Author Archives: VSC

Spiral Galaxy (Priority Mail) (US 2025)

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As predicted by VSC, the USPS announced a new Priority Mail stamp on December 16th:

USPS celebrates the continued exploration of deep space with an extremely high-definition image of a spiral galaxy 32 million light-years from Earth. The image, captured by NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope, helps researchers update their models of star formation and allows them to better understand the origins of our universe. Greg Breeding, an art director for USPS, designed the stamp with an image from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, the European Space Agency, the Canadian Space Agency, the Space Telescope Science Institute, Janice Lee (Space Telescope Science Institute), Thomas Williams (Oxford) and the Physics at High Angular resolution in Nearby GalaxieS Team. Upon favorable review by the Postal Regulatory Commission, the stamp will be denominated at the new Priority Mail Flat Rate Envelope rate.

The stamp will be issued January 21 in Big Sky, Montana, with a “local ceremony.” Additional information will be posted below the line, with the most recent information at the top.

Updated January 13th:
Here are the first-day postmarks for this issue:

[The Digital Color Postmark design and dimensions is not yet available.]Updated January 9th:

On January 21, 2025, in Big Sky, MT, the United States Postal Service® will issue the $10.10 Spiral Galaxy Priority Mail® stamp, in one design, in a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) pane of four stamps (Item 123000). This stamp will go on sale nationwide January 21, 2025, and must not be sold or canceled before the first-day-of-issue.

This new Priority Mail stamp celebrates America’s continued exploration of deep space with another breathtaking image captured by NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope. The stamp features spiral galaxy NGC 628 located 32 million light-years away from Earth in the constellation Pisces. This image helps researchers update their models of star formation and allows them to better understand the origins of our universe. Art director Greg Breeding designed the stamp, using an image provided by NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration), ESA (European Space Agency), CSA (Canadian Space Agency), STScI (Space Telescope Science Institute), Janice Lee (STScI), Thomas Williams (Oxford), and the PHANGS (Physics at High Angular resolution in Nearby GalaxieS) Team.

No automatic distribution.

How to Order the First-Day-of-Issue Postmark:
Customers have 120 days to obtain the first-day-of-issue postmark by mail. They may purchase new stamps at their local Post Office® or at The Postal Store® website at usps.com/shop. They must affix the stamps to envelopes of their choice, address the envelopes (to themselves or others), and place them in a larger envelope addressed to:

FDOI – Spiral Galaxy Stamp
USPS Stamp Fulfillment Services
8300 NE Underground Drive, Suite 300
Kansas City, MO 64144-9900

After applying the first-day-of-issue postmark, the Postal Service™ will return the envelopes through the mail. There is no charge for the postmark up to a quantity of 50. There is a 5-cent charge for each additional postmark over 50. All orders must be postmarked by May 21, 2025.

Technical Specifications:

Issue: Spiral Galaxy Stamp
Item Number: 123000
Denomination & Type of Issue: $10.10 Priority Mail Rate
Format: Pane of 4 (1 design)
Series: N/A
Issue Date & City: January 21, 2025, Big Sky, MT 59716
Art Director: Greg Breeding, Charlottesville, VA
Designer: Greg Breeding, Charlottesville, VA
Existing Image: NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration), ESA (European Space Agency), Canadian Space Agency, Space Telescope Science Institute, Janice Lee (Space Telescope Science Institute), Thomas Williams (Oxford), PHANGS Team
Modeler: Sandra Lane / Michelle Finn
Manufacturing Process: Offset, Microprint
Printer: Banknote Corporation of America
Press Type: Gallus RCS
Stamps per Pane: 4
Print Quantity: 2,400,000 stamps
Paper Type: Phosphor, Block Tag
Adhesive Type: Pressure-sensitive
Colors: Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black
Stamp Orientation: Horizontal
Image Area (w x h): 1.4200 x 1.0850 in. / 36.0680 x 27.5590 mm
Overall Size (w x h): 1.5600 x 1.2250 in. / 39.6240 x 31.1150 mm
Full Pane Size (w x h): 4.1200 x 3.4500 in. / 104.6480 x87.6300 mm
Plate Size: 80 stamps per revolution
Plate Number: “B” followed by four (4) single digits
Marginal Markings:
Front: Plate number in two corners
Back: © 2024 USPS • USPS Logo • Four barcodes (123000) • Plate position diagram (10) • Promotional text

