STAMP GLOSSARY

(March 2024)

Stamp collectors may have a significant property loss exposure that is not adequately handled by standard, unendorsed homeowner policies.

Related Article: Stamp and Coin Collections Form

Stamp collecting is still among one of this country’s most popular hobbies, even as more correspondence is accomplished electronically. It is up to the insurance professional to make sure that he or she meets the needs of customers who happen to be stamp enthusiasts. A huge step toward this goal is to understand the basics of the hobby, particularly its terms. For your reference, here is a list of more common words found in the world of stamp collecting.

Note: This list was compiled by our editorial staff after independently researching a variety of sources on the topic of stamps and related materials.

- A -

A A M C–American Air Mail Catalog.

A A M S–American Air Mail Society.

A A P E–See American Association of Philatelic Exhibitors.

abnormal–Refers to stamps produced by De La Rue for Great Britain, 1862-80, from plates which were not put into production.

accessories–Refers to items used by most stamp collectors such as albums, catalogs, hinges, magnifiers, mounts, perforation gauges, tongs, etc.

accumulation–A large collection of stamps that has not been arranged in any particular order.

acknowledgement of receipt stamp–A stamp issued to pay the fee for post office notification that a mail piece was delivered.

acid–Refers to paper having a high enough acidic level to, eventually, affect stamps and covers attached to the page.

adhesive–Usually refers to the sticky substance that is used to fix a stamp to an envelope. It may be either pressure-sensitive or activated by water.

admirals–A nickname for three British Commonwealth definitive series of stamps which feature King George V of Great Britain in naval uniform.

advertisement pane–A booklet or sheet of stamps with one or more stamp spaces used for a commercial ad.

advertising cover–Stamps created by a business expressly to promote a company, product, or service.

A E F–American Expeditionary Forces (WWI term).

aerogram, aerogramme–A postage-paid air letter sheet with gummed flaps that is written on and then folded to form an envelope.

aerophilately–Branch of collecting that deals with airmail stamps and covers and their usage.

A F D C S–American First Day Cover Society.

agency–An organization authorized to publicize or sell new issues of stamps on behalf of a stamp-issuing entity.

air labels–See etiquettes.

airmail–The carriage of mail by air. The first regular airmail service began in 1870 in Paris when mail was delivered by hot air balloons.

airmail border–Red and blue markings on border cover indicating airmail service.

albino–A rare error in stamp production where an un-inked impression is made by a printing plate.

album–A book designed to hold stamps or covers.

album weeds–Early series of books on forged stamps by Rev. R. Brisco Earee. Also, a general and derogatory reference to forged or fake items.

alteration–Attempt to change a stamp's identity by adding or removing a design or perforation or by changing the characteristics of the paper.

ambulance bag–See body bag.

ambulante–In some countries, this word denotes cancellations by a mobile post office.

American Association of Philatelic Exhibitors–A global association of stamp enthusiasts that sponsors regular stamp expositions and exhibit competitions in order to promote the stamp collecting hobby.

aniline ink–Water-soluble ink with a dye base that runs when wet.

annule–French word for cancelled.

A P–American Philatelist, publication of the American Philatelic Society.

American Topical Association–An organization of collectors that specializes in items related by topics and themes.

A P O–Army Post Office used by U.S. military personnel stationed abroad.

approvals–Priced selections of stamps or covers sent to collectors by mail. The collector keeps the items he chooses and the remaining material (along with a payment) is returned to the approval dealer.

arrow–Arrow-like markings used as guides for cutting sheets of stamps.

arms types–Stamp bearing Coats of Arms or heraldic devices.

as is–A term included in transactions to indicate that an item or lot is sold without guarantee or return privilege, usually used for stamps that are damaged or which are suspect.

ASCAT–Association of Stamp Catalog Publishers.

ASDA–American Stamp Dealers Association.

ATA–American Topical Association.

ATLC–Air Transport Label Catalog.

ATM Stamps–Stamps that are created in a format to permit their sale and distribution via automated teller and similar machinery.

auction abbreviations–Terms used in auctions: box with X =cover, circle with dot =used; four small squares =block; square =piece or part of cover; star =mint.

authentication mark–A marking, such as initials, placed on the reverse of a stamp examined and certified to be genuine by an expert. Such markings do not detract from the value of the stamps when they represent the endorsement of recognized authorities.

auxiliary marking–Any extraneous printing stamped on an envelope that is not part of a regular postmark, such as "return to sender" of "addressee not found."

average (AVG)–Average condition for a stamp; refers to the lowest collectible grade.

- B -

b stamps–Stamps issued in 1981 without a printed denomination (but which were assigned a value of 18 cents).

baby zepp–Stamp that debuted at the ’33 Chicago World’s Fair depicting a Graf Zeppelin air ship.

back of the book–Refers to information appearing in the back of specialized stamp catalogs.

backprint–Various pieces of information printed on the reverse of a stamp (usually advertising).

backstamp–Postmark applied to back of incoming mail to show date and time of receipt at the receiving post office.

balloon mail–Mail carried by balloon in Paris during the War of 1870. Such mail was called "Balloon Monte."

balloon monte–See balloon mail.

bank mixture–Assorted stamps collected from the incoming mail of financial institutions.

bantams–Nickname of the South African definitive series of 1942-43.

bars–Printed, vertical defacement that is placed on a stamp in order to overprint new, different information or design such as a different denomination.

batonne–Woven or laid paper with watermark-like lines that are intended to facilitate handwriting.

beer stamps–Issued between 1866 and 1951 as revenue stamps to collect federal beer taxes.

B E P–Bureau of Engraving and Printing, Washington, D.C., where all U.S. currency and almost all U.S. postage stamps have been produced since 1894.

