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A Collector’s Introduction to the Philately of the Ionian Islands
The Ionian Islands hold a special place in philatelic history, being the first Greek territory to issue postage stamps. Their stamps not only tell a tale of postal evolution but also reflect the region’s complex political history, marked by occupations, overprints, and rare varieties. Allan Smith’s presentation takes us through the fascinating world of Ionian…
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Great Britain Stamps: Tangier Overprints
Tangier, Morocco, holds a fascinating place in both history and philately. This city, once a hotbed of international intrigue and diplomacy, also had a unique role in postal history, with stamps that offer collectors a glimpse into the geopolitical complexities of the time. Sam Vascones’ recent presentation shines a light on these rare stamps, helping…
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Rare Varieties of Canada’s Pence Issue Stamps (1851-1859): A Comprehensive Review
Canada’s philatelic journey began with a series of stamps known as the “Pence Issue” from 1851 to 1859, preceding the country’s Confederation in 1867. These stamps, numbered 1 to 13 in philatelic catalogs, are prized by collectors for their beauty, rarity, and historical significance. In a recent presentation, Arnie Janson provided a detailed overview of…
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Interrupted Mail: When Mail Meets Disaster
Ever wondered what happens when a letter faces disaster? From plane crashes to shipwrecks, these pieces of mail have survived extraordinary circumstances and provide a unique lens into history. In this video presentation by Arnie Janson on this intriguing topic, particularly focusing on interrupted mail in Canada. What is Interrupted Mail? Interrupted mail refers to…
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Uncovering Mail Fraud Covers: U.S. Parcel Post Postage Due Stamps and Victor Segno’s Scam
In Edward Grabowski’s presentation on early 20th-century mail order fraud, he delves into the activities of Professor Victor Segno and his Signal Success Club. The focus is on three covers featuring U.S. parcel post postage due stamps addressed to Segno. Grabowski begins by explaining Segno’s fraudulent scheme of sending “success waves” to clients for $10…
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Understanding Offset Lithograph Stamp Printing: A Detailed Guide
In this presenation Arnie Janson elegantly explains offset lithography in stamp printing and stamp varieties that can result from the process. Offset lithography, a key process in modern stamp printing, operates distinctly from engraved or gravure methods. This technique employs metal or polymer printing plates instead of the traditional lithographic stone, focusing on hydrophilic (water-attracting)…
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Philatelic Fantasies: Exploring Imaginary Countries Through Stamps
In Arnie Janson’s presentation on fantasy countries, he delves into the whimsical world of imaginary nations created by philatelists. These fantasy countries, despite being fictitious, possess a structured government, constitution, and postal authority that issues stamps, known as Cinderellas. The presentation highlights various philatelic items from these countries, such as first day covers, postal stationery,…
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Early Stamps of the Middle East Part 3: Lebanon, Alawites, and Latakia
In Allan Smith’s presentation on the early stamps of the Middle East, part three focuses on Lebanon, the Alawites, and Latakia. Allan begins by explaining the geopolitical shifts post-World War I, highlighting the division of the Ottoman territories and the establishment of the French and British Mandates. He discusses the initial use of Egyptian Expeditionary…
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Exploring the Rich History of Basutoland Stamps (1933-1966)
In Sam Vascone’s presentation on Basutoland stamps, he begins by providing a historical overview, explaining that Basutoland, a former British colony in Southern Africa, gained independence in 1966 and was renamed Lesotho. Sam highlights the initial definitive stamps featuring King George VI and local elements like crocodiles and the Drakensberg Mountains. He details the subsequent…