Star Cluster (Priority Mail Express) (US 2025)

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As predicted by VSC, the USPS announced a new Priority Mail stamp on December 16th:

Featuring an image captured by NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope, this stamp shows a star cluster approximately 1,000 light-years from Earth. Hidden within the cloud of celestial dust are floating brown dwarfs — objects too small to be stars but larger than most planets. Studying these brown dwarfs will help scientists explore how star-formation processes operate for very small masses. Greg Breeding, an art director for USPS, designed the stamp with an image provided by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, the European Space Agency, the Canadian Space Agency, the Space Telescope Science Institute, Kevin Luhman (Penn State University) and Catarina Alves de Oliveira (European Space Agency). Upon favorable review by the Postal Regulatory Commission, the stamp will be denominated at the new Priority Mail Express Flat Rate Envelope rate.

The stamp will be issued January 21 in Big Sky, Montana, with a “local ceremony.” Additional information will be posted below the line, with the most recent information at the top.

Updated January 17th:
The DCP postmark was revised due to an “artist correction.” The illustration in the next item has been replaced with the new version. The dimensions are the same.

Updated January 13th:
Here are the first-day postmarks for this issue:The Digital Color Postmark measures 2.99″ x 1.50″This is the standard “killerbar” postmark.

Updated January 9th:

On January 21, 2025, in Big Sky, MT, the United States Postal Service® will issue the $31.40 Star Cluster Priority Mail Express® stamp, in one design, in a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) pane of four stamps (Item 129400). This stamp will go on sale nationwide January 21, 2025, and must not be sold or canceled before the first-day-of-issue.

This new Priority Mail Express® stamp celebrates America’s continued exploration of deep space with another remarkable image captured by NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope. The stamp features star cluster IC 348, a formation approximately 1,000 light-years from Earth within the constellation Perseus. Hidden within the cloud of celestial dust are tiny, free-floating brown dwarfs — objects too small to be stars but larger than most planets. Studying these brown dwarfs will help scientists explore how star-formation processes operate for very small masses. Art director Greg Breeding designed the stamp with an image provided by NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration), ESA (European Space Agency), CSA (Canadian Space Agency), STScI (Space Telescope Science Institute), Kevin Luhman (Penn State University), and Catarina Alves de Oliveira (ESA).

No automatic distribution.

How to Order the First-Day-of-Issue Postmark:
Customers have 120 days to obtain the first-day-of-issue postmark by mail. They may purchase new stamps at their local Post Office® or at The Postal Store® website at usps.com/shop. They must affix the stamps to envelopes of their choice, address the envelopes (to themselves or others), and place them in a larger envelope addressed to:

FDOI – Star Cluster Stamp
USPS Stamp Fulfillment Services
8300 NE Underground Drive, Suite 300
Kansas City, MO 64144-9900

After applying the first-day-of-issue postmark, the Postal Service™ will return the envelopes through the mail. There is no charge for the postmark up to a quantity of 50. There is a 5-cent charge for each additional postmark over 50. All orders must be postmarked by May 21, 2025.

Technical Specifications:

Issue: Star Cluster Stamp
Item Number: 129400
Denomination &Type of Issue: $31.40 Priority Mail Express Rate
Format: Pane of 4 (1 design)
Series: N/A
Issue Date & City: January 21, 2025, Big Sky, MT 59716
Art Director: Greg Breeding, Charlottesville, VA
Designer: Greg Breeding, Charlottesville, VA
Existing Photo: NASA, ESA, CSA, STScI, Kevin Luhman (PSU), Catarina Alves de Oliveira (ESA)
Modeler: Sandra Lane / Michelle Finn
Manufacturing Process: Offset, Microprint
Printer: Banknote Corporation of America
Press Type: Gallus RCS
Stamps per Pane: 4
Print Quantity: 600,000 stamps
Paper Type: Phosphor, Block Tag
Adhesive Type: Pressure-sensitive
Colors: Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black
Stamp Orientation: Horizontal
Image Area (w x h): 1.4200 x 1.0850 in. / 36.0680 x 27.5590 mm
Overall Size (w x h): 1.5600 x 1.2250 in. / 39.6240 x 31.1150 mm
Full Pane Size (w x h): 4.1200 x 3.4500 in. / 104.6480 x 87.6300 mm
Plate Size: 80 stamps per revolution
Plate Number: “B” followed by four (4) single digits
Marginal Markings:
Front: Plate number in two corners
Back: © 2024 USPS • USPS Logo • Four barcodes (129400) • Plate position diagram (10) • Promotional text

French-Canadian Authors (Canada 2024)

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[press release] [click on any of the pictures for larger versions]
New stamps pay tribute to five important French-Canadian authors
Through their novels, plays, poetry and essays, these writers inspire and enlighten readers throughout Canada and around the world.

