I am a UK citizen and I last entered the US in 1998 under the Visa Waiver Program.

I overstayed the maximum permitted time, leaving after approximately 21 months total stay. At no time was I contacted about my stay whilst there or upon leaving. 

I have heard that this incurs a ten year travel ban, but if so, this should have expired by now. Unfortunately I cannot find concrete information and the US embassy told me there was no expiry to a travel ban but did not give me specific information to my own situation.

How can I find out if I will be permitted to enter the country again as a tourist, whether under visa waiver, or applying for a visa, or not at all? Will there be fees involved? I don't want to end up being denied at the point of entry.

Sorry if I have missed any needed info to answer this question.