BIA–See Bureau Issues Association.

bicolor–Printed in two colors.

bicycle mail–Rare stamps that were especially made for instances when postal deliveries were performed by bicycles (in U.S., late 1800s).

bilingual–Stamps (such as Canadian) Inscribed in two languages.

bipartite stamps–Stamps printed in two parts with one part meant to be used as postage and the other as a receipt of mailing.

bisect–A stamp cut or perforated into two parts, each half representing half the face value of the original stamp.

bishop mark–The earliest postmark, introduced by Henry Bishop in England circa 1661.

Black heritage series–Set of stamps that commemorate the historical contributions of various Black Americans.

black jack–The nickname of the United States 2 cent black Andrew Jackson stamp.

bleached–Use of a chemical agent to lighten or remove a discoloration or foreign substance from a stamp.

bleeding–Refers either to ink that runs when wet or to print that overlaps onto the margin or next attached stamp.

blind perforation–Perforation holes that have been lightly impressed into the stamps, leaving the paper intact.

block–A unit of four or more uncut stamps (at least two stamps wide and two stamps high).

blued paper–The paper of a stamp which has a pale blue tinge as a result of the manufacturing process.

Board Of Governors–Supervising body of the U.S. Postal Service which elects the Postmaster General.

boardwalk margins–Stamps with wide margins. Also called Jumbo Stamps.

boating stamps–Stamps that were once used to certify applications for boats with a given horsepower.

BOB–See back of the book.

body bag–Plastic bags used by the U.S. Post Office to deliver damaged mail.

bogus–Fake labels created for sale to collectors, such as "stamps" for imaginary countries.

booklet–One or more small blocks (known as booklet panes) attached between thin card covers.

bourse–A meeting of stamp collectors and/or dealers, where stamps and covers are sold or exchanged.

B P O–British Post Office.

brandings–Stamps which an organization perforates through the face in some manner to discourage unauthorized use by their employees.

broken set–See short set.

bullseye–Any stamp with a cancellation mark that is centered on the stamp’s design.

Bureau Issues Association–This organization is currently known as the United States Stamp Society.

burelage–A design of intricate lines used in printing to prevent counterfeiting or reuse of a stamp.

burele–See burelage.

burnish–Process of removing entries from an engraved printing plate.

buy prices–What a dealer is willing to pay for stamps or other collectibles.

buyer's premium–Auction term for percentage charged to buyer.

- C -

cachet–A stamped or printed impression on an envelope which describes the event for which the envelope was mailed such as first days of issue, exhibitions or aviation or naval events, etc.
cachet maker–Any person who designs and produces cachets.
CAM–See contract air mail.

cancel–Defacing a stamp to prevent its reuse.
cancel to order (CTO)–Stamps cancelled by postal authorities without having been used for postage.
cancellation–See cancel.
cape triangles–Nick Nickname for stamps issued between 18953-64 in the Cape of Good Hope. They were triangular.
capped numerals–Cap-like flaws on the "2" on the U.S. 2 cent Washington issue of 1890-3.
captions–All inscriptions featured on a stamp.
caritas–Charity stamps.
carrier stamps–Stamps used to fund the cost of mail delivery from a post office to an individual addressee (prior to the availability of widespread, local delivery).

catalog–A comprehensive listing of postage and revenue stamps which includes current price valuations and illustrations.

catalog number–Number assigned by a catalog publisher to each individual stamp of a country.
catalog value–Stamp values established by reputable catalogs, used as pricing guides.
catapult mail–An obsolete form of transatlantic mail delivery.

C C–Cut cancel; corner card; or Crown Colonies.

C C C–Collectors Club of Chicago.
C C N Y–Collectors Club of New York.
C D S–Circular Date Stamp or postmark.
censored mail–A cover with a hand-stamp or label indicating that the contents have been opened and censored.
centering–Location of the stamp design on the piece of paper it is printed on. If it is exactly in the center, it is called a "perfectly centered stamp."
center line block–A block of stamps from the actual center of a sheet of stamps. On early U.S. issues, the center block is considered the most valuable block on a sheet of stamps.
centennial stamps–Any stamp issued to commemorate an event’s hundredth anniversary.

ceremony program–Card or folder detailing program at first day or stamp unveiling ceremony.
certificate–If issued by acknowledged experts, a stamp’s evidence of authenticity and condition.
chad–The bits of paper that are punched out in order to create perforations.
chalky paper–Stamp paper which has a coating of chalk or clay on its surface.
champion of champions–An annual competition of grand award winners from APS national stamp shows.
changeling–An ink color change caused (typically) by exposure to light, fumes or heat.

charity labels–Non-postal stamp facsimiles used by charities as a fund-raiser.
check letters–Letters placed in the corners of stamps in order to identify their sheet position and to act as an anti-forgery device.

Chicago perfs–First perforated stamps produced by machine (performed by a Chicago businessman).

chop–Japanese characters overprinted on stamps of territories occupied by Japanese troops during WWII.
Christmas seals–See charity labels.
Christmas stamps–Postage stamps issued for use on mail during Christmas season.
cigarette tubes stamps–Stamps used to collect tax revenues for cigarette paper.

cinderella–Any collectible, non-postage stamp item such as a revenue stamp or charity seal.

circuit book–Book with stamps or covers offered for sale.
Citizens Stamp Advisory Committee (CSAC)–Persons appointed by the U.S. Postmaster General to review suggestions for stamp subjects.
classic–A stamp that is highly desirable because of its beauty, rarity, or age.

cleaning–Removal of foreign substances from a stamp.
cliche–The final result of the process of applying a design into metal.
click stamp–Postage imprint produced by Pitney Bowes machines.
club covers–Covers produced by stamp clubs.
coarse perforation–Large holes, widely and irregularly spaced.
coated paper–Paper with a slick, hard surface.
coil line pair–Pair of stamps showing a colored line caused by a gap where the curved printing plate is joined.
coils–Stamps produced in rolls of 100-500 stamps for use in various postal machines.