OTTAWA –Canada Post has issued new stamps honouring five gifted authors, each of whom brings a unique perspective to the canon of French-Canadian literature.

Through their work, they offer unique observations of humanity’s flaws and aspirations, interpreting the world around them with honesty and compassion. Recognized throughout la Francophonie for their talents and accomplishments, and recipients of national and international accolades, these distinguished writers have brought French-Canadian literature to the world stage.

Canada Post has a long tradition of celebrating Canadian cultural achievement and has featured numerous English- and French-speaking authors on stamps. This issue is a celebration of contemporary French-Canadian writing, emphasizing authors from francophone communities across the country.

Marie-Claire Blais (1939-2021)
Born and raised in the working-class Québec neighbourhood of Limoilou, Blais wrote her first novel, La belle bête, before turning 20. With raw language – new to Quebec writing at the time – the book became an instant Quebec classic. Blais’ novels, plays, scripts and poems, known for their lyricism and complexity, depict a harsh world that can also be full of tenderness and compassion. During a prolific career, she received numerous awards, including four Governor General’s Literary Awards.

Jean Marc Dalpé (b. 1957)
Playwright, actor, poet, novelist and translator, Dalpé is a leading figure in the Franco-Ontarian cultural movement. Cofounder of Théâtre de la Vieille 17, which is dedicated to developing French-language theatre in Ontario, Dalpé’s writing explores the alienation of minorities. He taught at the National Theatre School of Canada and is the recipient of three Governor General’s Literary Awards.

 

Dany Laferrière (b. 1953)
Born in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Laferrière fled to Montréal in 1976 to escape dictatorship. His unique depiction of everyday life paints a vivid picture of the human condition, and his autobiographical and poetic novels have established him as a major chronicler of his time. He became the first Haitian, and the first Canadian, elected to the Académie française, and his internationally translated works have won numerous honours, including a Governor General’s Literary Award.

Antonine Maillet (b. 1929)
Renowned for her passion for Acadian identity, language and customs, Maillet writes in Acadian French. Her 1979 novel Pélagie-la-Charrette, about Acadians’ return home after being deported by the British in 1755, won France’s prestigious Prix Goncourt. Maillet was made an Officer of the Order of Canada in 1976 and promoted to Companion in 1981.

 

Marguerite-A. Primeau (1914-2011)
Born in Saint-Paul-des-Métis (now St. Paul), Alberta, Primeau was a pioneer in western Canadian French literature. Socially conscious and independent, she wrote in her mother tongue about the realities of francophone life in her region. With a focus on the marginalized and those left behind, she paints a dynamic and diverse francophone community and invites readers to embrace an inclusive perspective.

About the stamps
Designed by Stéphane Huot, the stamps feature illustrations by Martin Côté based on photographs of each author. Printed by Lowe-Martin, the issue includes a booklet of 10 Permanent™ stamps and five Official First Day Covers – one for each author. (see below)

The stamps and collectibles will be available at canadapost.ca and postal outlets across the country once Canada Post’s operations resume.

[en Francais pour les médias d’information]
De nouveaux timbres célèbrent cinq icônes de la littérature franco canadienne
Grâce à leurs romans, pièces de théâtre, poèmes et essais, ces grands noms inspirent et éclairent les gens au Canada et ailleurs dans le monde.

OTTAWA – Postes Canada a émis aujourd’hui de nouveaux timbres célébrant cinq plumes de talent qui apportent chacune une perspective unique au corpus de la littérature canadienne-française.

Par leur regard aiguisé sur le monde, ses failles et ses espérances, ces figures marquantes nous tendent un miroir implacable et sensible. Leur talent rayonne dans la Francophonie et élève la littérature d’ici à la hauteur de la littérature universelle. Collectivement, leur œuvre leur a valu un grand nombre de distinctions et de prix, dont certains à l’international.

