U.S. 2015 Stamp Program Update – May 18th

Posted on May 18, 2015 by VSC

The three-ounce (93¢) stamp subject will be Flannery O’Connor. These new rate change stamps, including the three reprint-designs, will not have denominations, but rather a description of the rate they cover:

Flannery O’Connor: Three Ounce

Eastern Tiger Swallowtail Butterfly: Non-Machineable Surcharge

Yes I Do, Wedding Cake, Vintage Tulip: Two Ounce

Coastal Birds: Postcard

Penguins: Additional Ounce.

The plan is to have all future definitives with these names rather than denominations. The word Forever is not used to avoid confusion by customers.

Heraldic Beasts (UK 2015)

Posted on May 18, 2015 by VSC

[press release]

Post & Go Pictorial Stamps – Heraldic Beats

Issue date 13th May 2015
Stamp design and background
Award-winning illustrator and print-maker Chris Wormell was commissioned to create images of the six beasts chosen for this stamp issue. Working closely with Royal Mail and a heraldic expert, he portrayed all of the beasts except the falcon in the ‘passant’ position, that is, facing the viewer’s left and with the right foreleg raised. The brightly coloured background, chosen from a heraldically appropriate palette, adds vibrancy of the images.

Stamp Set with Carrier Card £3.72 Code ZS034
The Heraldic Beasts carrier card, designed by Osborne Ross and written by Jim K Davies, features a brief introduction to the origins of heraldry and a description of each of the six beasts featured on stamps: lion, unicorn, yale, dragon, falcon and griffin. It also describes illustrator Chris Wormell’s method of working and includes sketches he made before tracing them onto lino boards and preparing the final images using traditional tools, hand-printing and Photoshop.

First Day Covers
Inland £4.94 Code: ZF018
Overseas £4.12 Code: ZF018
First Day Envelope 30p Code: ZE017

The filler card includes similar information to that included on the carrier card, except that it features sketches of different beasts.

The alternative handstamp location – Dragonby, Scunthorpe – has been chosen based on its name.

Post & Go Stamps HERALDIC BEASTS Stamp Specifications
Number of stamps: Six
Date of issue: 13 May 2015
Design: Osborne Ross
Acknowledgements: illustrations and sketches by Chris Wormell
Printer: International Security Printers
Process: Gravure
Format: Landscape
Size: 56mm x 25mm
Perforations: Die-cut simulated
Phosphor: Bars as appropriate
Gum: Self-adhesive

Beasts of all persuasions and permutations have appeared on coats of arms and heraldic badges for nearly 900 years. Each has its own particular meaning and significance, but often they include traits demonstrated in battle, such as courage, strength and resilience. One reason for this is that heraldry originally emerged from the need to distinguish participants in combat when their faces were hidden by armour. From these practical beginnings, however, heraldry developed into a complex and sophisticated visual language. Royal Mail’s Post & Go: Heraldic Beasts stamps feature six creatures found in British heraldry as interpreted by Chris Wormell, an English illustrator best known for his distinctive etching and linocut work. The beasts, with the exception of the falcon, are shown ‘passant’ – that is, walking towards the viewer’s left, with the right foreleg raised and the others on the ground. Each painstakingly hand-crafted image occupies a brightly coloured background chosen from a heraldically appropriate palette to add to the vibrancy.

The lion is one of the most familiar ancient heraldic figures, or charges, often representing courage and valour in battle. The king of beasts can also signify Christ or royalty and comes in a bewildering array of poses and variations, from double-headed to crowned, wielding a sword or with a knotted tail.

The unicorn has the body of a horse, the tail of a lion and the legs of a deer – as well as an impressive spiral horn protruding from its face. Known for its virtue, courage and strength, the unicorn was a relative latecomer to the heraldic bestiary, first gaining popularity during the 15th century.

The yale is another mythological hybrid, about the size of a hippopotamus, usually with a goat-like body and the tusks of a boar, although descriptions vary wildly. Most agree on its crowning glory: a pair of large, swivelling horns, perfect for fighting – the reason it came to symbolise ‘proud defence’.

The dragon is a mainstay of heraldry, usually portrayed as a large, ferocious reptilian beast with bat-like wings, a forked tongue and a pointed tail. These fire-spewing creatures are known for their keen sight, power and wisdom – and as zealous guardians of treasure. A two-footed dragon is called a wyvern.

