The Sticky Side of Philately: Understanding Stamp Gum
In the world of philately, there’s more to postage stamps than meets the eye. Behind their colorful designs and historical significance lies a sticky secret: stamp gum. In this article, we’ll explore the fascinating world of understanding stamp gum, from its history to its different types and applications.
Stamp gum refers to the adhesive backing applied to the back of a stamp, allowing it to stick to letters and other mailed items. It may seem like a small detail, but the use of stamp gum revolutionized the postal system when it was introduced alongside the world’s first adhesive postage stamp, the Penny Black, in 1837.
Different types of gum have been used on stamps throughout history, including gum arabic, dextrin, polyvinyl alcohol, and glue. The application of gum has also evolved over time, from being hand-applied to being done by machines. However, gum conditions such as cracked gum, glazed gum, and excess gum can affect the value and appearance of stamps.
In recent years, self-adhesive stamps have become more common, presenting their own set of preservation challenges. These stamps have a pressure-sensitive adhesive that allows them to be easily released from their backing and placed onto envelopes. While they offer convenience, issues with removal from backing paper and long-term preservation have been observed.
Key Takeaways:
- Stamp gum is the adhesive backing applied to the back of a stamp.
- Stamp gum dates back to the invention of the Penny Black in 1837.
- There are different types of gum used on stamps, including gum arabic, dextrin, polyvinyl alcohol, and glue.
- Stamp gum can affect the value and appearance of stamps.
- Self-adhesive stamps have become more common but come with their own preservation challenges.
History of Stamp Gum
Before the invention of postage stamps, people had to pay for letters based on the number of papers in the envelope and the distance traveled. Rowland Hill’s invention of stamp gum in 1837 led to the creation of the world’s first adhesive postage stamp, the Penny Black. This innovation revolutionized the postal system by allowing for prepayment of postage and easier mailing of letters. Early stamps were not gummed, but gum started to be applied by hand using brushes or rollers. The first stamps in Great Britain had gum made from a mixture of potato starch, wheat starch, and acacia gum.
Types and Application of Stamp Gum
In the world of stamp collecting, stamp gum plays a crucial role in the adhesive backing of postage stamps. Different types of gum have been used throughout history, each with its own characteristics and application methods. Let’s explore the various types of stamp gum and the techniques used in its application.
Types of Stamp Gum
Stamp gum has evolved over the years, with different materials being utilized to achieve the desired adhesive properties. Here are some common types of stamp gum:
- Gum arabic: This type of gum is derived from the sap of the acacia tree and is known for its transparent and glossy appearance.
- Dextrin: Made from starch, dextrin gum provides a strong adhesive bond and is often used for self-adhesive stamps.
- Glue: Traditional glue-based gum is commonly used on older stamps and provides a secure and durable adhesion.
- Polyvinyl alcohol: This synthetic gum offers excellent water resistance and is commonly used for modern self-adhesive stamps.
Each type of gum has its own characteristics, affecting the appearance and performance of stamps. The application method varies depending on the type of gum used.
Application of Stamp Gum
The application process of stamp gum has evolved over time, transforming from a manual process to modern machine-based techniques. Early gum application was done by hand, with brushes or rollers being used to apply gum to the stamps. However, with advancements in technology, a machine gumming process was introduced by De La Rue in 1880.
In modern stamp printing, the gum is usually applied to pre-gummed paper before the printing process takes place. This ensures a uniform and consistent application of the gum. The machine gumming process involves the use of machines that apply the gum in a precise and controlled manner.
Gumming stamps can sometimes cause them to curl. To prevent this, various techniques have been employed, such as the use of a gum-breaking machine or the slicing of the gum after application.
The appearance of the gum can vary, ranging from nearly invisible to dark brown globs, depending on the type of gum and its application method.
Self-Adhesive Stamps
In recent years, self-adhesive stamps, also known as pressure-sensitive stamps, have gained popularity in the world of philately. These stamps offer a convenient alternative to traditional gummed stamps, with their own unique set of advantages and challenges.
Unlike traditional stamps that require licking or moistening to activate the adhesive, self-adhesive stamps come with a pre-applied adhesive on the back. The adhesive is pressure-sensitive, meaning it adheres to surfaces when pressure is applied.