Postes Canada rend hommage depuis longtemps aux personnalités canadiennes qui s’illustrent dans le milieu de la culture et a mis en vedette de nombreux écrivains et écrivaines francophones et anglophones sur des timbres. Cette émission célèbre la littérature franco-canadienne contemporaine et présente des icônes de diverses régions francophones du Canada.

Marie-Claire Blais (1939-2021)
Née et élevée dans le quartier ouvrier de Limoilou, près de Québec, Marie-Claire Blais n’a pas encore 20 ans quand elle écrit son premier roman, La belle bête. Le livre, au langage cru jusque-là inusité en littérature québécoise, devient instantanément un classique. Reconnus pour leur lyrisme et leur complexité, les romans, les pièces de théâtre et les poèmes de Marie-Claire Blais reflètent un monde dur, mais aussi la tendresse et la compassion. De nombreuses distinctions sont décernées à l’autrice durant sa prolifique carrière, dont quatre Prix littéraires du Gouverneur général.

Jean Marc Dalpé (né en 1957)
Dramaturge, comédien, poète, romancier et traducteur, Jean Marc Dalpé est l’une des figures marquantes d’un mouvement culturel franco-ontarien. Cofondateur du Théâtre de la Vieille 17, qui se consacre au développement d’un théâtre ontarien en français, l’auteur explore l’aliénation des personnes qui appartiennent à un peuple minoritaire. Il enseigne à l’École nationale de théâtre du Canada et reçoit trois Prix littéraires du Gouverneur général.

Dany Laferrière (né en 1953)
Né à Port-au-Prince, en Haïti, Dany Laferrière s’exile à Montréal en 1976 pour fuir la dictature. C’est dans sa manière unique de traiter le quotidien qu’il brosse un tableau saisissant de la condition humaine. Ses romans à saveur autobiographique et poétique l’imposent comme un témoin majeur de son temps. Il est le premier Haïtien et le premier Canadien élu à l’Académie française, et son œuvre, traduite mondialement, lui vaut de nombreuses distinctions, y compris un Prix littéraire du Gouverneur général.

Antonine Maillet (née en 1929)
Reconnue pour sa passion pour l’identité, la langue et les coutumes acadiennes, Antonine Maillet écrit en français acadien. Publié en 1979, son roman Pélagie-la-Charrette, qui raconte le retour en Acadie de gens déportés par les Britanniques en 1755, remporte le prestigieux Prix Goncourt, en France. Antonine Maillet est faite Officier de l’Ordre du Canada en 1976, puis Compagnon en 1981.

Marguerite-A. Primeau (1914-2011)
Née à Saint-Paul-des-Métis (aujourd’hui St. Paul), en Alberta, Marguerite-A. Primeau devient une pionnière de la littérature francophone de l’Ouest canadien. Socialement engagée et indépendante, elle écrit dans sa langue maternelle sur les réalités de la vie des francophones dans sa région. Mettant en avant les personnes marginalisées et oubliées, elle dépeint une communauté francophone dynamique et diversifiée, et invite le public à adopter une perspective inclusive.

À propos des timbres
Conçus par Stéphane Huot, les timbres présentent des illustrations de Martin Côté inspirées de photographies des auteurs et autrices. Imprimée par Lowe-Martin, l’émission comprend un carnet de 10 timbres PermanentsMC et cinq plis Premier Jour officiels, un pour chaque icône.

Les timbres et les articles de collection seront en vente sur postescanada.ca et dans les comptoirs postaux partout au pays lorsque les activités de Postes Canada reprendront.

Winston Churchill (UK 2024)

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[press release] [click on any of the pictures for larger versions]
Royal Mail Special Stamps Mark 150th Anniversary of the Birth of Sir Winston Churchill

  • Issue date: 30 November 2024
  • Eight stamps capture the essence of Churchill’s remarkable journey – from his early years as a soldier and statesman to his leadership during the Second World War and beyond
  • Accompanying each stamp are some of Churchill’s most famous quotes, offering timeless words of wisdom that continue to inspire
  • The stamps and a range of collectible products are available to pre-order now at www.royalmail.com/churchill and by telephone on 03457 641641

Royal Mail has revealed a set of eight stamps being issued to mark the 150th anniversary of the birth of one of Britain’s most iconic figures, Sir Winston Churchill.

The stamps celebrate the life and legacy of the man who led the nation through its darkest hours and captures the essence of Churchill’s remarkable journey – from his early years as a soldier and statesman to his leadership during the Second World War and beyond.

