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Washington - An image of the Liberty Bell, an icon of American freedom and independence, will adorn the US postal service’s new forever stamp.

The design of the stamp was unveiled on Monday at the national postal forum, a gathering of companies in the mailing industry.

The forever stamp goes on sale April 12 at $41 (about R295). The rate for first-class postage rises to 41 cents on May 14.

The stamp, which will carry the word “forever” instead of a price, will remain valid for sending a letter, no matter how much postal rates go up in the future.

That will eliminate the annoyance of buying two-cent stamps to make up the new rate when prices rise, and people who want to hedge against inflation could lay in a supply of the stamps for long-term use.

Postmaster general John E Potter said: “Who said nothing lasts forever?”

He said the Liberty Bell was selected because it resonates as one of the most prominent and recognisable symbols associated with American independence.