamp denominations; USPS DMM 604.