Gum on Stamps: A Sticky History
In the world of philately, the gum on stamps holds a fascinating history. Dating back to the invention of the Penny Black in 1837 by Rowland Hill, stamp gum has played a crucial role in the evolution of postage stamps. Before adhesive stamps, letters were paid for based on weight and distance traveled, but Hill’s prepayment solution led to the development of stamp gum.
Early stamps were gummed with various substances such as gum arabic and synthetic formulations, as well as a mixture of potato starch, wheat starch, and acacia gum. The application of gum has evolved over time, from manual brush or roller application to machine gumming. Different types of gum, including dextrin, gum arabic, glue, and polyvinyl alcohol, were used.
Gum on stamps can vary in appearance, from nearly invisible to dark brown globs. In some cases, gum was applied in patterns resembling watermarks for added security. However, the gumming process has presented challenges, such as stamp curling due to moisture levels. To minimize curling, solutions such as grilled gum or sliced gum were implemented.
Key Takeaways:
- The invention of stamp gum was a result of prepayment solutions for postage.
- Gum on stamps has evolved from manual application to machine gumming.
- Different types of gum, including dextrin, gum arabic, glue, and polyvinyl alcohol, were used.
- Gum on stamps can vary in appearance and even be applied in patterns resembling watermarks.
- Stamp curling due to moisture levels presented challenges that led to innovative solutions.
The Importance of Gum in Philately
Gum is of utmost importance in the world of philately. It plays a significant role in ensuring that stamps adhere securely to letters or other mailed items. Without gum, stamps would simply not be able to fulfill their purpose as a means of prepayment for postage.
One of the key aspects of gum is its role in the authentication of stamps. The presence and condition of gum can provide valuable clues about the legitimacy and originality of a stamp. Collectors and philatelists closely examine the gum on stamps to determine their authenticity and differentiate between genuine stamps and those that have been altered or regummed.
The condition of the gum is particularly important in determining the value of stamps. Mint stamps with intact, undamaged original gum are prized by collectors and command higher prices in the market. The presence of full gum adds to the desirability and scarcity of stamps, especially for rare or uncommon varieties.
However, it’s crucial for collectors to be aware of regumming, a deceptive practice where stamps with damaged or missing gum are artificially regummed to appear in better condition. Regumming can be difficult to detect, and it can significantly impact the value and authenticity of a stamp. Therefore, collectors must have a thorough understanding of the characteristics of original gum to accurately identify regummed stamps.
Overall, the significance of gum in stamp collecting cannot be overstated. It not only ensures the functional purpose of stamps but also plays a crucial role in determining their authenticity, desirability, and market value.
History of Gumming and Types of Gum
Throughout the history of stamp production, the application of gum has undergone significant advancements. Initially, gumming stamps was done manually, using brushes or rollers. However, in 1880, De La Rue introduced a groundbreaking machine gumming process using a printing press, which revolutionized the gumming process. Today, gumming is universally done by machines.
In the early days, gumming occurred after the printing process but before perforation. This was because the paper needed to be damp for printing to work effectively. However, modern stamp printing is mostly done on pre-gummed paper in a dry state.
Gum varieties used on stamps can differ in appearance and composition. Some of the commonly used types include dextrin, gum arabic or acacia gum, glue (although rarely seen on stamps), and polyvinyl alcohol. The appearance of gum can range from nearly invisible to dark brown globs. In some cases, stamps even have gum applied in patterns resembling watermarks as an additional security measure.
The gumming process has also witnessed intriguing historical practices. During times of material shortages, stamps were gummed with economy gum, which involved applying gum patches. These diverse gumming methods and gum types contribute to the fascinating history of gum on stamps, reflecting the evolution and innovation in stamp production.
Challenges in the Gumming Process
The gumming process in stamp production has not been without its challenges. One of the main issues faced is the tendency of stamps to curl as a result of different moisture reactions between the paper and gum. In extreme cases, stamp curling can lead to the stamps rolling up into small tubes, causing inconvenience for collectors and postal workers alike.
To mitigate this problem, various methods have been implemented over time. One approach involves the use of gum-breaking machines, which mechanically create a pattern of small squares on the gum surface, resulting in what is known as grilled gum. Another technique experimented with has been slicing the gum with knives after application, aiming to release any tension caused by the moisture imbalance.
In some instances, the gum itself has been the solution to the curling dilemma. By naturally drying, the gum becomes “crackly” and helps alleviate the curling problem. However, despite the efforts made to overcome curling challenges, stamp curling remains an ongoing issue in the gumming process.
These challenges in the gumming process have sparked innovation and contributed to the evolution of gum on stamps. Stamp manufacturers and philatelists continue to strive for solutions that will result in stamps that lay flat and adhere consistently, enhancing the overall experience for collectors and ensuring the seamless processing of stamped mail.
Self-Adhesive Stamps
In recent years, the use of self-adhesive stamps has revolutionized the world of philately. Also known as pressure-sensitive stamps, these stamps have gained widespread popularity due to their ease of use and convenience. Instead of traditional gumming, self-adhesive stamps feature a smooth waxed or polymer-coated release carrier backing. The stamp’s pressure-adhesive adhesive does not adhere as strongly to the backing as it would to paper, allowing for easy release of the stamps and effortless application onto envelopes.
The transition to self-adhesive stamps has been gradual. Sierra Leone was the first country to introduce self-adhesive stamps in 1964, followed by the United States in 1974. Initially, self-adhesive stamps faced challenges such as adhesive difficulty removal and mottling of stamp paper. However, advancements in adhesive formulations and production techniques have addressed these issues, making self-adhesive stamps more practical and widely accepted.
