New York, NY, Sept. 11, 2001, postmark handstamp
This band dater has the months, dates, and years affixed to bands that can be rotated into position to mark the correct date. To use, the handstamp rims are positioned over the space that will receive an imprint. The handle is pressed down, and the marking stamp assembly lowers, flipping 180 degrees in the process. After making an imprint, the marking die and date wheels retract and assume their original position. When not in use, the marking die and selected month, date, and year type on the bands are pressed against an ink pad mounted in the recess under the handle. This type of handstamp is used for marking receipts such as insurance slips as well as on registered parcels and letters along seams. It is not ordinarily used for postmarking mail.
This hand stamp was collected from a postal window on the ground floor of the Church Street Station Post Office, New York City, across from the World Trade Center. The stamp was last used on September 11, 2001.