Each stamp in the collection features carefully chosen photographs of Churchill at defining moments in his life, accompanied by some of his most memorable quotes from articles, books, letters and speeches.

These words continue to inspire and resonate, embodying the strength, determination and wit for which Churchill is renowned.

In July 1965, Winston Churchill featured on the first British stamp to feature a contemporary individual. Since then, he has also featured in the following stamp issues: Churchill Centenary, 1974; National Portrait Gallery, 2006; Britain Alone. 2010; and Prime Ministers, 2014.

David Gold, Director of External Affairs and Policy said: “One hundred and fifty years after his birth, this stamp issue celebrates the enduring legacy of a leader who shaped the course of history and left an indelible mark on the hearts of the British people.”

Royal Mail worked closely with Allen Packwood, Director of the Churchill Archives Centre at Churchill College, University of Cambridge. Speaking about the stamps, he said: “I think Winston Churchill would have been rather pleased to be the subject of these stamps, one hundred and fifty years after his birth. His archive certainly contains no shortage of letters.”

Winston Churchill:
Winston Leonard Spencer Churchill was born at Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire, on 30 November 1874.

Following an early career in the army in the 1890s, he made his first attempts in politics. However, after failing to be elected as a Member of Parliament in 1899, he travelled to South Africa as a war correspondent to cover the conflict between the British Empire and the Boer Republics. His capture and daring escape made his name and saw him elected the following year. He would become a Cabinet Minister in 1908, aged 33. In the same year, he married Clementine Hozier, entering a lifelong union.

His initial political rise stalled during the First World War, when he lost office over his advocacy for the unsuccessful Dardanelles campaign. His response was to take up painting and to serve for a brief period as a commander on the Western Front. By the end of the conflict, he was back in government, taking up a succession of high-profile Cabinet positions. By the 1930s, however, he had become alienated over his opposition to Indian independence and his views on empire. Yet, his warnings about the dangers of a resurgent Nazi Germany gradually restored his reputation and raised his profile.

When war came in September 1939, Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain made him First Lord of the Admiralty, only for Churchill to be propelled into 10 Downing Street the following May. While Churchill promised ‘victory’ in his inaugural speech to the House of Commons, the first weeks of his premiership were marked by military disaster, culminating in the evacuation of Allied forces from Dunkirk. With the country facing possible invasion, it fell to Churchill to rally his government and the nation. He is now remembered for several key speeches and broadcasts that have assumed an iconic status.

Churchill was defeated in the 1945 general election but used his stature on the international stage to warn of an ‘iron curtain’ descending across Europe. He argued for a ‘special relationship’ with the United States, but also urged reconciliation between France and Germany. Back as Prime Minister in 1951, his government presided over the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II.

Churchill left office in April 1955, his health failing. A slow decline ensued and his death, aged 90, on 24 January 1965, was followed by a state funeral. His long life witnessed huge changes and he played a role in many of them, participating in events but also writing about them. He remains one of the most important figures of the 20th century.

The stamps and a range of collectible products are available to pre-order now at www.royalmail.com/churchill and by telephone on 03457 641641. They go on general sale on 30 November. The Collectors Sheet (above) is £15.50 (current US$19.42). The first day cover, with either the Westerham of Tallents House postmark, is £13.85.The Prestige FDC, with either postmark, is £4.25. (The Prestige Stamp Book is £22.25.)There are three coin covers available, ranging from £17.50 to this one, with a gold coin, at £1,390 (US$1748.09).

AFDCS Reelects 4 to Its Board

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AFDCS Members Reelect Four to The Board

Members of the American First Day Cover Society have reelected four people to the organization’s board of directors: Michael Lake, Cynthia Scott, Ralph Nafziger and Lorraine Bailey. There were five candidates running for the four three-year terms:

Michael Lake (199)
Cynthia Scott (193)
Ralph Nafziger (190)
Lorraine Bailey (152)
Walter Douglas George (141)

In addition, Chris Calle, Michael Moticia, Michael Rosenthal, and Don Trieschmann each received one write-in vote. Moticia is already serving on the board, after election in 2022. More than 230 ballots were cast, an increase from last year.

This was the first AFDCS election for George, a former supermarket industry executive, and a member of the Convention Planning Committee.