Self-adhesive stamps offer several advantages. They eliminate the need for licking or moistening the stamps, making them cleaner and more hygienic to use. The stamps can be easily removed from the backing and applied without any hassle, saving time and effort for postal customers. These stamps are especially convenient for large-scale mailings and automated sorting systems.
Despite their advantages, there are considerations when it comes to the long-term preservation of self-adhesive stamps. The adhesive used in these stamps may degrade over time and could potentially damage stamps and album pages. It’s essential to handle and store self-adhesive stamps carefully to prevent any harm. Collectors and philatelists may prefer traditional gummed stamps for their historical value and ease of preservation.
Overall, the introduction of self-adhesive stamps has significantly transformed stamp production and collection. These stamps have streamlined the mailing process and offered a more user-friendly experience for both collectors and postal customers. While self-adhesive stamps have their pros and cons, their widespread adoption reflects the ever-evolving nature of the philatelic industry.
Health Risks Associated with Stamp Gum
Stamp gum, particularly on gummed paper, presents potential health risks. A study conducted in 1965 on gummed paper found that pathogenic bacteria and viruses introduced into the gum could multiply and adhere to the surface of the paper.
Licking gummed stamps without knowing their handling history poses a risk of bacterial contamination. Concerns about the health risks of licking gummed paper have been highlighted in popular culture, such as in a Seinfeld episode where a character is poisoned after licking gummed envelopes. This episode has been linked anecdotally to increased worries about the health risks of licking gummed paper and the growing popularity of self-adhesive stamps as a result.
These health risks associated with stamp gum have raised awareness among collectors and users.
Gum and Stamp Collecting
Gum plays a significant role in stamp collecting. Collectors have different preferences when it comes to gum, with some collectors specifically seeking mint stamps with full, undamaged original gum. The condition of gum on stamps can affect their valuation, with stamps in mint, never-hinged condition with full gum being valued highest.
Gum condition is often reflected in the valuation of unused stamps, with distinctions made between mint, lightly hinged, unused without gum, and stamps issued without any gum at all. The presence and condition of gum can also be used to differentiate between common stamps and those that are rarer and more desirable.
Regumming, a deceptive practice of adding gum to stamps to enhance their condition, is a concern for collectors who value authenticity and original gum. Experts in philately specialize in detecting regummed stamps and play an important role in expertization. The integrity of gum is an essential consideration for collectors, and the removal of paper residue from gum without affecting the gum itself is a preservation practice.
Gum’s significance in the world of stamp collecting showcases its impact on the value and desirability of stamps.
Collectors’ preferences for gum:
- Mint stamps with full, undamaged original gum
- Stamps in never-hinged condition
Valuation based on gum condition:
- Mint stamps with full gum valued highest
- Differentiation between mint, lightly hinged, unused without gum, and stamps issued without any gum
Detecting regummed stamps:
- Experts in philately specialize in detecting regummed stamps
- Authenticity and original gum are highly valued
Varieties and Damage Caused by Stamp Gum
Stamp gum can give rise to a wide range of characteristics and damage on stamps, making each one unique. For thematic collectors, stamps with imprints on the adhesive that are related to the stamp’s occasion or design hold special interest. These imprints or other anomalies unintentionally present on the gum side are sought after by collectors interested in uncommon varieties.
The gumming process itself can sometimes cause damage to stamps and their paper. Issues like disintegration, discoloration, or brittleness may occur due to the interaction between the gum and the stamp. However, mint stamps with full, undamaged original gum are highly valued by collectors. The presence and condition of the gum play a significant role in determining the overall condition of unused stamps.
In some cases, hinge remnants, which are adhesive remnants left on the back of stamps from using stamp hinges, can indicate heavy hinging, repeated hinging, or regumming. The presence of these remnants can provide valuable insights for collectors and expert philatelists. Careful examination of the gum and its interaction with stamp paper is crucial in preserving stamps effectively.
To ensure the longevity of stamps, proper handling and storage practices must be implemented. This includes protecting stamps from excessive moisture, extreme temperatures, and sunlight. Additionally, the removability of gum from stamps without damaging the stamp itself is another preservation consideration. Taking into account the complexities that arise from the condition of gum and its impact on stamp paper, collectors and enthusiasts are advised to exercise caution and adopt suitable preservation practices.
Gumming and Preservation Challenges
The preservation of postage stamps is a delicate task, especially when it comes to the gum used on them. The gumming process, while crucial for stamp adhesion, can also lead to various challenges and potential damage. Depending on the formulation, stamp gum can crack, curl, discolor, and even eat into the paper. It may also attract vermin, stick to stamp album pages, and cause other issues that compromise the stamps’ integrity and appearance. In some cases, stamps have gum containing acid, which can gradually destroy the stamp paper over time.
Older stamps often have significantly thick gum, which can be prone to breaking due to changes in air humidity and temperature. This can ultimately result in the disintegration of the stamps, rendering them irreparable. To combat these preservation challenges, collectors and experts recommend removing gum from affected stamps. However, it should be noted that gum is an integral part of stamp history and collecting, and its removal should only be undertaken with caution and expertise.
To ensure the preservation of gummed stamps, proper storage practices are crucial. Using stamp mounts can help protect stamps from direct contact with album pages, reducing the risk of gum sticking or damage. It is also important to avoid exposing stamps to excessive humidity, sunlight, and extreme temperature fluctuations, as these factors can accelerate gum-associated deterioration. By following these care guidelines, collectors can help mitigate the long-term effects of gumming and ensure the longevity of their valuable stamp collections.
