ART of Stamp Collecting

THE ART OF Stamp Collecting

1 The Art of Stamp Collecting

Stamp collecting can be a lifetime hobby. What kinds of stamps are there? It’s fun and educational for all ages and There are a number of different types of it’s easy to start your own collection stamps. Their purposes can be described without a big investment. Read on to find as commemorative, definitive, and spe- out how you can start or build your very cial; their formats can be in sheets, book- own collection. lets, or coils. Stamps may be conventional The study of stamps and postal materials adhesive (“lick-and-stick”) or self-adhe- is called philately and collectors are some- sive (“no-lick, peel-and-stick”). times called philatelists. Definitive stamps (also called “regular issues”) are the most common type of How do I start collecting stamps? postage. Generally less than an inch square, they are printed in large quanti- It’s easy. You can start by simply saving ties, and often more than once. Their stamps from letters, packages, and post- denominations can range from 1¢ to $14. cards. Ask your friends and family to Definitives are usually available for sever- save stamps from their mail. al years, since they’re printed in large Neighborhood businesses that get a lot of quantities for specific postal rates. mail—banks, stores, travel agencies— might save their envelopes for you too. Commemorative stamps, larger and more colorful than definitives, are printed in Or you can start your own collection by smaller quantities and typically only choosing one or two of your favorite sub- once. They honor people, events, or subjects. Many beginning collectors choose a jects of importance to American life and subject like art, history, sports, trans- culture. They remain on sale for a limited portation, science or animals as the period of time, generally about a year; theme of their collection. This is called many post offices carry them for only a topical collecting. See the stamps pictured few months. The U.S. Postal Service’s on this page as examples of the many Philatelic Fulfillment Center also offers topics you can collect. commemorative stamps by mail order for about one year after they are issued. Will it cost me a lot to start Special stamps supplement each year’s a collection? regular stamp issues. They include No! Start with used stamps and you can Holiday Celebrations, Christmas, Love, have a great time on a limited budget international rate, Priority Mail, and with just a few inexpensive accessories Express Mail. They also are usually on such as an album and stamp hinges. sale for only a limited time.

Booklet

2 5. Place the stamp between two paper towels and put a heavy object, such as a book, on top. This will keep the stamp from curling as it dries. Leave overnight. 6. If the stamp is a newer one with “invisible” gum, dry it face down Commemorative Definitive with nothing touching the back and flatten it later if necessary. Otherwise, it may stick to the paper towel when drying.

Coil Special

Booklet stamps are designed to be folded How should into a convenient unit. They come in I organize small folders that contain panes of 3 to my stamps? 20 stamps each. Gummed booklet stamps However you have at least one straight edge. want to of course— Coil stamps are issued in rolls. Each coil it’s your collection. has two straight edges and two edges But be sure to protect with either slit-like cuts or holes called them so they don’t get perforations. damaged or lost. You can attach your stamps to loose-leaf paper and put them How do I remove stamps in a three-ring binder. Or, the best way is from an envelope? to store them in a stamp album which you can buy in stores. If you wish you can save whole envelopes with stamps on them and store them any- How do I put a stamp in the album? where—from shoe boxes to special albums. But if you want to remove It’s best to use a stamp hinge—a small stamps from envelopes it pays to be very strip of thin plastic with gum on one side. careful. Soaking is the best way to Unlike tape or glue, hinges allow you to remove stamps from envelopes. peel the stamp off the page without dam- aging it. Hinges come either folded or Here’s how: unfolded. 1. Tear or cut off the envelope around the stamp, leaving a small margin. 2. With the stamp facing down, place into a pan of warm, not hot, water. After a few minutes (self-adhesive gum may take longer), the stamp should sink to the bottom. 3. Wait a few more minutes for any remaining gum to dislodge from the stamp. 4. Lift the stamp out preferably using stamp tongs (a metal tool, like tweezers.) It is best to handle stamps with tongs because the oil from your skin can damage stamps.

3 Here’s how to use a folded hinge: How should I judge the condition of a stamp? 1. Moisten the short end of the hinge lightly. Press it to the back of the stamp, Stamp dealers put stamps into categories placing the fold about 1/8” from the top according to their condition. A stamp in of the stamp. (unused) mint condition is the same as when purchased from the Post Office. A 2. Place the stamp in the album and press used stamp is one that has been canceled. down to secure it. To evaluate the condition of a stamp, 3. Using your tongs, gently lift the cor- first look at the front of it. Are the colors ners of the stamp to make sure it’s not bright or faded? Is the stamp clean, dirty, stuck to the page. or stained? Is it torn or Instead of a stamp hinge, you can insert creased? Torn the entire stamp into a stamp mount— stamps are not a small, clear plastic sleeve. Mounts considered are more expensive than hinges, but “collectible,” they protect stamps from air, dirt and but they moisture. can be used as space Is there anything else I need? fillers until you get better Collectors use a variety of other materials ones. Is the stamp and accessories. Transparent glassine design centered on envelopes protect stamps from grease the paper, crooked or and air. A stamp catalog is a reference off to one side? Centering can book with illustrations and range from “superb” (perfectly stamp values, such as The centered on the stamp) to Postal Service Guide to “good” (the design on at U.S. Stamps. A magnifying least one side is marred glass is useful when somewhat by the perfs). examining stamps; tongs Anything less would are used to pick up and be graded “fair” or move stamps. A perforation “poor” and, like torn gauge measures perforations copies, should be saved only as space along the edges of stamps. fillers. Centering varies widely on older Watermark fluid will enhance stamps. An examination of the back of a watermark, a design or pattern the stamp will reveal whether it has been that is pressed into some stamp paper carelessly treated and thus is less valuable. during manufacturing. Are all of the perforations intact? Has the stamp been canceled? A stamp with a How can I tell what a stamp is worth? light cancellation is in better condition When figuring the value of a stamp, ask than one with heavy marks across it. yourself two questions: “How rare is it?” See examples of these categories pictured and “What condition is it in?” Stamp on the next page. catalog prices will give you an idea of how rare the stamp is. However, the stamp may sell at more or less than the catalog price, depending on its condition. Stamp dealers categorize stamps according to their condition. Always try to find stamps in the best possible condition. Hinge marks on mint stamps can reduce value, which is why stamp mounts are recommended for mint stamps.