collage cachet–A cohesive cachet made by gluing various items together.
collateral material–Background information that accompanies a stamp display.
college stamps–Stamps issued by certain colleges for inter-college messenger services.
collodian stains–Paper stains caused by collodian, a chemical used for rejoining perforations.

color–A variable that may cause stamps technically having the same color to look different.

color proof–See trial color proofs.

colored cancellation–A cancel mark in any color but black.
color error–A stamp that is missing a color or which has been printed with the wrong color.

color missing–When a stamp color that is applied to a press does not appear on a printing.

color proofs–See trial color proofs.

color shift–Misalignment of colors within a multicolored issue.
columbians–Stamps first issued in 1893 to commemorate Christopher Columbus.

column–A single-stamp width multiple of stamps.
comb perforation–A comb-shaped pattern of pins that perforates three sides of a stamp with a single machine stroke.
combination cover–An envelope or card affixed with one or more stamps of the same theme.
commatology–Obsolete term for postmark collecting.

commemorative panel–A commemorative stamp produced on a panel that includes background and other information related to that stamp’s subject.

commemorative stamp (comm)–Stamps issued to honor some person, anniversary, or historical event.
commercial cover–Refers to a nonphilatelic cover.
composite proof–A printer's proof showing two or more different designs.
composite sheet–Stamp sheets consisting of different values, types, or designs.
compound perforations–When there are two different sizes of perforations.

computer-generated postage–The use of Internet connections and laser printers to print postage.
computer vended–Value of the stamp printed by a computer as the stamp is issued.
condition–The quality of a stamp regarding color, centering, cancellation, and gum, if mint, all go into making up the term "condition." Typical condition descriptions are Superb, Very Fine, Fine, Good, Average, or Poor.

contingency stamp–Stamp printed at time of a rate change when current issues may not meet postal needs.
contract air mail–Air mail delivered over authorized routes by private contractors.

control marks–Marks placed on stamp or in margin by postal authorities for accounting purposes.
copyright–Standard inscription placed in the sheet margin protecting design.
cordials–Tax stamps once used on bottles or cases of cordials (wines).
cork cancels–Cancelers made from corks.
corner blocks–A block of stamps taken out of the corner of a sheet or pane.
corner card–Name and address of the envelope user, usually placed in the upper left hand corner.
correos/correios–Respectively, Spanish and Portuguese for Posts.
correspondence art–Labels designed to simulate stamps.
cotton fiber–A strong, stable fiber suitable for archival paper use.

counterfeit–Any stamp, cover, or cancellation created for the purposes of deception.

cover–A postally used envelope or one that has been cancelled as a souvenir.
CPL–Complete.
cracked plate–Stamp showing evidence that the plate from which it was printed was cracked.
crash cover–A cover saved from the wreck of a plane, train or other vehicle with a postal marking explaining the damaged condition.
creases–A fold mark remaining on a postal piece.
CSAC–Citizens Stamp Advisory Committee.
CSDA–Canadian Stamp Dealers Association.
current–Postal items that are presently available at the post office.
cut-outs–Embossed stamps from postal stationery that are cut out.
cut square–Imperforate stamps cut from postal stationery with the corners of the original paper left intact.
CV–Catalog value.
CVP–Computer Vended Postage.

cylinder–A printing plate used on a modern rotary printing press.

cylinder number–The number in the margins of a sheet of stamps that identifies the cylinder which has been used in the production process.

- D -

damaged mail–Mail damaged in transit that may have received a special marking applied by the postal administration.
dandy roll–A wire roller used to imprint watermarks onto paper pulp.
dated–A U.S. precancelled stamp that includes a date in the precancellation.
dated corners–French area stamps which have a date printed in the margin.
DCDS–Double Circular Date Stamp.
De La Rue–A famous British stamp printing firm.
deacidification–A chemical process to neutralize the acid content of paper.

dead country–A country that no longer issues stamps.
dead letter–Undeliverable mail.

Dead Letter Office (DLO)–Area of post office operation (branch) where undeliverable mail is stored.

decimal denomination–A stamp with a denomination that includes a fractional value (i.e., 5.2 cents).

decoder–A device, sold by the USPS, for finding hidden messages as part of the design on recent U.S. stamps.

decorative banner–Printed decoration on the margin of a commemorative pane.

defective stamp–A stamp with one or more major faults such as a piece of the stamp is missing.

definitive–Stamp issued in a large indefinite quantity and for an indefinite period and which, usually, does not feature a specific time-dated event.

deltiology–Refers to hobby of collecting picture postcards.

demonitized–Stamps that, by government proclamation, are no longer valid for postage.

denomination–A stamp’s face value.

departmental stamp–See official stamp.

design–The printed portion of a stamp, as opposed to the surrounding, blank margin.

diagonal half–One-half of a stamp that is bisected diagonally (and each part having one half of the original stamp’s postage value).

die–The original engraving of a stamp design, usually recess-engraved in reverse on a small flat piece of soft steel.

die cut–A form of separation usually used on self-adhesive stamps.

die flaw–An imperfection on an engraving plate that is transferred to printed stamps.

directory markings–Postal indication of failed delivery attempt, stating the reason for failure.

disinfected mail–Mail treated to rid the materials of contagious elements.

distilled spirits revenue stamps–Stamps used to document that the taxes due on a shipment of liquor has been paid.

docketing–Notations a recipient has made on a stamp cover and that information assists in determining the cover’s issue date.

doctor blade–A metal blade used to clean surplus ink from the cylinder or plate.

documentary stamps–Non-postage stamps used to certify that fees have been paid on a variety of legal documents such as contracts.

double impression–A form of freak where a stamp image is doubled on a single stamp.

double perforation–A stamp that has an extra set of perforations (a form of stamp freak).

double printing–A stamp that has passed through a printing process twice.

double transfer–A stamp printed in error with more than a single design imprint.

duck stamp–Annually-issued permits that are used to support the U.S. waterfowl program.

dummy stamp–Officially produced imitation stamp used for training or testing purposes.

duplex cancel–A two-part postal marking consisting of a canceler and a postmark. The canceler voids the stamp so it cannot be reused.

duplicate–An additional copy of a stamp that one already has in a collection.

dumb cancellation–A postmark without a date or place of cancellation.

duty plate–The plate that holds the variable design component of a two-part design. Also see key plate.