Lake, also of Massachusetts, is also AFDCS Education Committee chair. Scott, from Indiana, is currently Chair of the board and has previously served the society in many other posts. Nafziger lives in Oregon and is also executive vice president. Bailey, a former AFDCS Sales chair from Virginia, is currently on the Honors & Awards Committee and was granted an Honorary Life Membership in 2008 for her long service to the AFDCS.

Four seats on the AFDCS Board of Directors are elected each year for three-year terms, beginning Jan. 1. In addition to the 12 elected directors, the president, the editor of the official journal First Days, and the general counsel serve on the board ex officio, if not elected to the board in their own right. The board meets in person at least once a year and as needed via the internet.

AFDCS directors are not compensated for serving on the board nor reimbursed for their travel expenses.

For more information about the AFDCS, visit www.afdcs.org, e-mail afdcs@afdcs.org or write the AFDCS at Post Office Box 57, Somerset, WI 54025-0057

Patrick Morgan Is New AFDCS Membership Chair

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Patrick Morgan of St. Charles, Mo., is the new chair of the Membership Department of the American First Day Cover Society and a member of its Executive Committee. He succeeds Patrick MorganFoster E. Miller, III, who had held the position since 2008.

Morgan, with an MBA from Washington University, worked for IBM for 25 years, where he managed infrastructure architecture for services customers before retiring, and served for four years on the board of the St. Louis affiliate of the Susan G. Komen breast cancer organization. He is presently in his first term on the AFDCS Board of Directors.

Pat collects FDCs topically — by subject — and is also a member of the American Topical Association, as well as the American Philatelic Society, Poster Stamp Collectors Club, and the Greater Mound City Stamp Club, of which he is Treasurer. He also collects postal cards with Fleetwood cachets and Artmaster airmail FDCs, and has written articles for First Days and Topical Time.

“Pat was highly recommend by everyone to whom I talked,” said AFDCS president Lloyd A. de Vries. “He started looking at our membership programs even before he was confirmed by the Board.”

Miller remains chair of the AFDCS Sales Department and represents the organization at many shows each year. He is also on the Board.

“We could not have made it through the past few years without Foster reconstructing and then maintaining our membership records,” said de Vries. “Now, however, I want to lighten his load and also put more emphasis on recruitment and retention of members.”

The AFDCS is the largest not-for-profit first day cover society in the world, with members in more than a dozen countries. It publishes an award-winning journal, First Days, six times a year, as well as handbooks, catalogues and You-Tube videos, and is a co-sponsor of the annual Great American Stamp Show. It holds an annual cachetmaking contest and two mail auctions a year, and encourages philatelic exhibiting and writing about FDCs.

Morgan can be reached directly at membership@afdcs.org. For more information about the AFDCS, visit www.afdcs.org, e-mail afdcs@afdcs.org or write the AFDCS at Post Office Box 57, Somerset, WI 54025-0057

Robins Celebrate Holidays (Netherlands 2024)

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[press release] [click on any of the pictures for larger versions]
PostNL launches December stamps with robins: a sign of hopeThe Hague, 18 November 2024 – This year, PostNL is issuing atmospheric December stamps with robins, designed by illustrator Marieke Ruts. The ten unique scenes on the stamps convey a message of hope and warmth for the holidays. The robins, beloved birds that symbolize comfort and resilience, are incorporated into various playful and wintery decors.

Exclusive gift with purchase
Anyone who buys two sheets of December stamps will receive a special Christmas ornament from Vondels, designed in the shape of the gifts as seen on the sleigh stamp. With this, PostNL offers an extra festive gesture to anyone who wants to send Christmas and New Year cards, with a favorable rate of €1.06 per December stamp, valid from 18 November 2024 to 4 January 2025.

A contemporary twist
Ruts designed the illustrations with a wink and a contemporary twist. “I wanted to create something light and fun, without any nostalgia,” says Marieke. “With a few sparklers, for example, but no firecrackers – my dogs can’t stand them. And the Christmas tree is in a wheelbarrow, because after Christmas it will simply be put back in the ground. Isn’t that sustainable?” Marieke also added playful details that are not quite right. “Who hangs a Christmas sweater outside on the washing line in the winter? And who lets a robin drive a sleigh? Those little details bring a smile and some joy during the holidays.”

