Second class stamps royal mail

A blast from the past!

In the United Kingdom, Royal Mail used to have a system of stamp classes, with different classes of stamps having different values. The "Second Class" stamp was one of these classes.

Here's a brief history:

• In 1968, Royal Mail introduced a new system of stamp classes, with three main classes: First Class, Second Class, and Surface Mail.
• Second Class stamps were introduced to provide a cheaper alternative for sending letters that didn't require a guaranteed delivery time.
• Second Class stamps were valid for sending letters up to 100g in weight, and the delivery time was not guaranteed. The delivery time was typically 3-5 working days, but it could take longer.
• The value of Second Class stamps varied over the years, but they were generally cheaper than First Class stamps.
• In 2012, Royal Mail abolished the distinction between First Class and Second Class stamps, and introduced a single "1st Class" and "2nd Class" service. The 2nd Class service is now a standard service with a guaranteed delivery time of 3 working days.

Here are some examples of Second Class stamps from the past:

• In 1970, a Second Class stamp cost 4p.
• In 1980, a Second Class stamp cost 10p.
• In 1990, a Second Class stamp cost 15p.
• In 2000, a Second Class stamp cost 24p.
• In 2010, a Second Class stamp cost 28p.

Today, Royal Mail offers a single "2nd Class" service, which costs 67p for a standard letter weighing up to 100g.