Postal Stationery: More Than Just Stamps
Postal stationery, with its rich history and significance, goes beyond just stamps. It encompasses various stationery items like stamped envelopes, letter sheets, postal cards, and more, all indicating a prepaid postage rate. Dating back to at least 1608, postal stationery provides valuable insights into historical postal systems and services, offering a glimpse into the past.
Key Takeaways:
- Postal stationery includes various stationery items with an imprinted stamp or inscription indicating prepaid postage.
- It has a rich history dating back to at least 1608 and offers insights into historical postal systems and services.
- Stamped envelopes and postal cards are the most common forms of postal stationery.
- Collecting postal stationery can be done as entires or cut squares.
- There are collectors societies, publications, and auctions dedicated to postal stationery.
What is Postal Stationery?
Postal stationery is a category of paper items that hold a printed or implied monetary value and retain their worth until canceled or demonetized. These unique pieces play a pivotal role in the world of philately and are highly collectible. The most common forms of postal stationery include stamped envelopes and postal cards.
Stamped envelopes are envelopes that have a pre-printed stamp design on them, indicating a prepaid postage rate. They are ready to be used by simply addressing them and adding the sender’s return address. Postal cards, on the other hand, are pre-printed cards with a section for writing a message and an assigned space for the address.
Postal stationery extends beyond just envelopes and cards. It also encompasses other paper items associated with postal services, such as postal savings forms or money order forms, which have value stamps printed on them. These items hold monetary value and are considered part of the postal stationery category.
What sets postal stationery apart from regular postage stamps is its unique design. Postal stationery often features pictorial elements, making it visually appealing and adding to its collectability. These designs can range from intricate patterns to thematic illustrations, showcasing the creativity and artistry of the postal stationery designers.
Overall, postal stationery is a significant addition to any topical or thematic collection. It offers enthusiasts the opportunity to delve into a niche area of philately and explore the historical, cultural, and artistic aspects of the postal world.
History of Postal Stationery
Postal stationery has a long and fascinating history that dates back to the 17th century. Early examples of postal stationery include the Venetian prepaid letter sheet of 1608 and the British newspaper stamps of 1712. These early forms of prepaid communication laid the foundation for the development of postal stationery as we know it today.
The modern concept of postal stationery took shape with the introduction of the stamped envelope by the United Kingdom in 1841. This innovative form of postal communication featured a pre-printed stamp on the envelope, indicating the prepaid postage. This groundbreaking invention was quickly adopted by other countries, including the United States in 1853.
Another significant milestone in postal stationery history was the introduction of the postal card in Austria-Hungary in 1869. This new form of communication provided individuals with a convenient and affordable way to send short messages without the need for an envelope.
Throughout the years, postal stationery has continued to evolve, reflecting the changing needs of society. Today, it remains an integral part of the philatelic world, cherished by collectors for its historical significance and artistic designs.
Collecting Postal Stationery
Postal stationery, with its fascinating history and unique designs, offers collectors a treasure trove of collectible items. When it comes to building a postal stationery collection, collectors have two main options: collecting entires or cut squares.
Entires: Collecting the Whole Story
Entires refer to the complete card, sheet, or envelope of the postal stationery item. Many collectors prefer collecting entires as they provide a wealth of information about the specific item and its cancellation. Each entires bears the unique characteristics of the postal stationery, including its design, postmark, and any handwritten notes or markings. These entires offer a glimpse into the historical context and journey of the mail.
Collecting entires allows enthusiasts to explore the rich tapestry of postal history, uncovering stories from around the world one piece at a time.
Cut Squares: Focusing on the Details
Another popular approach to collecting postal stationery is to focus on cut squares. Cut squares are clipped from the embossed or pre-printed indicia of postal stationery entires. Collectors often seek specific dies and paper types when building their cut square collections. These smaller pieces provide a closer look at the intricate details of the design and can be used to identify different varieties or production variations of postal stationery items.
Organizing and Displaying Your Collection
Proper organization and display are crucial for any postal stationery collection. Collectors can choose from various tools and methods, such as stock books, albums with cellulose pockets, or archival sleeves, to keep their items safe and well-preserved. These storage options allow for easy browsing and protection against damage caused by handling or environmental factors.
Remember, the key to maintaining a beautiful collection is proper care and storage.
Resources for Collectors
For collectors looking to expand their knowledge and stay up to date with the latest discoveries, there are specialized catalogs and publications available. These resources provide valuable insights into the world of postal stationery, showcasing rare and unique items, as well as providing information on current market values.
Immerse yourself in the world of postal stationery with resources tailored to collectors’ needs.