About the illustrator
Marieke Ruts, also known as Mevrouw Emmer, has been working as a freelance illustrator since 2011 and opened her concept store in Oostvoorne in early 2024. In addition to her work as an illustrator, she offers a range of unique products there. With these December stamps, she shows a contemporary and cheerful view of the holidays, where tradition and humor come together.

Availability
The December stamps will be available from November 18, 2024 at all PostNL sales points in the Netherlands and via the webshop. The stamps can also be ordered by telephone from the Collect Club customer service on telephone number 088 – 868 99 00. The validity period is indefinite, but the December stamps may only be used from November 18, 2024 to January 4, 2025 without adding any additional stamps. A sheet with 20 December stamps costs € 21.20 this year.

Note: PostNL does not sell directly to collectors in North America. Its website refers to a company called Nordfirm, which says it sells Dutch new issues at face value. The Virtual Stamp Club has no connection to this company.

Collectors may also wish to contact the U.S. firm Bombay Stamps, which can also obtain first day covers upon request, with lower shipping fees. The email is sales@bombaystamps.com Again, The Virtual Stamp Club has no connection to this company.

USPS Operation Santa Enters 21st Century

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[press release] [click on any of the pictures for larger versions]
USPS Operation Santa Launches Online Catalog Santa’s Gift Shoppe Powered by Toys“R”Us®
New e-commerce option for gift fulfillment makes it easy to shop for and ship the perfect gift

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Postal Service is announcing the debut of an online e-commerce catalog for the fulfillment of gifts: Santa’s Gift Shoppe, an online option developed exclusively for USPS Operation Santa letter adopters, powered by Toys“R”Us, just in time for the start of the program’s first day of letter adoption.

The new site offers a streamlined experience, making it easier for participants to shop for the ideal gift and ship it from the comfort of their homes with just a click.

The online catalog boasts a selection of toys and gifts from Toys“R”Us, allowing letter adopters to find something special for each letter writer, while the integration with shipping options from the Postal Service, such as USPS Ground Advantage, helps ensure that gifts are affordable to ship and arrive in time for the holidays.

“USPS Operation Santa has connected communities through holiday goodwill for over a century,” said USPS Marketing Vice President Sheila Holman. “This year, through our collaboration with Toys“R”Us, we’re thrilled to bring an easier way for generous people to make a difference. With the launch of this new e-commerce platform, we’re making it simpler than ever to help fulfill wishes and spread holiday joy.”

The introduction of Santa’s Gift Shoppe marks the first of what the Postal Service hopes to be several collaborations in expanding its online catalog to include clothing, shoes, books and more.

“Our joint effort with Toys“R”Us is just the beginning. We’re looking to broaden our selection of gifts in the future to help expand the impact of USPS Operation Santa and create even more opportunities for Americans to spread holiday cheer,” said Holman.

Since its inception 112 years ago, USPS Operation Santa has enabled the public to adopt letters to Santa written by children and families. By choosing a letter, participants make a direct impact on their communities, bringing hope, joy and generosity to the holiday season.

The launch of the e-commerce site coincides with the first day of letter adoption for the program’s 2024 holiday season. Supporters are invited to visit the official USPS Operation Santa website to browse letters, choose a child’s wish to fulfill and benefit from the enhanced shopping and shipping options through Santa’s Gift Shoppe to make holiday dreams come true.

“At Toys“R”Us, our mission is to bring joy to children, and what better way than to surprise them with gifts from Santa,” said Gary Haas, vice president of e-commerce at Toys“R”Us. “Through this new e-commerce platform, generous individuals can easily adopt a letter to Santa and help create magical moments for a new generation of Toys“R”Us kids.”

Also this holiday season, USPS Operation Santa will be featured in a new season of “Dear Santa, The Series,” debuting Nov. 24 on all ABC-owned television stations and streaming on Hulu beginning Nov. 29. The series provides a heartwarming, behind-the-scenes look at the impact of the program, showcasing real stories of generosity and the spirit of the holidays as letters are answered and wishes are fulfilled. “Dear Santa, The Series” captures the essence of USPS Operation Santa, highlighting the dedication of the Postal Service, the support of generous Americans and the joy felt by recipients across the nation.

For more information on how to participate in the program, visit USPSOperationSanta.com.

Financial Woes for Major Publisher?

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by Lloyd A. de Vries

Amos Media, the largest philatelic media publisher in the U.S., appears to be having financial difficulties. Amos publishes the Scott Postage Stamp Catalogs, Linn’s Stamp News and Scott Stamp Monthly, as well as publications for other hobbies.