The falcon is one of many birds, actual and imagined, to feature in heraldry. It symbolises majesty and power – as well as someone utterly determined, who does not rest until his or her goal is achieved. Anne Boleyn’s badge bore a crowned falcon with a sceptre, later adopted by her daughter, Queen Elizabeth I.

The griffin has the head, wings and talons of an eagle, fused with the back parts of a lion. It is often depicted with large, leonine ears, which reflect its acute sense of hearing, to go along with other extraordinary powers. As a symbol in heraldry, the griffin stands for strength and vigilance.

ROYAL MAIL POST & GO STAMPS
Post & Go stamps are a new generation of postage available from self-service machines in main Post Offices. The first Post & Go stamps with pictorial designs were introduced in 2010 with a series on British birds. A second series on traditional breeds of farm animals was issued in 2012, followed by a series featuring freshwater life in 2013 and another on British flora in 2014.

71¢ Wedding Cake (U.S. 2015)

Posted on May 15, 2015 by VSC

Updated June 1st: First day postmarks:
Standard 4-bar FIRST DAY OF ISSUE
Digital Color Postmark:

from the Postal Bulletin May 27th:
On June 1, 2015, in Kansas City, MO, the U.S. Postal Service® will reissue the Wedding Cake two ounce rate mail-use stamp, (Non-denominated priced at 71 cents), in one design, in a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) pane of 20 stamps (Item 589600).

The stamp will go on sale nationwide June 1, 2015.

The Wedding Cake issuance, first introduced in 2009 and sold at the two ounce stamp price, accommodates the heavier weight of an invitation, as well as other mailings such as oversize cards or small gifts that require extra postage. The stamp art features a photograph taken by Renée Comet of a three-tiered wedding cake topped with white flowers. Pastry chef Peter Brett created and designed the cake. The words “Two Ounce” on the stamp indicate its usage value. Like a Forever® stamp, this stamp will always be valid for the rate printed on it. The initial price and value for this stamp is 71 cents. Art director Ethel Kessler designed the stamp.

How to Order the First-Day-of-Issue Postmark:
Customers have 60 days to obtain the first-day-of-Issue Postmark: by mail. They may purchase new stamps at their local Post Office, at The Postal Store® website at http://www.usps.com/shop, or by calling 800-STAMP-24. They should affix the stamps to envelopes of their choice, address the envelopes (to themselves or others), and place them in a larger envelope addressed to:

71¢ Wedding Cake Stamp
Cancellation Services
8300 NE Underground Drive, Pillar 210
Kansas City, MO 64144-0001

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. For more than 50, customers have to pay five cents each. All orders must be postmarked by July 31, 2015.

There are five philatelic products for the Wedding Cake stamp issue:

589610, Digital Color Postmark Keepsake, $16.95.
589616, First-Day Cover, $1.15.
589621, Digital Color Postmark, $1.86.
589631, Stamp Deck Card, $0.95.
589632, Stamp Deck Card with Digital Color Postmark, $2.21.

Technical Specifications:

Issue: Wedding Cake Stamp
Item Number: 589600
Denomination & Type of Issue: Two Ounce Rate Non-Denominated, Mail-Use
Format: Pane of 20 (1 design)
Series: Weddings
Issue Date & City: June 1, 2015, Kansas City, MO 64108
Designer: Ethel Kessler, Bethesda, MD
Art Director: Ethel Kessler, Bethesda, MD
Typographer: Ethel Kessler, Bethesda, MD
Photographer: Renée Comet, Washington, DC
Modeler: Donald Woo
Manufacturing Process: Microprint, Offset
Printer: Banknote Corporation of America/SSP
Printed at: Browns Summit, NC
Press Type: Alprinta 74
Stamps per Pane: 20
Print Quantity: 30 million stamps
Paper Type: Phosphor Tagged Paper, Overall
Adhesive Type: Pressure-sensitive
Processed at: Banknote Corporation of America, Browns Summit SC
Colors: Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black PMS 874, PMS Warm Gray 9
Stamp Orientation: Vertical
Image Area (w x h): 0.76 x 0.87 in./19.18 x 22.01 mm
Overall Size (w x h): 0..91 x 1.19 in./23.11 x 30.22 mm
Full Pane Size (w x h): 5.43 x 5.64 in./137.80 x 143.12 mm
Press Sheets Size (w x h): 10.85 x 22.54 in./275.59 x 572.52 mm
Plate Size: 200 stamps per revolution
Plate Numbers: “S” followed by six (6) single digits
Marginal Markings: Front: Plate numbers in two corners of pane
Back: © 2008 USPS • USPS logo • Plate position diagram • Barcode (589600) in upper right and lower left corners of pane • Promotional text