- E -

earliest known use–The cover or piece that documents the earliest date on which a stamp or postal stationery item is known to be used.

early impression–A stamp printed during the beginning run of a press that usually has a very sharp image.

EFO–See errors, freaks, and oddities.

EKU–See earliest known use.

elusives–Generic reference to collectible items that are difficult to locate.

embossing–The process of giving relief (raised impression) to paper by pressing it with a die.

encased postage stamp–A stamp inserted into a small, transparent, coin-size case originally used as legal coins during coin shortages.

endwise coil–A stamp coil with perforations at the top and bottom rather than on the side.

engraver–Skilled person who engraves a die.

engraving–See intaglio.

entire–An intact piece of postal stationery, in contrast to a cutout of the imprinted stamp.

ephemera–Temporary printed materials that are not intended for storage or archiving.

error–A major mistake in the production of a stamp or postal stationery item such as imperforates, missing or incorrect colors, and design image errors.

Errors, freaks, and oddities–A term that refers to any stamp materials that contain unintended image or process features.

essay–The artwork of a proposed design for a stamp.

etiquette–A gummed label applied to an envelope to designate a specific mail service.

examiner’s mark–A mark indicating examination by censors.
exchange office–Any postal office that handles transferal of mail between the U.S. and other countries.

expertization–The examination of a stamp or cover by an acknowledged expert to determine if it is genuine.

exploded–A stamp booklet that has been separated into its various components, usually for purposes of display.

express mail–Mail that is delivered on an expedited basis for an additional fee.

- F -

F–Auction term for "Fine" quality.

FU–See fine used.

face–The front of a stamp; the side bearing the design.

face scrape–A stamp with scraping on its front side which mars its design.

face value–The value of a stamp as inscribed on its face.

facing slip–A piece of paper that is placed on the top of a mail bundle during sorting.

facsimile–An acknowledged reproduction of a genuine stamp or cover.

fake–A stamp, cover or cancel that has been altered or concocted to appeal to a collector.

false franking–Using a stamp that is inadequate to cover the actual delivery cost–usually occurs in bulk mailings.

fancy cancel–Any pictorial or unusual obliterating postmark.

fantail margin–Missing marginal perforations from edge of stamp to the end of the sheet.
fast colors–Fade-resistant inks.

fermented fruit juice stamps–Revenue stamps that document the fees paid on shipments of fermented fruit juice.

field post office (FPO)–A military post office operating in the field, either on land or at sea.

find–A new discovery, typically of unknown stamps or covers.

fine used–A stamp cancelled gently with a circular date stamp.

first-day cover (FDC)–A cover bearing a stamp that includes a cancellation showing the date of its official first day of issue.

first day of issue (FDI)–The day on which a stamp is first placed on sale.
fiscal–A revenue stamp or similar label use to show proof that a tax has been paid.

FL–Abbreviation, folded letter.

flag cancel–Any postage cancellation design that has a flag shape.

flappers–Typically appearing on British stamps, refers to a wider than normal, side stamp border.

flat plate press–A stamp printing press that uses flat (as opposed to curved) printing plates.

flaw–A defect in a plate that appears as an identifiable variety in the stamp design.

fleet post office–See field post office (FPO).

flown cover–Stamps that bear evidence that they were transported as air mail.

flyspecks–Design or error items that need to be magnified in order to be clearly seen.

foldover–Accidental fold made during stamp production.
forerunner–1. A stamp or postal stationery item used at a location before regular stamps are available (issued). 2. Describes an earlier stamp which had an influence on the design or purpose of its successor.

forever stamp–A non-denominated stamp that is always valid for use on current first-class letter delivery.

forgery–A completely fraudulent reproduction of a postage stamp meant either to defraud postal authorities or collectors.

fourth class stamps–See parcel post stamps.

foxing–Tan or brown appearing on stamps or covers.

fractional use–Valid use of a portion (usually half) of a postage stamp (at one-half the original stamp’s value).

frama–Another name used for an automatic stamp, coming from the Swiss company which produced such stamps.

frame–The outer portion of a stamp design, often consisting of a line or a group of panels.

frank–An indication on a cover that postage is prepaid (partially or wholly) or that the letter is to be carried free of postage.

freak–A design irregularity, such as a color shift, streak, smear, or double print.

free frank–Mail that is delivered without postage as part of special authorization.

front–The front of a cover with most or all of the back and side panels torn away or removed.

fugitive inks–Printing inks used to produce stamps that easily fade or dissolve. Such inks discourage forgery or stamp re-use.

- G -

G–Auction term, "good" condition.

GD–Gum Disturbance.

general collection–A collection of the entire world, not of a particular country or topic.

general issue–Stamps issued for ordinary postal use.

ghost tagging–A faint image impression accompanying the normal inked impression.

glassine–A thin, semitransparent paper that is moderately resistant to exposure and is used

for temporary stamp storage.

goldbeater's skin–A thin, translucent paper once used to print stamps.