The self-adhesive stamps have a smooth waxed or polymer-coated release carrier backing. This backing ensures that the pressure-adhesive of the stamp does not adhere as strongly as it would on paper. As a result, the stamps can be easily released from the backing and placed onto a postal envelope without any additional moisture.
This innovation in stamp technology was introduced in the 1960s and has gradually gained popularity since then. The United States Post Office transitioned to self-adhesive stamps in the 1990s, marking a significant shift in stamp production.
However, self-adhesive stamps also come with their own set of challenges. One common issue is the difficulty of removing the stamps from the backing paper without damaging them. The adhesive properties and the release carrier backing can sometimes make it tricky to cleanly separate the stamp.
Moreover, long-term preservation of self-adhesive stamps can also be a concern. The adhesive properties of these stamps may deteriorate over time, potentially affecting their adherence and value.
To illustrate the properties of self-adhesive stamps, here’s a table summarizing the key characteristics:
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Adhesive Type | Pressure-sensitive adhesive |
| Backing Material | Smooth waxed or polymer-coated release carrier |
| Activation | No moisture required |
| Removal from Backing | Can be challenging |
| Long-Term Preservation | Potential deterioration of adhesive properties |
This image showcases a collection of self-adhesive stamps, highlighting their unique features and adhesive properties.
Gum Condition and Collecting Considerations
The condition of the gum on a stamp plays a crucial role in determining its value and appeal among collectors. Mint stamps with full, undamaged original gum are highly sought after and considered the pinnacle of stamp collecting. The gum condition also directly influences the valuation of unused stamps, as it reflects the stamp’s overall state of preservation.
Stamps can be classified into different categories based on their gum condition. Mint stamps are those with untouched original gum that remains intact and undamaged. Unused stamps refer to those that are without any gum, often due to intentional removal to prevent sticking. Stamps without gum remnants can also be found, either due to scarcity of gumming materials or to safeguard against gum adhesion between stamps.
However, it’s important to be aware of regummed stamps when considering gum condition. Regumming is a practice where stamps are artificially re-gummed to hide defects or repairs. These regummed stamps may have additional gum added or removed during the process, altering the appearance of the gum. Expert authentication is often required to identify regummed stamps and confirm their authenticity.
Expert collectors know how to detect hinge remnants and differentiate between various gum conditions.
Gum condition is an aspect that dedicated philatelists strive to maintain to preserve the integrity and value of their stamp collections. The gum should display its original characteristics, such as being evenly applied, non-glazed, and free from cracks or excess gum. Collectors carefully examine the gum condition, considering factors like gum disturbances, creases, or damage caused by improper handling, as these can significantly impact a stamp’s worth.
Having a comprehensive understanding of gum condition and its implications in stamp collecting allows collectors to make informed decisions and ensure the long-term preservation of their cherished stamps.
Gum Condition and Stamp Classification
| Gum Condition | Description |
|---|---|
| Mint | Stamps with undisturbed, original gum that remains fully intact and undamaged. |
| Unused | Stamps without any gum, intentionally removed to prevent sticking or due to a lack of gumming materials. |
| Unused without gum | Stamps without gum remnants that can be found due to a lack of gumming materials or to avoid gum adhesion between stamps. |
| Gum Remnants | Stamps with traces or remnants of gum that may have been disturbed or partially removed. |
Varieties and Paper Damage through Stamp Gum
Stamp collectors have a keen eye for the unique and unusual, and stamps with imprints on the gum or stamps printed on the gummed side by mistake are of particular interest to them. These stamps, known as gum varieties, can provide fascinating insights into different production runs and printing errors. Collectors carefully examine these stamps to identify rare and valuable specimens that stand out from the rest.
However, stamp gum, while responsible for the adhesive properties of stamps, can also cause paper damage and preservation issues. Poorly formulated gum can contain excess acid, leading to the destruction of the stamp paper over time. Stamps may develop cracks or become brittle due to fluctuations in air humidity and temperature, posing challenges for collectors who strive to maintain the integrity of their collections.
When severe damage or discoloration caused by gum is present, the delicate process of removing the gum may be necessary to preserve the stamps. This requires careful handling and expertise to ensure the stamp remains intact and its value is not compromised. Collectors may choose to enlist the help of professional restoration specialists when dealing with valuable stamps.