From the USPS May 26th:
The Wedding Cake issuance, introduced in 2009 and sold at the two-ounce stamp price, accommodates the heavier weight of an invitation, as well as other mailings such as oversize cards or small gifts that require extra postage. The stamp art features a photograph taken by Renée Comet of Washington, DC, of a three-tiered wedding cake topped with white flowers. Pastry chef Peter Brett of Washington, DC, created and designed the cake. The words “TWO OUNCE” on the stamp indicate its usage value. These Forever stamps will always be equal in value to the applicable price for the price category printed on them, at the time of use. The initial price and value for this stamp is 71 cents effective May 31. Art director Ethel Kessler of Bethesda, MD, designed the stamp.

From the USPS May 18th:
The Wedding Cake issuance, first introduced in 2009 and sold at the two-ounce stamp price, accommodates the heavier weight of an invitation, as well as other mailings such as oversize cards or small gifts that require extra postage. The stamp art features a photograph taken by Renée Comet of a three-tiered wedding cake topped with white flowers. Pastry chef Peter Brett created and designed the cake. The words “Two Ounce” on the stamp indicate its usage value. These Forever stamps will always be equal in value to the applicable price for the price category printed on them, at the time of use. The initial price and value for this stamp is 71 cents. Art director Ethel Kessler designed the stamp.

The first day of issue is June 1, without a ceremony. The city is Kansas City (Stamp Fulfillment Services).

71¢ Yes I Do (U.S. 2015)

Posted on May 15, 2015 by VSC

Updated June 1st: First day postmarks:
Standard 4-bar FIRST DAY OF ISSUE
Digital Color Postmark:

from the Postal Bulletin May 27th:
On June 1, 2015, in Kansas City, MO, the U.S. Postal Service® will reissue the Yes, I Do two ounce rate mail-use stamp, (Non-denominated priced at 71 cents), in one design, in a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) pane of 20 stamps (Item 589400).

The stamp will go on sale nationwide June 1, 2015.

The Weddings series Yes, I Do stamp, first issued in 2013, accommodates the heavier weight of an invitation, as well as other mailings such as oversized cards or small gifts that require extra postage. The stamp highlights the words “Yes, I Do” nestled in a bouquet of flowers in the shape of a heart on a white background. A similarly designed companion stamp, Where Dreams Blossom — a Forever® stamp first issued in 2013 — is also available for response cards, save-the-date notices, thank-you notes, and other correspondence. The stamp artwork was designed by Michael Osborne under the direction of Ethel Kessler. The words “two ounce” on this stamp indicate its usage value. Like a Forever® stamp, this stamp will always be valid for the rate printed on it. The initial price and value for this stamp is 71 cents.

71¢ Yes, I Do Stamp
Cancellation Services
8300 NE Underground Drive, Pillar 210
Kansas City, MO 64144-0001

There are five philatelic products for the Yes, I Do stamp issue:

589410, Digital Color Postmark Keepsake, $16.95.
589416, First-Day Cover, $1.15.
589421, Digital Color Postmark, $1.86.
589431, Stamp Deck Card, $0.95.
589432, Stamp Deck Card with Digital Color Postmark, $2.21.

Technical Specifications:

Issue: Yes, I Do Stamp
Item Number: 589400
Denomination & Type of Issue: Two Ounce Rate Non-Denominated, Mail-Use
Format: Pane of 20 (1 design)
Series: Weddings
Issue Date & City: June 1, 2015, Kansas City, MO 64108
Designer: Michael Osborne, Palo Alto, CA
Art Director: Ethel Kessler, Bethesda, MD
Typographer: Michael Osborne, Palo Alto, CA
Artist: Michael Osborne, Palo Alto, CA
Modeler: Joseph Sheeran
Manufacturing Process: Microprint, Offset
Printer: Ashton Potter (USA) Ltd. (APU)
Printed at: Williamsville, NY
Press Type: Muller A76
Stamps per Pane: 20
Print Quantity: 15 million stamps
Paper Type: Nonphosphored Type III, Block Tag applied
Adhesive Type: Pressure-sensitive
Processed at: Ashton Potter (USA) Ltd. (APU)
Colors: Black, Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, PMS 032 C Red
Stamp Orientation: Horizontal
Image Area (w x h): 1.42 x 0.84 in./36.07 x 21.34 mm
Overall Size (w x h): 1.56 x 0.98 in./39.62 x 24.89 mm
Full Pane Size (w x h): 7.24 x 5.95 in./183.90 x 151.13 mm
Press Sheet Size (w x h): n/a
Plate Size: 240 stamps per revolution
Plate Numbers: “P” followed by five (5) single digits
Marginal Markings: Front: Plate numbers in four corners of pane
Back: © 2012 USPS • USPS logo • Plate position diagram • Barcode (589400) in upper right and lower left corners of pane • Promotional text