In a discussion in The Stamp Collecting Forum started by veteran philatelic writer Ken Lawrence in early October, readers revealed they had not received their printed copies of Monthly for several months and columnists for both that magazine and Linn’s reported receiving no payments for their articles since June. [Disclosure: The author of this article is a Linn’s columnist who has not been paid since June.] In addition, printed editions of the Scott catalogues that were due for release on or after September 1 were on back-order, with no date of delivery, and remained so at the end of 2024. Digital editions are available.

Printed editions of Coin World magazine, also published by Amos, also were not available, according to a post on a coin collectors forum.

In early December, Amos Media advised print subscribers via email that printing of SSM would resume with the December issue and the catalogues would be shipped in early 2025. The company blamed a “business dispute” with its printer that had been resolved.

The problems with the printed copies of SSM follow a disturbing pattern. Abruptly in mid-August, Linn’s Stamp News announced it was immediately halting the printing of its weekly newspaper with the current issue, and it and future issues would only be available online. The announcement said SSM would continue to be printed and mailed to subscribers who had chosen that option. However, the September issues failed to arrive in mailboxes.

In reply to an email query from The Virtual Stamp Club, Amos Media chairman Rick Amos [below right] apologized for the lack of communication with readers.

“We’ve had an issue with our printer and several times over the past month we thought it had been resolved. It now has and Scott Stamp Monthly will return soon,” he wrote “We are waiting for the date in which the December issue will be mailed to subscribers. Once we do the dates will be published on our website and sent via email to our subscribers.”

He did not address the problems with the catalogues, which was included in The VSC‘s inquiry.

Amos is the only person listed in the “Our Team” section of the Amos Media website, and his biography there is outdated: It says he is also president of another company, which he left more than ten years ago. On LinkedIn he describes himself as a “serial entrepreneur” and both his current ventures and his residence are in the Chicago area, about 250 miles from the headquarters of Amos Media in Sidney, Ohio. One wonders at how involved he is in running Amos Media.

Although Amos told The VSC in that November 22 email that “no decision has been made yet if we will still print the October and November issues,” an email to subscribers in early December said those issues, plus September 2024, would not be printed. Print subscribers will have their subscriptions extended and advertisers will receive at 30% credit toward future advertising but not a refund. The ads did appear in the digital editions.

“We are pleased to announce that the Scott Stamp Monthly December issue will be mailed during the week of December 16th,” said the message, signed “The Linn’s and Scott Team.” “Furthermore, the Scott Specialized and Classic catalogues will be mailed sometime in January and February 2025.” The message was repeated on the editorial page of the December issue of SSM.

Some subscribers reported receiving printed copies of the magazine on December 24.

“Issues with suppliers” are often the suppliers’ unwillingness to provide the product or service without getting paid. “If this were a book we’d be be looking at Chapter 11,” commented collector Lawrence Sherman on The Virtual Stamp Club‘s message board.

In late December, Brookman Stamp Co. advertised an alternative to the Scott Specialized via an email sent by the American Stamp Dealers Association: “Are you STILL waiting for the Scott US Specialized Catalog?” was the subject line.

The Scott books are the major catalogues for stamp collectors in the U.S., Canada and Mexico. The first Scott catalogue was a 21-page pricelist in 1886 by New York City stamp dealer John Walter Scott. Scott Publishing was acquired by Amos in 1984 and the operations moved to Sidney, Ohio, near Dayton. Today, the catalogue is six volumes plus related specialty catalogues and thousands of pages and costs nearly $700 from the Amos website (list price $1,034.92).

The major catalogue publisher for British Commonwealth issues, Stanley Gibbons, also has been in financial trouble, reorganizing in December 2023 to relieve itself of a debt burden.

Annual Holiday (Secular Christmas) Issue (U.S. 2025)

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Nothing about this issue has been announced or confirmed, but The Virtual Stamp Club will go out on an evergreen limb and say that there will be such an issue and that it will likely be at least four stamps and have the word “holiday” in its name. While no references will be made in the promotional material to “Christmas,” the designs will have symbols associated with that holiday and the word “seasonal” will be used several times.

However, stamps for the Madonna and Child, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa are unlikely, inasmuch as these seem to be on a two-year cycle and stamps for these subjects were issued in 2024.