Health Risks and Pop Culture References
While postage stamps may seem harmless, there have been concerns about the potential health risks associated with licking gummed paper. Studies have shown that gummed paper, including the gum on stamps, can harbor bacteria and viruses, posing a potential health hazard to those who come into contact with it.
In a memorable episode of the beloved sitcom Seinfeld, titled “The Invitations,” a character named Susan tragically falls victim to licking too many gummed envelopes for her wedding invitations. This storyline, although fictional, drew attention to the potential health risks of gummed paper and sparked conversations about the importance of safe alternatives.
“George, you have no idea what an epidemic gum disease is in this country. One out of every ten people over 50 has it. I saw it on TV. It’s rampant.” – Jerry Seinfeld
Following the Seinfeld episode, there was an increased awareness of the health risks associated with gummed paper. This awareness, coupled with advancements in stamp technology, contributed to the growing popularity of self-adhesive stamps.
Self-adhesive stamps, also known as pressure-sensitive stamps, gained traction as a safer alternative to traditional gummed stamps. With self-adhesive stamps, there is no need to lick the back; instead, they can be easily peeled off and adhered to envelopes. The rise in popularity of self-adhesive stamps can be attributed, in part, to their perceived health benefits.
It is important to note that the transmission of bacteria and viruses on gummed paper is not a widespread occurrence. Stamps are typically handled with care and pose minimal health risks when handled properly.
Understanding Gum Condition in Stamp Collecting
Gum condition is a vital aspect that stamp collectors consider when evaluating the value and desirability of stamps. The condition of the gum can significantly impact the overall quality and appearance of a stamp, making it an essential factor in assessing its worth.
“Mint stamps with full original gum are highly sought after by collectors.”
Mint stamps, also known as unused stamps, are stamps that have never been used or canceled. The highest grade of mint stamps is referred to as “never-hinged.” These stamps have pristine, undamaged gum that covers the entire back of the stamp. The full original gum adds value and is a key indicator of the stamp’s excellent condition.
Hinge remnants, on the other hand, are traces of previously used hinges that can impact a stamp’s condition. Hinges were often used to attach stamps to albums, but their removal can leave behind residue or damage to the gum. Detecting and evaluating hinge remnants require expertise and a keen eye for detail.
“Expert collectors can identify different gum conditions and know their impact on stamp quality.”
Experienced collectors have honed their skills in assessing different gum conditions. They can distinguish between various gum varieties, such as cracked gum, glazed gum, or excess gum. These variations can provide valuable insights into the production process and printing runs of stamps.
Mint stamps with their original gum intact are generally more valuable and desirable among collectors compared to stamps without gum or with altered gum. The backing gum plays a significant role in preserving the integrity and value of a stamp, making it an essential consideration for those passionate about stamp collecting.
Preservation and Skill in Gum Removal
Part of maintaining gum condition in stamp collecting involves preserving the gum’s integrity while removing any residue or debris. The removal process requires skill and caution to prevent damage to the gum itself.
Collectors strive to master the art of gum removal, delicately cleaning the gum without compromising its quality. The goal is to eliminate any remnants of previous hinges or debris while maintaining the original appearance and condition of the gum. This meticulous process ensures that stamps maintain their value and attractiveness to fellow collectors.
Gum Alteration and Regumming
Gum alteration, including regumming, is a practice that can deceive collectors by hiding defects or repairs on stamps. Regumming is often done to conceal faults such as tears, thins, or repairs. Regummed stamps may have additional gum added or removed during the process, which can alter the appearance of the gum. The use of surgical and dental tools to remove old hinge remnants and redistribute the original gum is a common practice.
Detecting regummed stamps can be challenging, but careful examination and comparison with control copies can help identify alterations. Collectors should be cautious when purchasing stamps with redistributed or regummed gum and seek expert opinion if needed. Thin spots, caused by improperly removing gum or adding additional gum, are one of the telltale signs of regumming. Thin spots can weaken the paper and affect the overall condition of the stamp.
Preserving the original state of a stamp is crucial for maintaining its value and historical integrity. Collectors should remain vigilant when it comes to gum alteration and regummed stamps, as they can significantly impact a stamp’s desirability and authenticity. Seeking guidance from experienced philatelists or professional authenticators can help collectors make informed decisions and avoid falling prey to deceptive practices.
