Counterfeit postage has become a real problem for mailers, especially when stamps are bought through unfamiliar online sellers at prices that seem too good to be true. Using a fake stamp can lead to returned mail, delivery delays, or a letter that never reaches its destination. This guide covers exactly what to check so you know your Forever Stamps are authentic before you use them.
Why Fake Forever Stamps Have Become More Common
Counterfeit stamps show up most often through certain sales channels rather than trusted retailers.
A few reasons this problem has grown:
- Some online marketplaces allow third party sellers with little oversight
- Prices far below normal retail cost are often a warning sign
- Counterfeit stamps can look convincing at a quick glance
- Buyers often do not check stamps closely until mail is returned or delayed
Knowing what to look for protects both your mail and your wallet.
Check the Print Quality Closely
Authentic stamps are produced with precise, consistent printing.
Look closely for these details:
- Sharp, clean lines around the flag design and lettering
- Consistent color saturation across the entire stamp
- No blurry edges or smudged ink
- Text that is crisp and easy to read, without pixelation
Fake stamps often show slightly duller colors or fuzzy printing when compared side by side with a stamp you already know is authentic.
Inspect the Perforations
The small cut edges around each stamp, known as perforations, are a strong indicator of authenticity.
Check the perforations for:
- Even spacing between each perforation cut
- Clean, consistent edges without ragged tearing
- Uniform size and shape across the entire coil
- Smooth separation between individual stamps
Uneven or rough perforations are a common sign of a poor quality reproduction.
Examine the Adhesive Backing
The backing of a stamp can reveal a lot about its authenticity.
Signs of an authentic adhesive backing include:
- A consistent texture across the entire back of the stamp
- Proper stickiness that holds firmly to an envelope
- No unusual smell or residue
- A backing pattern that matches other verified stamps from the same design
Backing that feels overly glossy, too thin, or inconsistent compared to known authentic stamps can indicate a problem.
Look for Security Features
Modern Forever Stamps often include subtle security details that are difficult to reproduce accurately.
These features can include:
- Microprinting that is only visible under close inspection or magnification
- Specific color patterns tied to a particular stamp design and year
- Consistent placement of design elements across every stamp in a coil
- UV reactive elements on certain stamp designs, visible under UV light
If a stamp is missing these details or they appear inconsistent, it is worth further investigation before use.
Buy Only From Trusted Sellers
The most reliable way to avoid counterfeit stamps is to control where you buy them in the first place.
Protect yourself by:
- Buying from established retailers with clear business information and contact details
- Avoiding sellers offering prices dramatically lower than standard retail cost
- Checking for return policies and clear shipping information before purchasing
- Reading seller reviews when buying through a marketplace platform
A trustworthy seller stands behind the stamps they sell and provides a way to resolve issues if something looks wrong.
What to Do If You Suspect Fake Stamps
If you already have stamps you are unsure about, there are a few steps you can take.
Consider these options:
- Compare the stamps closely against a set you know is authentic
- Avoid using suspicious stamps on time sensitive or important mail
- Contact the seller you purchased from for clarification or a refund
- Purchase a fresh supply from a trusted retailer to avoid mailing issues
Taking a few minutes to check your stamps can save you from delayed or lost mail later.
Buy Forever Stamps You Can Trust
Buying from a reliable source removes the guesswork entirely. Every coil should match consistent print quality, proper perforations, and correct adhesive backing every time.
You can view current in-stock Forever Stamp coils here.
FAQs
How can I tell if my Forever Stamps are fake?
Check the print quality, perforation edges, and adhesive backing closely. Blurry printing, uneven perforations, or an unusual backing texture are common warning signs.
Why do some online sellers offer stamps far below normal price?
Extremely low prices can sometimes indicate counterfeit stamps, since authentic postage is priced consistently across trusted retailers.
Will a fake stamp still get my mail delivered?
Not reliably. Mail with a counterfeit stamp can be delayed, returned, or flagged during processing, which risks important or time sensitive letters.
Do all Forever Stamps have security features?
Many modern designs include details like microprinting or UV reactive elements, though older designs may have fewer visible security features.
What should I do if I think I bought fake stamps?
Contact the seller for a refund or replacement, and avoid using the suspicious stamps until you can confirm their authenticity or replace them.