GPO–General Post Office.

grade–A judgment of a stamp’s level or range of imperfections.

granite paper–Paper containing small colored fibers that discourages forgery.

gravure–See photogravure.

grill–A pattern of parallel lines (or dots at the points where lines would cross) forming a grid. They were originally used as a method to increase ink absorption of cancellation stamps so illegal re-use would be minimized.

groundwork–Refers to a distinctive background on a stamp design.

guillotine perforation–Single cut line from a machine resembling a guillotine.

gum–See adhesive.

gutter–The selvage separating panes on a sheet of stamps. The gutter is usually discarded during processing.

gutter snipe–Miscut of the pane leaving the entire gutter and occasionally a portion of the adjoining stamp.

- H -

hair lines–Fine scratches from a printing plate.

handmade cover–Folding a sheet of paper to create an envelope.

handstamp–Cancellation or overprint applied manually to a cover or stamp.

hatching–Close, fine lines for shading a stamp design.

head plate–See key plate.

herringbone cancels–Any stamp cancel device that cuts a stamp so it can’t be removed intact.

highway post office (HPO) –Portable mail-sorting equipment for mail in transit on highways.

hinge–Piece of glassine or parchment paper used for mounting stamps on album pages.

historical cover–Postmarked and cacheted for a historical event.

HS–Hand stamp.

hub–A postmark’s circular part that includes place, date, zip code, etc.

humidor–See sweat box.

- I -

idem–Means that a later stamp issue has the same characteristics as a previous issue.

illustrated covers–A cachet which has words and an illustration.

imperforate–An absence of perforations or rouletting between a pane’s individual stamps.

impression–Any printing that is embossed or stamped.

imprimatur–The first sheets of stamps produced from an approved plate.

imprint block–A block from part of a sheet where the printer's name or imprint appears on the margin.

inclusions–Substances included while making paper used in stamp production.

india paper–A thin, tough opaque printing paper typically used for striking die proofs.

indicium–The imprint made by a postage meter or found on postal stationery.

inflation issue–Stamps created and distributed to handle rapid postal rate increases during inflationary economic periods.

inland mail stamps–Stamps intended specifically for domestic use.
inscription–Any letters, words and numbers appearing in a stamp’s design.

intaglio–Italian for "in recess.'' The stamp’s image is produced by the recessed portion of a printing plate.

international reply coupon–A postal coupon for use by a foreign mail recipient for return postage.

interleaves–Tissue used between stamp album pages to prevent stamp contact.

interrupted mail–Mail that was not properly delivered because of an event such as an accident, war, or a catastrophe.

invert–Refers to any part of a design that is inverted in relation to the remaining design.

inverted jenny–Nickname for a 1918 air mail issue where the image of an airplane was printed upside down.

IRC–See international reply coupon.

irradiated mail–See disinfected mail.

issue–Stamp release.

- J -

JPA–Junior Philatelists of America.
jenny–See inverted jenny.

jet press–Another term for offset printing of stamps.

joint issue–When a similar stamp design is issued by more than one country on the same day.

joint line–A line formed by ink that accumulates between two printing plates.

journal stamps–Stamps used specifically for prepaying postage on journals, newspapers, magazines, etc.
jubilee–Stamp issues that feature special (usually 25- year increment) anniversaries.

Judenpost–Ghetto stamps issued for the use of Jews interned in concentration camps during WWII.

jumbo stamps–See boardwalk margins.

junk mail–Bulk rate mail.

junk mail stamps–Stamps used in bulk rate mailings.

jury–Judges at a stamp show.

- K -

Kansas City roulettes–One- and two-cent postage stamps that, in 1914 and 1915, were perforated by improvised means by the Kansas City postmaster.

key plate–The plate that holds the fixed, basic design component of a two-part design. Also see duty plate.

keytype–A basic stamp design used for the issues of two or more postal authorities which include captions of respective countries, denominations, etc.

killer–Any obliterating postmark that’s used to cancel a stamp.
killer bars–Horizontal lines used for stamp cancellations.
kiloware–Collections (often sold by the kilo) made up of a variety of postally used stamps that are mounted on envelope corner paper.

- L -

L, LT–Left (side).

label–Any stamp-like adhesive that is neither a postage nor a revenue stamp.

laid paper–See batonne.

large holes–Perforation holes that are larger than other perforations–facilitates easier stamp separation.

last day cancellation–Refers either to the last day of a postmark’s use or the cancel made on the last day of a post office’s operation.

late fee stamps–Postage stamps that document an additional fee paid for delivering mail outside of regular postal hours.

latest known use–The cover or piece that documents the latest date on which a stamp or postal stationery item is known to have been used.

laundry tags–Two-sided address cards used on boxes for shipping laundry to be cleaned and returned.

leader strip–The unprinted beginning of a coil strip.
legends of Hollywood–Series of commemorative stamps featuring Hollywood luminaries.

letterpress–Prints made directly from an inked plate having a raised surface.

LH–Auction term for Lightly Hinged, to denote slight disturbance of gum on back of stamp.
line block–A block of stamps with either a horizontal or vertical printed guideline running between the rows (and columns) of stamps.

line engraving–See intaglio.

line pair–A pair of coil stamps with a printed line between them.

liner–Refers to the coated paper backing that accompanies self-adhesive stamps.

linerless–Self-adhesive coil stamps that dispenses like tape rolls.

lithography–Flat surface printing with a design area that is ink-receptive. The area that is not to print is ink-repellant.

LKU–See latest known use.

local precancels–Stamps cancelled by a local post office.

locals–Stamps produced by either public or private sources and are only valid within a limited area.

lozenges–Bi-color air mail postal stationery borders.

lunar new year series–1992 issue of stamps that honored the Chinese New Year.

- M -

machine cancels–Stamps cancelled by machinery rather than hand stamps.

mail early block–U.S. marking block with the selvage bearing the inscription "Mail Early.''

major varieties–Stamp designs that vary substantially from the initial stamp issue.

makeshift booklets–U.S. stamp booklets packaged in cardboard covers and used in vending machines.

manuscript–Term describing covers or stamps with handwritten postal markings.
marcophily–Refers to hobby of collecting postmarks.

margin–The unprinted border area around the stamp design or the stamp sheet.

margin copy–A stamp with evidence that it was part of the margin column of a stamp sheet.

maximaphily–Refers to hobby of collecting maximum cards.

maximum card–A picture postcard that includes a stamp with a cancellation mark, ideally appearing together in harmony.