4 Good Light Cancel–Very Fine Medium Cancel–Fine Heavy Cancel

Superb Very Fine Fine

Where else can I find stamps? Other philatelic collectibles include: Check the classified ads in philatelic Plate numbers (including plate blocks) newspapers and magazines at your local appear on or adjacent to stamps. Found library. There is a listing of philatelic most often on sheet stamps, plate blocks resources on page 19 of this publication are the stamps—usually a group of 4— where you increase your knowledge of that have the printing plate numbers in collecting stamps. You can also the adjoining selvage, or margin. check the listing of philatelic Booklet panes are panes of stamps publishers in The Postal affixed in, or as part of, a thin folder to Service Guide to U.S. form a booklet. With self-adhesive Stamps. These publishers will stamps, a newer convertible booklet for- send you one free copy of their mat has been created so that the stamps, publication then you can decide if you’d liner and booklet are all on one unit. like to subscribe. There are also a num- Collectors of booklet panes usually save ber of stamp-related sites on the internet. the entire pane or booklet. What other stamp materials Marginal blocks (including copyright can I collect? blocks) feature marginal inscriptions other than plate numbers. The most Postal stationery products are popular common is the copyright block, which among philatelists. These have the stamp features the copyright symbol ©, copy- designs printed or embossed (printed right date, and U.S. Postal Service. with a raised design) directly on them. All U.S. stamp designs since 1978 Stamped Envelopes were first issued in are copyrighted. 1853. More than 600 million of them are now printed each year. Stamped Cards (or postal cards) were first issued in 1873. The first multicol- ored commemorative postal cards came out in 1956. Several different stamped cards are issued every year. Aerogrammes (air letters) are designed to be letters and envelopes all in one. They are specially stamped, marked for folding and already gummed.

5 First Day Covers (FDCs) are envelopes bearing new stamps postmarked on the first day of sale. For each new issuance, the U.S. Postal Service generally selects one location, usually related to the stamp subject, as the place for the first day dedi- cation ceremony and the first day postmark.

Are there any stamp groups I can join? First Day of Issue Ceremony Programs are given to those who attend first day Yes! Stamp clubs are a great source for ceremonies. They contain a list of partici- new stamps and stamp collecting advice. pants, information on the stamp subject, Ask your local postmaster or librarian and the actual stamp attached and post- about stamp clubs in your area and con- marked in a handsomely designed folder. tact information including Internet sites.

How do I collect First Day Covers? The fastest way to get a First Day Cover is to buy the stamp yourself (it will usually go on sale the day after the first day of issue), attach it to your own envelope (or cover),

and send it to the first day post office for 4. Put your first day envelope(s) inside cancellation. You can submit up to 50 another, larger envelope and mail it to envelopes, up to 30 days after the stamp’s “Customer-Affixed Envelopes” in care of issue date. the postmaster of the first day city. Your envelopes will be canceled and returned. Here’s how: Or, you can purchase a plain envelope 1. Write your address in the lower right- with the stamp(s) already affixed and can- hand corner of each first day envelope, at celed. These are now sold directly by mail least 5/8” from the bottom. Leave plenty order through the U.S. Postal Service. of room for the stamp(s) and cancellation. Use a peel-off label if you prefer. Digital Color Postmark First Day 2. Insert a piece of cardboard (about as Covers thick as a postcard) into each envelope. Since 2005, some cancellations are now You can tuck the flap in or seal the being created as beautiful miniature envelope. works of art specifically designed for 3. Affix your stamp(s) to your first day each stamp. These collectibles can be pur- envelope(s). chased as sets for each year. Products can be ordered by calling 1 800 STAMP-24 or online at www.usps.com.

6 AMERICAN ★ COMMEMORATIVE ★ COLLECTIBLES Here are additional philatelic products to add to your collection

Standing Order Program Mix and match Stamps, First Day Covers, Stationery, Uncut Press Sheets tailored to your own specific taste in quantities that you choose.

