July 1, 2013 Commemorates 50 Years Of Mr. Zip And Zip Codes

Don't forget that today is the "golden anniversary" of the ZIP Code, which started on July 1, 1963!



Here are some facts about it:

http://readingeagle.com/article.aspx?id=489825

I was hoping the USPS would have issued a stamp featuring Mr. ZIP for the event, but no such luck. In fact, seeing as how ZIP Codes are so important to us today, it seems to me it was a missed opportunity for the post office to let that milestone go by without even a pictorial cancel acknowledging the anniversary.

Listening to All Things Considered on my way home from work today, I caught an interview with the head curator of the National Postal Museum. Here's the transcript and a link to the audio: http://www.npr.org/templates/story/...Id=197713631

When I read this I laughed out loud. Anyone here have a favorite zip code?

I don't necessarily have a "favorite" ZIP Code, but does anyone remember these pieces that were sent to every ZIP Code address in the country to identify the correct ZIP Code of each residence back when the program was first initiated?



It was in due course supplemented by this period magazine ad, as a public service announcement:

Recently found this in an envelope with several stamps I purchased:

One of the online groups I swap with is called "Mr. Zip Approved" and I try to use a Zip single on each thing I mail. I sent out a letter yesterday and didn't even make the date connection. ;)