MB–Auction term for minimum bid.

MD–Minor defects.

meter–The device that creates meter stamps.

meter impressions–The designs and/or words printed by postal meters.

microperfs–Miniature perforations.

microprinting–Extremely small captions added as a security measure to the designs of certain U.S. stamps.

military stamps–Stamps created and used by military services.

miniature sheet–A small stamp sheet that is usually created as a souvenir rather than for postal service.

mint–A stamp which is in the same state as originally issued by a post office.

mint sheet–An entire sheet of stamps that are in the same state as originally issued by a post office.

mirror image–An offset negative or reverse impression.

miscut–A stamp with a trimming error.

mission mixture–The lowest grade of stamp mixture, containing unsorted but primarily common stamps on paper, as purchased from missions or other institutions.

mixed postage–A cover containing stamps from two or more stamp-issuing entities.

mixture–A large group of stamps generally containing duplicates.

mobile post office (MPO)–Portable mail-handling equipment and personnel operating from any viable form or transportation.

monochrome–A stamp design consisting of a single color.

mourning cover–A black border surrounds the cover.
mourning stamp–A stamp issued to mark the death of a president or other VIP.

mount–Clear acetate holders with adhesive and used for mounting stamps or covers to album or exhibit pages.

MUH–Stands for mint unhinged.

multicolor–More than two colors.

multiple–An intact unit of at least two, but less than a full pane of stamps.

mute cancel–See dumb cancellation.

- N -

narcotic tax stamps–Revenue stamps used to indicate payment of federal tax on cocoa leaves, opium, and derivatives (used between 1917 and 1971).

national defense issue–A 1940 issue stamp set that promoted national defense.

National Postal Museum–A Smithsonian museum located in Washington D.C. which contains the national postage stamp collection.

native paper–Crude, locally-produced, handmade paper.

negative postmark–A postmark with its words formed by the un-inked portion of its design.

never hinged (NH)–A stamp without hinge marks.

new issue service–Refers to a service that automatically supplies subscribers with new stamp issues of a given country, area, or topic.

newspaper stamp–Stamps used for mailing newspapers and various journals.

NH–See never hinged.

nibbed perf–An improperly torn perforation.

nixie–Same as dead letter.

non denominated–A stamp without an indication of its face value.

NSDA–National Stamp Dealers Association.

- O -

obliteration–See killer.

obsolete–A stamp which may be used for postage but is unavailable from any post office.

occupation issue–An issue released and used in a foreign-occupied territory.

oddity–Any collectible stamp item that can’t properly fit into an existing stamp error category.

off-center–A non-centered stamp design.

off paper–A stamp that has been removed from an envelope.

offices abroad–When one nation operates a post office in another country.

official–Stamp or stationery issued solely for the use of (civilian) government personnel.

official issues–See carrier stamps.

official reprint–Stamps reprinted at a later date by the original issuing entity and using the original plates.
off paper–Describes a stamp soaked off from paper.
offset–Where an inked image is first transferred onto a plate or a sheet and then the image is applied to paper.

OHMS–Stands for On His (or Her) Majesty's Service.

omnibus issue–A stamp issue using a common theme that is released by several postal entities.

on cover–A stamp attached to the entire, original envelope.

on piece–A stamp including a portion of the original envelope which shows the cancel mark.

ordinary usage–Indicates the use of the correct rate of postage.

original gum (OG)–The adhesive coating on a mint or unused stamp or envelope flap.

overprint (OPT or OVPT)–A print made over a stamp’s original completed design.

oxidation–Darkening of the ink on certain stamps caused by exposure.

- P -

P–Auction term, poor quality.
packet–A presorted selection of stamps that does NOT contain duplicates.

pacquebot–A cancel mark that is applied to mail that is delivered by sea.

pair–Two connected stamps.

pane–The unit into which a full press sheet is divided before its sale.

pane–Stamps as sold by the Post Office, typically 50 stamps.

par avion–French for "By Air,'' and refers to airmail.

parcel post stamps–Stamps created specifically for paying parcel post fees.

part-perforate–A stamp with all perforations missing on one or more sides.

paste-up–The ends of rolls of coiled stamps joined together with glue or tape.

pelure paper–A thin, woven, translucent paper that allows a stamp’s design to appear through its opposite side.

pen canceled–Stamps canceled with an ink pen or marker pen.

penny black–The world’s first postage stamp. This one-penny stamp was issued by Great Britain in May 1840.

perfecting–Printing words or designs on the reverse side of a stamp.

perfins–See branding.

perforation–The punching out of holes between stamps to ease separation.

perforation gauge–A device for calculating the number of perforations contained by a stamp.

permit–Franking by the imprint of a number and additional information that identifies a mailer's prepaid postage account.

phantasy–A bogus stamp with no postal value.
phantom philately–Hobby of collecting bogus stamps.

philatelic cover–See postally used.

philatelic numismatic combination (PNC)–A combination of a cover, coin, and a related stamp.

philately–The collection and study of postage stamps, postmarks, stamped envelopes, etc.

phosphor bands–A narrow line of fluorescent substance across the face of a stamp. Stamps can have one or two bands and the position may vary.

phosphor stamps–Stamps which have been coated with a fluorescent substance used for detection in the mail sorting system.

photogravure–A special type of recessed printing involving designs being etched onto plates.

pictorial–Stamp bearing a picture, but not a coat of arms or portrait.

plate–The unit on a press used to produce stamps.

plate block (PB)–A block of stamps from the corner or side of a pane.

plate number–Numerals or an alphanumeric combination that identifies the printing plate used to print postage stamp.

plate number block–Same as plate block, but it includes the number(s) of the plate(s) used to print the sheet.

plating–Reconstructing a pane by collecting units of stamps representing various positions.

plebiscite issue–A stamp issue promoting a popular (plebiscite) vote.