American Commemorative Collection Collect and learn about people, anniversaries, places and events with detailed stories and the stamps are mounted in a protective stamp mount.

American Commemorative Panels Obtain photo or steel engravings, mint condition stamps in acetate mounts and subject related text presented on a beauti- fully designed page.

American Commemorative Cancellations Get official first day of issue cancellations and stamp(s) affixed to sheets featuring technical and historical information about the stamps.

Digital Color Postmark Program Now you can have First Day Covers cancelled with wonderfully colorful Digital Color Postmarks customized to match the stamps that are issued.

For information on more philatelic products call 1 800 STAMP-24

7 Oklahoma Statehood January 11, 2007 With Love Oklahoma City, OK and Kisses Black Heritage: January 13, 2007 Ella Fitzgerald Hershey. PA January 10, 2007 New York, NY

Literary Arts: Henry Wadsworth Longfellow March 15, 2007 New York, NY

International Polar Year Souvenir Sheet February 21, 2007 Fairbanks, AK

Forever Stamp™ American Flag Florida Panther April 12, 2007 April 12, 2007 May 12, 2007 Philadelphia, PA Washington, DC Washington, DC

Ella Fitzgerald® licensed by CMG Worldwide, Indianapolis, IN.

HERSHEY’S, KISSES, the plume and the product configuration are registered trademarks used with permission from The Hershey Company.

8 The Settlement of Jamestown May 11, 2007 Jamestown,VA

Pineapple Stamped Card Horses Stamped Envelope May 12, 2007 May 12, 2007 Washington, DC Washington, DC

VISIT US ONLINE AT THE POSTAL STORE

AT WWW.USPS.COM OR CALL 1 800 STAMP-24

Bighorn Sheep Hagåtña Bay, Guam Okefenokee Swamp, May 14, 2007 June 1, 2007 Georgia/Florida Washington, DC Barrigada, GU June 1, 2007 McLean, VA

10 Distinguished Distinguished Americans: Americans: Air Force One Margaret Chase Harriet Beecher Priority Mail® Smith Stowe June 13, 2007 June 13, 2007 June 13, 2007 Washington, DC Washington, DC Washington, DC

Marine One Hearts Express Mail® June 27, 2007 June 13, 2007 Washington, DC Washington, DC

Pacific Lighthouses June 21, 2007 Westport, WA

Pollination June 29, 2007 Washington, DC

11 Name(s) of character(s) and the distinctive likeness(es) thereof are Trademarks of Trademarks are Name(s) of character(s) and the distinctive likeness(es) thereof used with permission. ©2006 Marvel Characters, Marvel Characters, Inc. and are trademark. is a co-owned registered Inc. All Rights Reserved. Super Heroes Marvel Super Heroes July 26, 2007 San Diego, CA

Beautiful Blooms August 10, 2007 Portland, OR American Treasures: Louis Comfort Tiffany August 9, 2007 Portland, OR

Celebrate! Legends of Hollywood: August 17, 2007 James Stewart Stamford, CT August 17, 2007 Los Angeles, CA

12 Vintage Mahogany Speedboats August 4, 2007 Clayton, NY

Gerald Ford August 21, 2007 Rancho Mirage, CA and Grand Rapids, MI Disney Materials ©Disney. The Art of Disney: Magic August 16, 2007 Orlando , FL

13 Nature of America: Alpine Tundra August 28, 2007 Estes Park, CO

Mendez v. Westminster Jury Duty School District September 12, 2007 September 14, 2007 New York, NY Santa Ana, CA

Polar Lights October 1, 2007 Washington, DC

Christmas: Bernardino Luini Madonna of the Carnation October 25, 2007 New York, NY Holiday Knits October 25, 2007 New York, NY

14 Glossary of Stamp Collecting Words and Phrases

Accessories Cinderella Denomination The tools used by stamp Any stamp-like label with- The postage value appear- collectors, such as tongs, out an official postal ing on a stamp. hinges, etc. value. Die Cut Aerogrammes Classic Scoring of self-adhesive Air letters designed to be An early stamp issue. stamps that allows a letters and envelopes all in Coils stamp to be separated one. They are specially- Stamps issued in rolls from the liner. stamped and ready for (one stamp wide) for use Directory Markings folding. in dispensers or vending Postal markings that Aerophilately machines. indicate a failed delivery Stamp collecting that Coil Stamps attempt, stating reasons focuses on airmail stamps Stamps that are produced such as “No Such or postage. in a long vertical or hori- Number” or “Address Album zontal strip. Unknown.” A book designed to hold Commemoratives Double Transfer stamps and covers. Stamps that honor The condition on a print- Approvals anniversaries, important ing plate that shows evi- Stamps sent by a dealer to people, special events, dence of a duplication of a collector for examina- or aspects of national all or part of the design. tion. Approvals must culture. Duplicates either be bought or Compound Perforations Extra copies of stamps returned to the dealer Different gauge perfora- that can be sold or traded. within a specified time. tions on different sides Duplicates should be Block (normally adjacent) of a examined carefully for A group of unseparated single stamp. color and perforation variations. stamps, at least two Condition stamps high and two Condition is the most Entire stamps wide. important characteristic An intact piece of postal Booklet Pane in determining the value stationery, in contrast to A small sheet of stamps of a stamp. It refers to the a cut-out of the printed specially cut to be sold state of a stamp regarding design. in booklets. such details as centering, Error Bourse color and gum. A stamp with something A marketplace, such as a Cover incorrect in its design or stamp exhibition, where An envelope that has been manufacture. stamps are bought, sold, sent through the mail. Face Value or exchanged. Cracked Plate The monetary value, or Cachet (ka-shay´) A term used to describe denomination, of a stamp. A stamp related design stamps which show Fake on an envelope. evidence that the plate A genuine stamp that has Cancellation from which they were been altered in some way A mark placed on a stamp printed was cracked. to make it more attractive by a postal authority to Definitives to collectors. It may be show that the stamp has Regular issues of postage repaired, reperfed, or been used. stamps, usually sold over regummed to resemble a more valuable variety. Centering long periods of time. They The position of the design tend to be fairly small and First Day Cover (FDC) on a postage stamp. On printed in large quantities An envelope or card bear- perfectly centered stamps often more than once. ing a stamp cancelled to the design is exactly in the show its issuance date and middle. place.

