On February 1, 1895, a new series of these stamps was introduced, retaining the central allegorical illustrations, reduced and surrounded by new designs by the Bureau of Engraving and Printing, by which they were engraved and printed.
The denominations of these stamps, from 1 to 10 cents, inclusive, are of the same design. The numerals in the upper corners are of equal size in the 1-, 2-, and 5-cent stamps, while those in the 10-cent stamp are condensed so as to fill the same space that is given to the others, besides being slightly different in style. Those in the 1- and 5-cent denominations are shaded dark on the lower half; those of the 2- and 10-cent stamps are white-faced. The statue of Freedom, by Crawford, is that which surmounts the Dome of the Capitol at Washington, and the same on the 1-, 2-, 5-, and 10-cent stamps. The same subject was used on the lower denominations of the old series, but the representation on the new stamps is full face.
The inscription “U.S. postage” at the top of the stamps is in white block letters upon an arched line, and the words “Newspapers” on the left and “Periodicals” on the right are in vertical lines. The denominations at the bottom are in white Roman letters, and there is foliate ornamentation in the lower corners.
The upper border line of the 25- and 50-cent stamps is broken by two indentations, separating that border into three equal parts, and the side inscriptions follow a curved line upon a scroll. The dimensions of the stamps below the $2 denomination are 27/32 by 1 and 3/8 inches. The remaining denominations from $2 to $100 are of the same size as the stamps of the retired series — that is to say, 15/16 by 1 and 3/8 inches. Other facts as to this series are shown in this table :
The use of newspaper and periodical stamps was discontinued on July 1, 1898. They no longer have any postage value, and those in the hands of postmasters at that time were ordered to be returned for credit.
For the benefit of collectors, 50,000 sets of these 1895 stamps were placed on sale at the first-class post offices at $5 a set, and at that rate, there were about $110,000 worth disposed of up to the date of their withdrawal, in January 1899.
Published by John Jr. Paperly
Source: Postage Stamps of the United States 1847-1959