Huge numbers of stamps with '1st' and '2nd' marked on them will become unusable at the start of next year under changes by the Royal Mail.
It has announced that, following a trial, it will be adding unique barcodes to all 'everyday' Definitive and Christmas stamps.
These are generally the stamps that are not marked with a monetary value.
The Royal Mail explained that each new barcoded stamp will have a "digital twin" and the two will be connected by the Royal Mail app.
A spokesperson for the Royal Mail said: "The unique barcodes will facilitate operational efficiencies, enable the introduction of added security features and pave the way for innovative services for our customers.
"Definitive stamps are the stamps that will be very familiar to most people. They feature the profile of HM The Queen.
"The barcodes match the stamp colour and sit alongside the main body of the stamp, separated by a simulated perforation line. The new barcode is an integral part of the stamp and must remain intact for the stamp to be valid."
However, the move puts an expiry date on the current style of stamps, which will be unusable after January 31, 2023.
The spokesperson added: "Customers are encouraged to use their non-barcoded stamps before this date. Alternatively, non-barcoded stamps can be exchanged for the new barcoded version through Royal Mail’s ‘Swap Out’ scheme.
"The ‘Swap Out’ scheme will open on March 31, 2022. Forms will be available via a variety of channels, including local Customer Service Points; the Royal Mail website and via our Customer Experience team.
"Customers will be able to use a Freepost address. Further details will be announced shortly."
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