15 First Day Ceremony Hologram Pictorials Program An image that appears to Stamps with a picture of A program given to those be three-dimensional some sort, other than who attend first day of when viewed from an portraits or static designs issue stamp ceremonies. It angle. Holograms have such as coats of arms. contains the actual stamp appeared on some modern Perforations affixed and postmarked, stamps and stationery. Lines of small holes or a list of participants and Imperforate cuts between stamps that information on the stamp Indicates stamps without make them easy to sepa- subject. perforations. rate. Foreign Entry Laid Paper Perforation Gauge When original transfers When held to the light, A tool used to measure are erased incompletely the paper shows alternate perforations along the from a plate, they can light and dark crossed edges of stamps or the appear with new transfers lines. distance between peaks of a different design or ridges. which are subsequently Line Pairs (LP) entered on the plate. Most coil stamp rolls Philately prior to 1981 feature a The collection and study Franks line of ink (known as a of postage stamps and Written, hand-stamped, “joint line”) printed other postal materials. or imprinted markings on between two stamps at the face of a cover indicat- Plate Block (PB) various intervals, caused (or Plate Number Block) ing that it is carried free by the joining of two or of postage. Franking is A block of stamps with more curved plates around the margin attached that usually limited to official the printing cylinder. government correspon- bears the plate number dence. Liner used in printing that sheet. The backing paper for Plate Number Coils Freak self-adhesive stamps. An abnormal variety of a (PNC) stamp occurring because Loupe For most coil stamp rolls of paper fold, over-inking, A magnifying glass used beginning with #1891, perforation shift, etc., as to examine details of a small plate number opposed to a continually stamps more closely. appears at varying inter- appearing variety or an On Paper vals in the roll in the error. Stamps “on paper” are design of the stamp. Grill those that still have por- Postal Stationery A pattern of small, square tions of the original enve- Envelopes, aerogrammes, pyramids in parallel rows lope or wrapper attached. stamped postal cards, and impressed or embossed on Overprint letter sheets with printed the stamp to break paper Additional printing on a or embossed stamp fibers, allowing cancella- stamp that was not part designs. tion ink to soak in and of the original design. Postal Cards preventing washing and Packet See “stamped postal reuse. A presorted group of dif- cards.” Gum ferent stamps, a common Postcards The coating of glue on the and economical way to Commercially-produced back of a stamp. begin a stamp collection. mailable cards without Hinges Pane imprinted postage. Small strips of gummed A full “sheet” of stamps Postmark material used by some as sold by a Post Office. A mark put on envelopes collectors to affix stamps Par Avion or other mailing pieces to album pages. French for mail trans- showing the date and ported “by air.” location of mailing.

