Unreachable iCloud email address

Hello

I created an Apple account probably some time around August 2001 (iTools era), which I have been using consistently ever since, and which was originally registered as "original_handle@mac.com". Throughout all the transitions to .Mac, Me, iCloud, etc, the primary username of this account has always been "original_handle@mac.com".

When I log into my Apple ID (appleid.apple.com), under Personal Information > Reachable At, I see:

• original_handle@mac.com
• new_handle@me.com
• new_handle@icloud.com

Please note that "original_handle@icloud.com" is not included in this list.

The Apple ID for this account is still "original_handle@mac.com", and that's the username I use to log into icloud.com or any Apple devices.

Everything about this account is working as expected, except I cannot receive email sent to "original_handle@mac.com". I do receive email sent to "new_handle@me.com" and "new_handle@icloud.com". I also receive emails sent to "original_handle@icloud.com" (even though it is not in the Reachable At list).

Emails sent to "original_handle@mac.com" bounce with the error: "Diagnostic-Code: smtp; 550 5.1.1 <original_handle@mac.com>: user does not exist"

I realize that "@mac.com" email addresses are more or less defunct, and no new addresses with that domain are issued, but based on reports I've found online I believe that existing addresses should still be active.

Given that this account has been in active use since it was created, and that "original_handle@mac.com" has been the username of the account that entire time, I'm trying to figure out why it wouldn't continue to be an active email address. I would also like to know if there's anything that could be done to get it working again as an email address that can receive email.

Thank you!