Before J.J. Abrams awakened the force, the Postal Service did.
USPS issued commemorative “Star Wars” stamps in 2007, about two years after George Lucas’s second film trilogy ended.
The 15 stamps are no longer available from USPS, but they’re part of the organization’s long tradition of celebrating cultural icons.
The stamps — which depict characters such as Darth Vader, Luke Skywalker and Han Solo — marked the first film’s 30th anniversary.
To promote the 41-cent stamps in 2007, the Postal Service placed R2-D2 mail collection boxes across the nation and invited customers to vote for their favorite “Star Wars” stamp image.
“Star Wars” is back in vogue as enthusiasts rush to buy toys and other items before the Dec. 18 release of Abrams’ new film, “The Force Awakens.”
The 2007 stamps are among the harder-to-find memorabilia, although some collectors might find them through independent dealers.