16 Precancels Self-Adhesive Stamp Stamped Postal Card Stamps cancelled by a A stamp with pressure The current term for a proper authority prior to sensitive adhesive. mailable card with their use on mail. Selvage postage imprinted on it. Presort Stamp The paper around panes Stamped Envelope A discounted stamp used of stamps, sometimes A mailable envelope with by business mailers who called the margin. postage embossed or presort their mail. Semipostal Stamp imprinted on it. Prestige Booklet A First-Class Mail stamp Star Route A booklet commemorat- priced to include an addi- A mail route serviced by ing a special topic and tional charge earmarked an outside contractor containing stamps, narra- for a specific purpose, e.g., rather than a postal tive, and images. breast cancer research. employee. Reissue Series Strip An official reprinting of a A number of individual Three or more unseparated stamp that was no longer stamps or sets of stamps stamps in a row. being printed. having a common purpose Surcharge Reprint or theme, issued over an An overprint that changes A stamp printed from the extended period of time the denomination of a original plate after the (generally a year or more), stamp. including all variations of issue is no longer valid for Sweatbox postage. Official reprints design and/or denomination. A closed box with a grill are sometimes made for over which stuck-together Set presentation purposes, unused stamps are placed. official collections, etc., A group of stamps with a A wet, sponge-like material and are often distin- common design or theme under the grill creates guished in some way from issued at one time for a humidity so the stamps the “real” ones. common purpose or over can be separated without Revenue Stamps a limited period of time removing the gum. (generally less than a year). Stamps issued as proof of Tagging Souvenir Sheet payment of certain taxes The marking of stamps but not valid for postage. A small sheet of stamps with a phosphor or simi- Rouletting with a commemorative lar coating (which may be The piercing of the paper inscription. in lines, bars, letters, over- between stamps to facili- Special Issues all design area or entire tate their separation, often Stamps with a commemo- stamp surface), done by giving the appearance of a rative appearance that many countries for use series of dashes. supplement definitives and with automatic mail-han- Scrambled Indicia® meet specific needs. These dling equipment. When a A patented process that include Christmas, Love, stamp is issued both with conceals encoded text or Holiday Celebrations, and without this marking, graphics within the visible airmail, Express Mail, and catalogs will often note design. These hidden Priority Mail stamps. varieties as “tagged” or images can only be viewed Speculative “untagged.” through a special lens, the A stamp or issue released Tied On Stamp Decoder™, avail- primarily for sale to col- Describes a stamp whose able from the U.S. Postal lectors, rather than to postmark touches the Service. meet any legitimate postal envelope. Se-tenant need. Tongs An attached pair, strip Stamp Decoder™ A tweezer-like tool with or block of stamps that A device with a special rounded or flattened tips differ in design, value or lens that reveals hidden used to handle stamps. surcharge. images on stamps. It is available from the U.S. Postal Service.

17 Topicals U.S. Postal Service Listing of Stamp Series A group of stamps with Add more fun to your hobby by collecting stamps that the same theme—space belong to one of these many exciting stamp series. travel, for example. You can find a complete listing of each series in “The Unhinged Postal Service Guide to U.S. Stamps.” A stamp without hinge marks. First Pictorial American Design Unused Columbia Exposition American Treasures The condition of a stamp that has no cancellation America American Sports Personalities or other sign of use. American Revolution Sesquicentennial Distinguished Americans Used The condition of a stamp National Parks Celebrate The Century® that has been canceled. Army Navy World War II Variety Territorial Ratification of the A stamp that varies in Presidential Constitution some way from its stan- Famous Americans Pioneers of Aviation dard or original form. Garden Flowers Varieties can include miss- Win the War ing colors or perforations, Overrun Countries Looney Tunes constant plate flaws, National Capital American Scenes changes in ink or paper, Sesquicentennial American Transportation differences in printing Liberty Classic Collections method or in format. Wildlife Conservation America/PUAS Watermark A design sometimes Champion of Liberty Artists pressed into stamp paper American Credo Scenic American during its manufacture. Civil War Centennial Landscapes Water-Activated Gum Prominent Americans Scenic America Stamped Cards Water-soluble adhesives American Folklore such as sugar-based Historic Preservation Space starches on the back of Stamped Cards an unused stamp. American Bicentennial Legends of American National Parks Centennial Music Black Heritage Classical Composers & Conductors American Arts Folk Musicians Rural America Hollywood Composers Americana Broadway Songwriters American Folk Art Art of Disney Performing Arts Official Mail Literary Arts Official Envelopes Architecture Official Mail Postal Cards Lighthouses Statehood Love Olympic Games Love Stamped Envelopes Holiday Celebrations: Nature of America Christmas Legends of Hollywood Holiday Lunar New Year Holiday Celebrations Transportation Weddings Great Americans American Culture