From the USPS May 26th:
The Weddings series’ Yes, I Do stamp, issued in 2013, accommodates the heavier weight of an invitation, as well as other mailings such as oversized cards or small gifts that require extra postage. The stamp highlights the words “Yes, I Do” nestled in a bouquet of flowers in the shape of a heart on a white background. A similarly designed companion stamp, Where Dreams Blossom — a Forever stamp first issued in 2013 — is available for response cards, save-the-date notices, thank-you notes, and other correspondence. The stamp artwork was designed by Michael Osborne of Palo Alto, CA, under the direction of Ethel Kessler of Bethesda, MD. The words “TWO OUNCE” on this stamp indicate its usage value. These Forever stamps will always be equal in value to the applicable price for the price category printed on them, at the time of use. The initial price and value for this stamp is 71 cents effective May 31.

From the USPS May 18th:
The Weddings series’s Yes, I Do stamp, first issued in 2013, accommodates the heavier weight of an invitation, as well as other mailings such as oversized cards or small gifts that require extra postage. The stamp highlights the words “Yes, I Do” nestled in a bouquet of flowers in the shape of a heart on a white background. A similarly designed companion stamp, Where Dreams Blossom—a Forever stamp first issued in 2013—is available for response cards, save-the-date notices, thank-you notes, and other correspondence. The stamp artwork was designed by Michael Osborne under the direction of Ethel Kessler. The words “two ounce” on this stamp indicate its usage value. These Forever stamps will always be equal in value to the applicable price for the price category printed on them, at the time of use. The initial price and value for this stamp is 71 cents.

The first day of issue is June 1, without a ceremony. The city is Kansas City (Stamp Fulfillment Services).

71¢ Vintage Tulip (U.S. 2015)

Posted on May 15, 2015 by VSC

Updated June 1st: First day postmarks:
Standard 4-bar FIRST DAY OF ISSUE
Digital Color Postmark: from the Postal Bulletin May 27th:
On June 1, 2015, in Kansas City, MO, the U.S. Postal Service® will reissue the Vintage Tulip, two ounce rate mail-use stamp, (Non-denominated priced at 71 cents), in one design, in a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) pane of 20 stamps (Item 589500).

The stamp will go on sale nationwide June 1, 2015.

In 2015, the U.S. Postal Service issued Vintage Tulip, an all-occasion stamp available to accommodate the weight of heavy invitations for weddings and other celebrations, greeting cards, and mailings such as small gifts that require extra postage. The words “Two Ounce” on this stamp indicate its usage value. Like a Forever® stamp, this stamp will always be valid for the rate printed on it. The initial price and value for this stamp is 71 cents. The stamp art features an elaborate floral line drawing of a tulip similar to the design of the 2015 Vintage Rose Forever stamp. Jeanne Greco designed these stamps using details from drawings originally created by naturalist artist Maria Sibylla Merian (1647–1717). A small, deep crimson heart on both stamps adds a dash of color to the designs and makes them a natural pair. These stamps were printed using the intaglio printing technique. Vintage Tulip and Vintage Rose are the latest additions to the popular Weddings series. Greg Breeding was the art director.

71¢ Vintage Tulip Stamp
Cancellation Services
8300 NE Underground Drive, Pillar 210
Kansas City, MO 64144-0001

There are five philatelic products for the Vintage Tulip stamp issue:

589510, Digital Color Postmark Keepsake, $16.95.
589516, First-Day Cover, $1.15.
589521, Digital Color Postmark, $1.86.
589531, Stamp Deck Card, $0.95.
589532, Stamp Deck Card with Digital Color Postmark, $2.21.