Whether you choose to focus on entires or cut squares, collecting postal stationery offers a journey through time, captivating stories of communication, and the beauty of unique designs. Start building your own collection today and explore the world of postal stationery!
Collectors Societies and Publications
Joining collectors societies and accessing publications dedicated to postal stationery can greatly enhance your collecting experience. These societies connect you with like-minded enthusiasts and provide valuable resources, information, and guidance. Some notable collectors societies include:
- United Postal Stationery Society: This society, based in the United States, is dedicated to promoting the study and collecting of postal stationery. Members can access publications, participate in discussions, and stay updated on the latest developments in the field.
- Postal Stationery Society of Great Britain: For collectors based in the United Kingdom, this society offers a platform to connect, exchange knowledge, and access publications specific to British postal stationery.
- Postal Stationery Society of Australia: Designed for collectors in Australia, this society provides a wealth of information, publications, and opportunities to connect with fellow enthusiasts in the region.
These societies often publish newsletters, journals, or magazines that cover various aspects of postal stationery, including historical insights, collecting tips, and updates on new releases and discoveries. Subscribing to these publications keeps you informed and connected to the postal stationery community. Additionally, specialized catalogs like the Higgins & Gage World Postal Stationery Catalog are essential resources for collectors, providing comprehensive listings and information on different postal stationery items.
By actively engaging with collectors societies and publications, you can stay up to date with the latest developments in the field of postal stationery, discover new postal stationery items, and connect with fellow collectors who share your passion.
Notable Postal Stationery Auctions
Postal stationery auctions provide an exciting opportunity for collectors to acquire rare and valuable postal stationery items. These auctions feature a wide range of items from different countries, offering a diverse selection for enthusiasts. Auction houses often showcase postal stationery from countries like the United States, Great Britain, European countries, as well as countries from other regions such as Asia and South America.
These auctions present collectors with the chance to obtain rare entires, cut squares, essays, proofs, and other unique postal stationery items. Whether you’re looking for a specific rarity or interested in exploring the fascinating world of postal history, these auctions cater to various collecting interests.
Explore a Variety of Items
Postal stationery auctions feature a wide range of items that appeal to collectors with different preferences and interests. From rare and elusive entires to intricately designed cut squares, these auctions offer something for everyone.
- Rare entires: Rare and unique stamped envelopes, letter sheets, postal cards, and aerograms
- Cut squares: Clipped portions of embossed or pre-printed indicia from postal stationery entires
- Essays and proofs: Experimental or trial designs of postal stationery items
- Other items: Various postal stationery items that showcase the rich history and diversity of the hobby
Participate in Various Channels
Collectors have multiple options for participating in postal stationery auctions. Online platforms like eBay provide a convenient way to browse and bid on items from the comfort of your home. Collectors societies and auction houses also regularly organize postal stationery auctions, providing opportunities to engage with like-minded enthusiasts.
Participating in postal stationery auctions allows collectors to expand their collections, discover rare gems, and connect with fellow hobbyists. The thrill of the auction process adds an extra element of excitement to acquiring unique postal stationery items.
Postal stationery auctions are a treasure trove for collectors, offering a chance to acquire rare stamps, delve into postal history, and uncover unique pieces of postal stationery. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting your collection, these auctions provide a platform to explore, learn, and build your own unique collection of postal stationery items.
Rare Postal Stationery Examples
Postal stationery collectors are always on the lookout for rare and unique items that add value and intrigue to their collections. Here, we highlight some exceptional examples of postal stationery that are highly sought after.
The Nesbitt Series of Stamped Envelopes
The Nesbitt series of stamped envelopes stands out as a prime example of rare postal stationery. These envelopes, produced in the mid-19th century, are known for their scarcity and captivating designs. With their intricate artwork and distinctive embossing, Nesbitt envelopes are highly desirable among collectors.
Unique Entires that Tell a Story
“Holden Brothers” Return Address: 1874 3c Green Entire
Another remarkable rarity in the realm of postal stationery is the 1874 3c green entire with a pre-printed “Holden Brothers” return address. This enthralling piece of postal history provides a glimpse into the past and showcases the artistry of earlier postal communications.
1860 10c Green on Buff Entire
The 1860 10c green on buff entire is yet another exceptional example of rare postal stationery. This entire, with its striking color and intricate design, reflects the craftsmanship and attention to detail that went into creating these historical pieces.
These rare examples of postal stationery demonstrate the diversity and collectability that make the hobby so fascinating. Whether it’s the coveted Nesbitt series or entires with unique designs and pre-printed addresses, each item tells a story and adds a significant touch of historical charm to any collection.