18 Organizations, Publications and Resources

Please enclose a stamped, more. Sponsors national (f) 212-928-1477 self-addressed envelope stamp exhibitions annually [email protected] when writing to these in partnership with the www.esperstamps.org organizations. ASDA and USPS. Mailer’s Postmark American Air Mail Society American Society for Permit Club Rudy Roy Philatelic Pages and Charles F. Myers PO Box 5367 Panels Central Office Virginia Beach, VA Gerald Blankenship PO Box 3 23471-0367 PO Box 475 Portland, TN 37148-0003 (p) 757/499-5234 Crosby, TX 77532-0475 (p) 615/325-9478 [email protected] (p) 281/324-2709 [email protected] www.americanairmailsocie [email protected] www.mppclub.org ty.org www.asppp.org Publishes bimonthly Specializes in all phases of The only society with a newsletter, Permit Patter, aerophilately. focus on commemorative which covers all aspects of cancellations (formerly mailer’s postmark permits. American First Day souvenir pages) and com- Cover Society memorative panels. Plate Number Coil PO Box 16277 Collectors Club Tucson, AZ 85732-6277 American Stamp Ronald E. Maifeld (p) 520/321-0880 Dealers Association President [email protected] Jim Roselle PO Box 54622 www.afdcs.org 3 School St., Suite 205 Cincinnati, OH 45254-0622 Contact Doug Kelsey, Glen Cove, NY 11542-2548 [email protected] Executive Director (p) 516/759-7000 www.pnc3.org A full-service, not-for- (f) 516/759-7014 The Plate Number Coil profit, society devoted [email protected] Collectors Club (PNC3) is exclusively to First Day www.asdaonline.com an organization that stud- Covers and First Day Association of dealers ies the plate numbers and Cover collecting. engaged in every facet of plate varieties of United philately, with 6 regional States coil stamps issued 3 American Ceremony chapters nationwide.Will since 1981. The PNC Program Society send you a complete listing publishes a monthly John E. Peterson of dealers in your area or newsletter, Coil Line. ACPS Secretary/Treasurer collecting specialty. 6987 Coleshill Drive Postal History Society San Diego, CA 92119- American Topical Kalman V. Illyefalvi 1953 Association 869 Bridgewater Drive [email protected] Ray Cartier New Oxford, PA 17350- www.webacps.org Executive Director 8206 The American Ceremony PO Box 57 (p) 717/624-5941 Program Society is a place Arlington, TX 76004-0057 [email protected] to learn about First Day (p) 817/274-1181 Devoted to the study of and Supplemental stamp (f) 817/274-1184 various aspects of the Ceremonies and Ceremony [email protected] development of the mails Programs. www.americantopicalassn. and local, national and org international postal sys- American Philatelic A service organization tems; UPU treaties; and Society concentrating on the spe- means of transporting mail. Peter Mastrangelo cialty of topical stamp col- Department PG lecting. Offers handbooks The Souvenir Card 100 Match Factory Place and checklists on specific Collectors Society, Inc. Bellefonte, PA 16823-1367 topics and services. Dana M. Marr (p) 814/933-3803 PO Box 4155 (f) 814/933-6128 Ebony Society of Tulsa, OK 74159-0155 [email protected] Philatelic Events and (p) 918/664-6724 www.stamps.org Reflections [email protected] America's national stamp Manuel Gilyard, President Provides member auctions, society. Membership bene- PO Box 1757 a quarterly journal and fits include various Lincolnton Station access to limited-edition publications, services, and New York, NY 10037-1757 souvenir cards. (p) 212-928-5165

19 Spring-Ford Philatelic U.S. Postal Service A nonprofit organization Society Stamp Services known for its expertiza- First United Church of 1735 N. Lynn St, 5th tion service. Their broad Christ Floor, Room 5018 resources, provide collec- 145 Chestnut St. Arlington, VA 22209-6432 tors with comprehensive Spring City, PA 19475-1804 consumer protection. Book (p) 610/970-5408 U.S. Stamp Society series include expertizing [email protected] Executive Secretary case histories in Opinions, PO Box 6634 Foundation seminar sub- Meeting the last Thursday Katy, TX 77491-6634 of the month at 7:00 p.m. jects in “textbooks” and www.usstamps.org specialized U.S. subjects in United Postal An association of collec- monographs. Stationery Society tors to promote the study UPSS Central Office of all postage and revenue Professional Stamp Bob Wilderman stamps and stamped paper Experts Manager of the United States and PO Box 6170 PO Box 3982 U.S.-administered areas Newport Beach, CA Chester, VA 23831-8473 produced by the Bureau of 92658-6170 [email protected] Engraving and Printing (p) 877/782-6788 www.uspss.org and other contract printers. www.psestamp.com [email protected] The UPSS is the largest Durland Plate Number Organization specializing society devoted to the col- Catalog lecting and study of postal in identification, expertiza- stationery, postal cards, tion and grading of U.S. envelopes, letter sheets and Expertisers Postage Stamps, Covers, other postal products hav- Revenues etc. PSE pub- ing the stamp already American Philatelic lishes a Guide to the printed on it. Expertizing Service Grading of U.S. Stamps (APEX) and The Stamp Market 19th Century Envelopes Mercer Bristow Quarterly Price Guide. Director of Expertizing Either is free upon request. 20th Century Envelopes 100 Match Factory Place U.S. Postal Card Catalog Bellefonte, PA 16823-1367 Periodicals (p) 814/933-3803 U.S. Specimens: (f) 814/933-6128 The following publications Stamped Envelopes and [email protected] will send you a free copy Wrappers of their magazine or news- Krystal Harter Transitive Relationship to paper upon request. Expertizing Coordinator Family Tree of Proofs [email protected] Global Stamp News Contemporary Account (p) 814/933-3803 PO Box 97 of the 1st U.S. Postal (f) 814/933-6128 Sidney, OH 45365-0097 Card www.stamps.org (p) 937/492-3183 A service of the American [email protected] U.S. Commemorative Philatelic Society, APEX Stamped Envelopes, America’s largest-circula- utilizes the outstanding 1867-1965 tion monthly stamp maga- reference collections at zine featuring U.S. and U.S. Envelope Essays APS headquarters in con- foreign issues. and Proofs Canal Zone junction with the nation's Postal Stationery best philatelic scholars to Linn’s Stamp News pass judgement on the PO Box 29 Universal Ship identification, authenticity Sidney, OH 45365-0029 Cancellation Society and condition of stamps (p) 937/498-0801 Steve Shay from around the world. (f) 937/498-0876 747 Shard Court (f) 888/340-8388 (toll free) Fremont, CA 94539-7419 Philatelic Foundation [email protected] e-mail: [email protected] Attention: Chairman www.linns.com www.uscs.org George J. Kramer Linn’s Stamp News, the 70 W 40th Street 15th Flr. Specializes in naval ship world’s largest weekly New York, NY 10018-2615 postmarks and cachets. stamp newspaper, contains (p) 212/221-6555 breaking news stories of (f) 212/221-6208 major importance to stamp www.philatelicfoundation. collectors. A sample copy org of the weekly news-paper is available upon request.