Technical Specifications:

Issue: Vintage Tulip Stamp
Item Number: 589500
Denomination & Type of Issue: Two Ounce Rate Non-Denominated, Mail-Use
Format: Pane of 20 (1 design)
Series: Weddings
Issue Date & City: June 1, 2015, Kansas City, MO 64108
Designer: Jeanne Greco, New York, NY
Art Director: Greg Breeding, Charlottesville, VA
Typographer: Greg Breeding, Charlottesville, VA
Modeler: Donald Woo
Manufacturing Process: Intaglio, Offset
Printer: Banknote Corporation of America/SSP
Printed at: Browns Summit, NC
Press Type: Alprinta 74
Stamps per Pane: 20
Print Quantity: 15 million stamps
Paper Type: Phosphor Tagged Paper, Overall
Adhesive Type: Pressure-sensitive
Processed at: Banknote Corporation of America, Browns Summit SC
Colors: PMS 433, PMS 207 (Intaglio)
Stamp Orientation: Vertical
Image Area (w x h): 0.77 x 1.05 in./19.56 x 26.67 mm
Overall Size (w x h): 0.91x 1.19 in./23.11 x 30.22 mm
Full Pane Size (w x h): 5.55 x 5.76 in./140.97 x 146.30 mm
Press Sheets Size (w x h): 16.65 x 23.04 in./422.91 x 585.22 mm
Plate Size: 240 stamps per revolution
Plate Numbers: “S” followed by two (2) single digits
Marginal Markings: Front: Plate numbers in four corners of pane
Back: © 2014 USPS • USPS logo • Plate position diagram • Barcode (589500) in upper right and lower left corners of pane • Promotional text

From the USPS May 26th:
In 2015, the Postal Service issues Vintage Tulip, an all-occasion stamp available to accommodate the weight of heavy invitations for weddings and other celebrations, greeting cards, and mailings such as small gifts that require extra postage. The words “TWO OUNCE” on this stamp indicate its usage value. These Forever stamps will always be equal in value to the applicable price for the price category printed on them, at the time of use. The initial price and value for this stamp is 71 cents effective May 31. The stamp art features an elaborate floral line drawing of a tulip similar to the design of the 2015 Vintage Rose Forever stamp. Jeanne Greco designed these stamps using details from drawings originally created by naturalist artist Maria Sibylla Merian (1647–1717). A small, deep crimson heart on both stamps adds a dash of color to the designs and makes them a natural pair. These stamps were printed using the intaglio printing technique. Vintage Tulip and Vintage Rose are the latest additions to the popular Weddings series. Greg Breeding was the art director.

From the USPS May 18th:
In 2015, the U.S. Postal Service issues Vintage Tulip, an all-occasion stamp available to accommodate the weight of heavy invitations for weddings and other celebrations, greeting cards, and mailings such as small gifts that require extra postage. The words “Two Ounce” on this stamp indicate its usage value. These Forever stamps will always be equal in value to the applicable price for the price category printed on them, at the time of use. The initial price and value for this stamp is 71 cents. The stamp art features an elaborate floral line drawing of a tulip similar to the design of the 2015 Vintage Rose Forever stamp. Jeanne Greco designed these stamps using details from drawings originally created by naturalist artist Maria Sibylla Merian (1647–1717). A small, deep crimson heart on both stamps adds a dash of color to the designs and makes them a natural pair. These stamps were printed using the intaglio printing technique. Vintage Tulip and Vintage Rose are the latest additions to the popular Weddings series. Greg Breeding was the art director.

The first day of issue is June 1, without a ceremony. The city is Kansas City (Stamp Fulfillment Services).

Coastal Birds (U.S. 2015)

Posted on May 15, 2015 by VSC

Updated June 1st: First day postmarks:
Standard 4-bar FIRST DAY OF ISSUE
Digital Color Postmark:

from the Postal Bulletin May 27th:
On June 1, 2015, in Kansas City, MO, the U.S. Postal Service® will issue the Coastal Birds Postcard Rate stamps (non-denominated priced at 35 cents), in four designs, in a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) coil of 100 stamps (Item 783500) produced by Ashton Potter, and also a pane of 20 stamps (Item 117600) produced by Sennett Security Printers.

The stamps will go on sale nationwide June 1, 2015.

With the release of the Coastal Birds postcard stamps, the U.S. Postal Service celebrates four eye-catching birds: the red knot (Calidris canutus), king eider (Somateria spectabilis), roseate spoonbill (Platalea ajaja), and magnificent frigatebird (Fregata magnificens). The stamps feature highly stylized, digital portraits of each bird. The word “POSTCARD” on the stamps indicates their usage value. Like Forever® stamps, these stamps will always be valid for the rate printed on them. The initial price and value for these stamps is 35 cents. Art director Greg Breeding designed the stamps with artwork by Tyler Lang.