PM–Postmaster, postmistress.
PMG–Postmaster General.

postage due–Stamp or marking that indicate an underpayment of postage by the sender.

postal card–A government-produced postcard which includes a pre-paid postage imprint in its upper-right corner.

postal history–The study post-related history, such as rates, markings, processes, etc.

postal stationery–Forms, including cards, which include imprinted (rather than adhesive) stamps.

postally used–A stamp or cover that has actually been used to carry a personal or business communication.

postcard–A card, usually with a picture on one side and a space for a written message on the other, which requires a postage stamp.

postmark–Any official postal marking, typically referring to cancellations.

precancel–Stamp with a special overprint cancellation allowing it to bypass normal canceling.

press sheet–A complete unit of stamps as printed (not separated into panes).

prestige booklet–A booklet of stamps issued by the postal authorities that commemorates some event or particular subject.

printer's waste–Misprinted, mis perforated or mis gummed stamps commonly created during stamp production.

processing–Steps that finish a printed stamp sheet such as perforation, trimming, division into panes, and packaging.

proofs–Trial impressions from a die or printing plate before actual stamp production. Proofs are made to examine a die or plate for defects or to compare the results of using different inks.

provisional–A postage stamp issued for temporary use to meet postal demands until new or regular stocks of stamps can be obtained.

- Q -

quadrilles–Paper with intersecting lines that form squares or rectangles.

quadripartition–A complete design consisting of either a block or strip of four stamps.

quantity mail–Mail that is presorted and bundled by a mailer in order to qualify for a lower postal rate.

- R -

R–Reprint
railroad cancel–Postmark applied to mail in a railway mail car.
RE–Reinforced.
rebuts–Postal instructions to return the piece of mail.
recess printed–See intaglio.

recuts–Stamps printed from a plate design that was manually altered or repaired.

redrawn–Modifying a detail in an issued stamp.
reduced–A postal piece that has been cut to eliminate uneven edges.
reg–Registered.

regional commemoratives–New stamp issues distributed only in a region where they are expected to be attractive.

registered mail–Mail with a numbered receipt that is signed by each postal employee as it is handled during processing.
registration stamps–Stamps issued specifically for paying registration fees.

regular issue–See definitive.

regummed–A stamp with an adhesive backing applied by an unofficial source.

reissue–An official reprinting of a previously discontinued stamp.

rejoined perforations–Perforations that have been reattached, usually via adhesives.

release date–Formal date when a postal authority makes an item available for purchase.

reperforated–Stamp that has been perforated again to fool a collector.
reply postcards–A pair of joined postcards, one for original message and other for reply.
reprint–Stamps printed (from original plates) after the issue became obsolete or demonetized.
retour–See rebut.
revenue stamp–See fiscals.

RFD–See rural free delivery.

ribbed–Paper which shows parallel ridges on at least one side of a stamp.
ribbed frame–Varieties of encased postage with fine parallel lines on the silver side of the metal case.
rotary press stamps–Stamps printed from curved plates.

rough perforation–Refers to jagged holes.
rouletting–The cutting of paper between stamps in order to make the separation of the stamps easier.

RPO–Railway Post Office.
RRT–Refers to right side.

RTS–Return to sender.
rubber stamp address–Address applied to a cover using a rubber stamp.
rural free delivery–Begun in 1896, brought daily mail delivery to residents living outside urban areas.

rust–Brownish mold that appears on stamps located in tropical regions.

- S -

SASE–A self-addressed, stamped envelope.

safety paper–Refers to any paper created to make stamps resistant to forgery.

sawtooth roulette–A saw-shaped cut made to stamp sheets or strips to permit their separation.

scrape–A stamp that has an abraded surface.

SDO–See stamp distribution office.

secret mark–A minute alteration to a stamp design for distinguishing a printing or to deter counterfeiting.

self-adhesive–See linerless.

selvage–The printed or un-printed margins on a sheet or pane of stamps.

semi-postal–Stamp sold at greater than its face value and the additional charge used for a designated purpose, usually charitable.

series–A group of stamps, printed over a period of time and using a similar design or theme.

serpentine roulette–A wave-shaped or curvy cut made to stamp sheets or strips to permit their separation.

set–Stamps with common design elements that are typically issued and collected as a group.

se-tenant–Two or more stamps that are joined, but which differ by denomination, design, or colors.

shade–Any minor variations in stamp color.

sheet (SH or SHT)–A complete unit of stamps as printed. Stamps are usually printed in large sheets (often 200 stamps) and are separated into two or more panes before shipment to post offices.

shift–A mistake due to imperfect contact between a sheet and a transfer roll.
short set–An incomplete set of stamps from the same issue.

silvering–Refers to encased stamps that have a thin silver coating for a coin-like effect.

skips–Stamps that have been used to deliver mail but, in error, have not been cancelled.

slabbing–Placing authenticated and/or graded stamps into containers to discourage tampering.

sleeper–Stamp or other collectible item that may be underpriced, potentially being a good investment.

sleeve–A flat transparent holder use to protect and/or store covers.

slogan cancel–A cancellation stamp that consists of a “saying,” advertising or other information.

snowman perforation–A perforation stamping error resulting in an overlay of perforations that resembles a headless snowman.

soaking–Removal of stamps from envelope paper.

socked on the nose–See bullseye.

souvenir card–A philatelic card, which has no postal use and which is usually created for a special event.

souvenir page–A U.S.P.S. announcement of a new stamp issue.

souvenir sheet –A small sheet of stamps which has a wide margin that includes information about a commemorative event.