20 Linn’s U.S. Stamp Scott Standard Postage library materials. Call the Yearbook Stamp Catalogue museum or its library (p) 937/498-0802 (202/633-9370) to schedule (f) 800/572-6885 (US only) Scott Classic an appointment. (f) 937/498-0807 (outside Specialized Catalogue: US) Stamps and Covers of The Postal History [email protected] the World including Foundation www.linns.com U.S., 1840-1940 Betsy Towle (British Commonwealth PO Box 40725 Linn’s World Stamp to 1952) Tucson, AZ 85717-0725 Almanac (p) 520/623-6652 Scott Stamp Monthly (f) 520/623-6652 Stamp Collecting Made www.postalhistoryfoundat Easy Museums, Libraries and ion.org Mekeel’s & Stamps Displays Hours: M-F 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Magazine-fa The Foundation has a John Dunn American Philatelic world class collection of 42 Sentry Way Research Library postal history information Merrimack, NH 03054- 100 Match Factory Place and artifacts and is a pio- 4407 Bellefonte, PA 16823-1367 neer in its provision of stampnews@StampNews (p) 814/933-3803 youth philatelic education Now.com (f) 814/933-6128 programs. It offers www.StampNewsNow.com [email protected] museum tours, research Weekly magazine for col- www.stamplibrary.org library, USPS contract lectors of U.S. & world- The largest philatelic post office, philatelic sales, wide stamps & covers. library in the US, the archives and stamp collec- APRL receives more than tions. U.S. Stamp News-fb 400 periodicals, and 42 Sentry Way houses extensive collec- San Diego County Merrimack, NH 03054- tions of philatelic literature. Philatelic Library 4407 Al Kish, Library Manager stampnews@StampNews The Collectors Club 7403C Princess View Dr. Now.com Irene Bromberg San Diego, CA 92120-1345 www.StampNewsNow.com Executive Secretary (p) 619/229-8813 Hours: Mon. 1 p.m.–4 p.m. Monthly magazine for all 22 E. 35th Street and 6:30 p.m.–9 p.m., collectors of U.S. stamps, New York, NY 10016-3806 Tues. 5 p.m.–8 p.m., Wed. covers and postal history. (p) 212/683-0559 (f) 212/481-1269 1 p.m.–9 p.m., Thurs. 6 Stamp Fulfillment [email protected] p.m.– 9 p.m., Sat. 9 p.m.–3 Services www.collectorsclub.org p.m. Closed Fri. and Sun. U.S. Postal Service Bimonthly journal, publica- Spellman Museum of 8300 NE Underground Dr tion of various reference Stamps and Postal Pillar 210 works, one of the most History Kansas City, MO 64144- extensive reference libraries Edward S. Sternick, Ph.D. 0001 in the world, reading and Executive Director (p) 1-800-STAMP-24 study rooms. 235 Wellesley Street Weston, MA 02493-1538 Scott Specialized National Postal Catalogue of United (p) 781/768-8367 Museum (f) 781/768-7332 States Stamps and Office of the Director Covers [email protected] Smithsonian National www.spellman.org PO Box 828 Postal Museum Sidney, OH 45365-0828 2 Massachusetts Ave, NE America’s first fully accred- (p) 937/498-0831 Washington, D.C. 20013- ited museum devoted to the (p) 800/572-6885 0570 display, collection and (f) 937/498-0807 (p) 202/633-5502 preservation of stamps and [email protected] burmeisterc2si.edu postal history. Exhibitions www.amosadvantage.com feature rarities, U.S., and National Postal Museum worldwide collections. houses more than 16 milion Philatelic library and fam- items for exhibition and ily activity center open study purposes. Collections with admission. research may be conducted separately or jointly with