Postal Stationery Essays and Proofs
Postal stationery essays and proofs offer collectors a fascinating glimpse into the design and development process of postal stationery. These experimental or trial designs were created during the production process to explore different artistic elements, layouts, and printing techniques.
Examples of postal stationery essays and proofs include the 1900 Patent Reply unused postal card essay and various envelope essays and proofs from different time periods. These unique items showcase the creativity and innovation that went into the creation of postal stationery, providing collectors with a deeper appreciation for the artistry involved.
Postal stationery essays and proofs are highly sought after by collectors due to their scarcity and distinctive characteristics. They offer a one-of-a-kind opportunity to own a piece of postal history that never made it into production. Whether it’s an experimental design that ultimately wasn’t chosen or a trial print run for quality control purposes, these items capture a moment in the creation process and hold a special place in any postal stationery collection.
Postal stationery essays and proofs are a testament to the creativity and artistry behind postal stationery designs. Collectors value these rare items for their historical significance and unique characteristics.
Postal Stationery Rarity and Valuation
Postal stationery rarities are highly coveted by collectors due to their scarcity and unique attributes. These rare items can include specific dies, sizes, watermarks, or even one-of-a-kind designs. The valuation of postal stationery depends on various factors, including the item’s condition, rarity, demand, and prevailing market trends.
Collectors often refer to catalog values as a reference point for determining the potential worth of specific postal stationery items. Catalogs provide comprehensive listings of postal stationery along with their associated values based on market research and historical data. These catalog values can serve as a useful starting point for collectors, but it’s important to note that actual prices realized in auctions or sales may differ due to factors such as condition and buyer interest.
Image: Postal stationery rarity
United States Postal Stationery Rarity
The United States is home to several rare and highly sought-after postal stationery items. These rarities contribute to the allure and excitement of collecting postal stationery. Some notable examples include:
- The 1884 2c red on fawn cut square, which is one of only 3-4 known cut squares of its kind.
- The 1887 1c blue on oriental buff cut square, of which there are believed to be only nine in existence.
- The 6c Whale (Moby Dick) blue large die proof from the United States Envelope Company. This unique rarity is highly sought after by collectors.
These United States rarities are prized possessions in the world of postal stationery collecting. They showcase the diversity and uniqueness of postal stationery designs and are cherished by enthusiasts around the globe.
Postal Stationery Essay and Proof Examples
Postal stationery essays and proofs offer collectors a fascinating glimpse into the design and development process of postal stationery items. These unique pieces showcase the creative and innovative aspects of postal stationery design, providing invaluable insights into the evolution of this philatelic specialty. Examples of postal stationery essays and proofs demonstrate the variety of designs and ideas explored by manufacturers and designers over the years.
Proposed Designs for “Lettergram Priority Mail” Letter Sheet
A notable example of a postal stationery essay is the proposed design for a “Lettergram Priority Mail” international airmail letter sheet. This essay represents a conceptual design for an airmail stationery item, combining functionality with an eye-catching design. The proposed layout and graphics reflect the effort to create a visually appealing and efficient piece of postal stationery for international correspondence.
Essays and Proofs from Various Envelope Manufacturers
Envelope manufacturers like the United States Envelope Company and International Envelope Company have also produced a range of essays and proofs for their postal stationery offerings. These examples feature different designs, color variations, and printing techniques, providing collectors with a deeper understanding of the design process and the variations in the final product. The essays and proofs from these manufacturers showcase the attention to detail and the quest for excellence in postal stationery design.
Postal stationery essays and proofs are highly sought after by collectors due to their uniqueness and scarcity. They serve as valuable additions to any postal stationery collection, shedding light on the intricacies of design and the evolution of these philatelic treasures.
Building a Postal Stationery Collection
Are you passionate about postal stationery? Building a collection of these unique items can be an exciting and rewarding endeavor. To start your collection, you’ll need to acquire postal stationery through various means. This can include trading with other collectors, purchasing from reputable dealers, participating in auctions, or exploring online platforms and sales circuits.
To enrich your knowledge and stay up to date with new releases and discoveries, utilize specialized catalogs, books, and publications dedicated to postal stationery. These resources provide invaluable information about rare items, historical contexts, and design elements. By referencing them, you can make informed decisions about which pieces to add to your collection.
Joining collectors societies or study groups focused on postal stationery can also be beneficial. These communities connect you with fellow enthusiasts who can offer guidance, share their expertise, and provide valuable insights. By participating in these groups, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of postal stationery and discover new opportunities to expand your collection.
Acquiring and building a postal stationery collection requires patience, dedication, and a passion for this unique hobby. As you curate your collection, each item becomes a part of postal history and holds its own story. Enjoy the journey of exploring, acquiring, and preserving these fascinating pieces of postal stationery.