space filler–A poor condition stamp that is used to fill the designated space in an album until a better specimen is (hopefully) acquired.

special printing–Reissue of a current stamp that features distinctive color, paper, or perforations.

specialist–A stamp collector who focuses on a limited area such as stamps from a certain time period, country, topic, etc.

specimen–Postal items which have an overprint of the word “Specimen” which is used for identification or publicity.

speculative issue–Stamp issues released for sale to collectors.

stamp–An official postage label which signifies that the mail delivery fee has been paid.

stamp distribution office–Any retail outlet that is authorized to sell postage stamps for either postal or collector use.

state revenues–Stamps created by various state governments to document taxes and fees paid for various goods in their respective jurisdictions.

stock book–A book containing rows of pockets on each page for holding stamps.

straight edge (SE)–Stamps which have no perforations on one or two adjacent sides.

strip–Three or more intact stamps in a row or column.

surcharge–An overprint that increases a stamp or postal stationary face value.

surtax–See semi-postal.

sweat box–A closed box containing dampened spongelike material and a grill for holding stamps. It is used to separate stamps from other stamps or envelopes.

syncopated perforation–An interrupted perforation.

- T -

tagging–Adding phosphor material to stamps in order to activate automated mail-handling equipment.

TC or TCP–Trial Color Proof.

teeth–The protruding points along the outer edge of a separated, perforated stamp.

telegraph stamp–Label used for paying telegraph fees.

territorial mail–Mail postmarked in areas that, at the time, were not admitted as states.

testing label–A stamp sized label which is used for testing automatic stamp vending machines.

tete-beche–French term describing two or more intact stamps which are inverted in relation to each other.

thematic–A collection of stamps featuring a specific topic.

tied–A stamp that is attached to an envelope and a cancel mark touches both items.

tone spot–A mark on a stamp that has a brown rusty appearance which detracts from the stamp’s value.

tong–Tweezers for handling stamps.

topical–Stamp or cover showing a particular subject or a stamp collection that features the same topic.

transit postmark–A postal mark that is made between destination points.

transition stamp–A strip of stamps showing a change from one design to another.

trial color proofs–Stamps that are printed in different colors in order to select their final version.

triptych–A strip of three related stamps which form a single design.

type–A basic design of a stamp or a set.

- U -

UA–Unaddressed.

UGAI–See ungummed as issued.

UL–Upper Left.

underfranked–Insufficient postage.

underprint–A fine printing underlying the design of a stamp, most often used to deter counterfeiting.

ungummed–A stamp without gum (due to original issue or to removal of adhesive).

ungummed as issued–A stamp issue that does not contain adhesive.

unhinged–A stamp without hinge marks.

unissued–Stamp prepared for postal use but which are not issued.
United States Specialist, The–The monthly publication of the United States Stamps Society.

United States Stamps Society–The United States largest stamp collector’s organization.

Universal Postal Union (UPU)–An international organization which regulates postal usage and aides in moving mail among its member nations.

unofficial first day cancel–Cancels applied on the first day of stamp’s issue, but not in the issuing city.

UPU–See universal postal union.

UR–Upper Right.
unused–An uncanceled stamp that has not been used but has some feature which eliminates it from mint status.

used (U)–See cancel.

USPS–United States Postal Service.

USSS–See The United States Stamp Society.

- V -

V mail–An expedited mailing processed used during WWII for mail between members of the armed forces.

variable denomination–A stamp which has its value printed by a vending machine at the same time it is issued.

variety–A variation from the standard form of a stamp, such as inverts, watermarks, missing colors, imperforates, wrong colors, and major color shifts.

VF–Stamp condition, "very fine."
vending booklet–Stamp booklet created for sail via vending machines.

VG–Stamp condition, “very good.”
vignette–A stamp design’s center which is usually surrounded by a border and, sometimes, includes a gradual shading into the surrounding area.

vintage–A stamp which includes its year of issue.

VLH–Very lightly hinged.

- W -

wallpaper–Issues which have little or no philatelic or monetary value.
want list–A collector’s list of needed stamps or covers that is given to a dealer and typically includes information on desired condition and pricing.

war emergency rate–A temporary stamp rate increase to help with the United States’ WWI expenses.

war tax stamps–Stamps used on mail during wars as a fund-raiser.

Washington bicentennials–Stamp issue (1932) that commemorated the bicentennial of George Washington’s birth.

water-activated adhesive–Stamp gum that adheres when it is moistened.

watermark–A deliberate thinning of paper during its manufacture to produce a semitranslucent pattern.

watermark detector–Method of a placing a stamp in a tray of fluid in order to discover a watermark.

web–A continuous roll of paper used in stamp printing.

wine stamps–See cordials.

wing margins–See flappers.

winter gum–Stamps containing a softer gum mixture that the Bureau of Engraving and Printing once used during cold-weather issues.

wiping creases–Marks on printing plates that are caused by cleaning blades and which are transferred to a stamp.

wove paper–Paper that is made by pressing the pulp against a fine netting, resulting in a finished product with a very uniform texture.

wreck cover–Mail salvaged from a shipwreck.

- X -

XF–Extra fine.

- Y -

YD–Year Date.

- Z -

Zeppelins (Zepps) –1. Stamps issued to commemorate zeppelin (airship) flights. 2. Nickname for stamps used for mail that was delivered by Graf Zeppelin (early air mail).

ZIP–A cartoon postal carrier used by the U.S. to encourage use of Zip Codes.

ZIP block–U.S. marginal marking block with the selvage bearing the image of the "ZIP" cartoon and/or words to encourage ZIP code use.

ZIP code–The U.S. numerical post code used to speed and mechanize mail handling and delivery. The letters stand for Zoning Improvement Plan.

zone–The U.S. numerical post code that was the predecessor to the zip code which expedited mail sorting and delivery.