21 Western Philatelic The Inverted Jenny This site is updated twice Library A Dream Come True. a month. PO Box 2219 (How-to-do-it is excellent Sunnyvale, CA 94087-2219 Operation HUSH – HUSH for beginners) (p) 408/733-0336 A weekly newsletter is [email protected] How the Project Mercury available which provides www.pbbooks.com/wpl.htm Stamp was Planned and descriptive information on www.fwpl.org Issued. U.S. pictorial postmarks. Friends of the Western The Hammarskjold A free sample is available. Invert Philatelic Library Fleetwood’s Standard Wineburgh Philatelic Tells the story of the Dag First Day Cover Catalog Research Library Hammarskjold error/invert. Fleetwood Unicover Corporation Special Collections Dept. The U.S. Transportation 1 Unicover Center Erik D. Carlson, Ph.D. Coils McDermott Library Cheyenne, WY 82008-0001 The University of Texas at How some collectors (p) 307/771-3238 Dallas struck it rich! (p) 800/443-3232 (toll free) PO Box 830643 (f) 307/771-3134 Mailstation: MC33 The White Ace Album www.unicover.com Richardson, TX 75083- Format Guide Precancel Stamp 0643 A Listing of Stamps Society Catalogs (p) 972/883-2570 Required for The 2003 Dick Laetsch www.utdallas.edu/library/s United States White Ace 3 Shady Creek Lane pecial/wprl.html Album Supplements. Free. Scarborough, ME 04074- Hours: M-Th 9 a.m.–6 p.m.; 8480 Fri 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Brookman’s 1st Edition Black Heritage First Day (p) 207/883-2505 Cachet Cover Catalog [email protected] Exchange Service Arlene Dunn www.precanceledstamps.com Brookman/Barrett & Precancel approvals Stamp Master Worthen available. Charles Bergeron 10 Chestnut Drive PO Box 17 Bedford, NH 03110-5566 Stamp Collecting Made Putnam Hall, FL 32185- (p) 603/472-5575 Easy 0017 (f) 603/472-8795 Amos Hobby Publishing Co. [email protected] PO Box 828 Illustrated 176-page per- Sidney, OH 045365-0097 An “electronic connection” fect bound book. (p) 937/498-0807 for philatelists via com- (p) 800/572-6885 puter to display/review Brookman’s 2nd Edition (f) 937/498-0807 members’ stamp inventories Price Guide for Disney for trading purposes, etc. Stamps An illustrated, easy-to- Illustrated 256-page per- read, 96-page booklet for fect bound book. beginning collectors. Literature 2005 Brookman Price The U.S. Postal Service: ArtCraft First Day Cover Guide of U.S., and An American History, Price List Canada Stamps and Pub. 100 Washington Press Postal Collectibles Historian 2 Vreeland Road United States Postal Service Illustrated 384-page perfect Florham Park, NJ 07932- 475 L’Enfant Plaza SW and spiral bound catalog. 1501 Washington, DC 20260-0012 (p) 202/268-2507 (p) 877/966-0001 (toll free) Postmark Advisory [email protected] [email protected] Paul Brenner www.usps.com www.washpress.com General Image, Inc. Includes Presidential PO Box 335 Tells the history of the Inaugural covers. Maplewood, NJ 07040- U.S. Postal Service from 0335 1775 to the present. One Legends of the West [email protected] free copy. Washington Press There is also a web site How some collectors announcing these struck it rich! postmarks. The address is: home.earthlink.net/~post mark1

22 Sources of Historical GERMANY THAILAND Information on Post Georg Roll Stamps LTD International House of Offices, Postal Hafenstrasse 8 Stamps Employees, Mail Routes D-26931 Elsfleth 98/2 Soi Tonson and Mail Contractors, Hermann Sieger GMBH Langsuan Rd Pub. 119 Venusberg 32-34 Lumpinee, Pathumwan Lists all known federal D73545 Lorch Bangkok 10330 sources of information on Wurttemberg UNITED KINGDOM topics covered in the title. Harry Allen One free copy. HONG KONG Hongkong Post PO Box 5 www.usps.com/postmaster 1706-7, ING Tower Watford Herts WD2 5SW finder 308-320 Des Voeux Road Central Philatelic Centers International Sheung Wan AUSTRALIA The Postal Service also ITALY maintains Philatelic Max Stern Alberto Bolaffi 234 Flinders Street Centers located in many Via Cavour 17 areas to serve stamp Box 997 H 10123 Torino GPO Melbourne 3001 collectors with an extensive JAPAN range of philatelic products. CANADA Japan Philatelic Agency Canada Post PO Box 96 Toshima Call 800-275-8777 2701 Riverside Dr. Tokyo 170-8668 or visit us online at Suite N0420 www.usps.com Ottawa ON K1A 0B1 NETHERLANDS TPG Post CHINA Prinses Beatrixlann 23 China National P O Box 30250 Philatelic Corporation 2500 GC The Hague 14, Taipinghu Dongli, Xicheng District SPAIN Beijing, 100031 Philagroup, S. L. Manuel Tovar, 1, 4 izda DENMARK 28034 Madrid Nordfrim DK 5450 Otterup

Credits and Terrence W. McCaffrey DESIGN SERVICES Acknowledgments Manager, Design, Production and Stamp Development The Art of Stamp Collecting Project Manager was produced by Government Cindy Tackett Roberta Wojtkowski Design Relations and Public Policy, Manager, 10992 Thrush Ridge Road Stamp Services, U.S. Postal Stamp Products and Reston, VA 20191 Exhibitions Service. DIGITAL SERVICES Sonja D. Edison John E. Potter Journey Group, Inc. Project Manager and Editor Postmaster General and 418 Fourth St., NE Chief Executive Officer EDITORIAL SERVICES Charlottesville, Va 22902

Marie Therese Dominguez PhotoAssist, Inc. Senior Vice President, Regina Swygert-Smith Government Relations 7735 Old Georgetown Rd David E. Failor Bethesda, MD 20814 Executive Director, Stamp Services

23 THE ART OF Stamp Collecting

The designs of stamps and postal stationery issued since January 1, 1978

are the subject of individual copyrights by the U.S. Postal Service.