35¢ Coastal Birds Stamps
Cancellation Services
8300 NE Underground Drive, Pillar 210
Kansas City, MO 64144-0001

There are two philatelic products for the Coastal Birds PSA coil of 100 stamps issue:

783516, First-Day Cover, 2 of same bird (set of 4), on each, $4.56.
783521, Digital Color Postmark, 2 of same bird (set of 4), $7.40.

There are seven philatelic products for the Coastal Birds pane of 20 stamps issue:

117606, Press Sheet with Die-cut, $70.00 (print quantity 250).
117608, Press Sheet without Die-cut, $70.00 (print quantity 500).
117610, Digital Color Postmark Keepsake, $14.95.
117616, First-Day Cover, 2 of same bird (set of 4), $4.56.
117621, Digital Color Postmark, 2 of same bird (set of 4), $7.40.
117631, Stamp Deck Card, $0.95.
117632, Stamp Deck Card with Digital Color Postmark, random 2 of same bird, $2.20.

Technical Specifications:

Issue: Coastal Birds Stamps (coil)
Item Number: 783500
Denomination & Type of Issue: Postcard Rate Non-Denominated, Mail-Use
Format: Coil of 100 (4 designs)
Series: N/A
Issue Date & City: June 1, 2015, Kansas City, MO 64108
Art Director: Greg Breeding, Charlottesville, VA
Designer: Greg Breeding, Charlottesville, VA
Typographer: Greg Breeding, Charlottesville, VA
Artist: Tyler Lang, Portland, OR
Modeler: Joseph Sheeran
Manufacturing Process: Offset, Microprint
Printer: Ashton Potter (USA) Ltd. (APU)
Printed at: Williamsville, NY
Press Type: Muller A76
Stamps per Coil: 100
Print Quantity: 600 million stamps
Paper Type: Nonphosphored Type III, Phosphor Tag applied
Adhesive Type: Pressure-sensitive
Processed at: Ashton Potter (USA) Ltd. (APU)
Colors: Black, Cyan, Magenta, Yellow
Stamp Orientation: Vertical
Image Area (w x h): 0.70 x 0.84 in./17.88 x 21.34 mm
Stamp Size (w x h): 0.84 x 0.98 in./21.43 x 24.89 mm
Coil Size (w x h): 84.38 x 0.98 in/2143.13 x 24.89 mm
Plate Size: 768 stamps per revolution
Plate Numbers: “P” followed by four (4) single digits
Coil Number Frequency: Plate numbers located under first stamp of impression

Technical Specifications:

Issue: Coastal Birds Stamps (pane)
Item Number: 117600
Denomination & Type of Issue: Postcard Rate Non-Denominated, Mail-Use
Format: Pane of 20 (4 designs)
Series: N/A
Issue Date & City: June 1, 2015, Kansas City, MO 64108
Designer: Greg Breeding, Charlottesville, VA
Art Director: Greg Breeding, Charlottesville, VA
Typographer: Greg Breeding, Charlottesville, VA
Artist: Tyler Lang, Portland, OR
Modeler: Donald Woo
Manufacturing Process: Microprint, Offset
Printer: Banknote Corporation of America/SSP
Printed at: Browns Summit, NC
Press Type: Alprinta &$
Stamps per Pane: 20
Print Quantity: 200 million stamps
Paper Type: Phosphor Tagged Paper, Overall
Adhesive Type: Pressure-sensitive
Processed at: Banknote Corporation of America, Browns Summit SC
Colors: Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black
Stamp Orientation: Vertical
Image Area (w x h): 0.73 x 0.84 in./18.54 x 21.33 mm
Overall Size (w x h): 0..87 x 0.98 in./22.10 x 24.89 mm
Full Pane Size (w x h): 5.3 x 4.88 in./134.62 x 123.95 mm
Press Sheets Size (w x h): 10.6 x 22.4 in./269.24 x 619.76 mm
Plate Size: 200 stamps per revolution
Plate Numbers: “S” followed by four (4) single digits
Marginal Markings: Front: Plate numbers in four corners of pane
Back: © 2015 USPS • USPS logo • Plate position diagram • Barcode (117600) in upper right and lower left corners of pane • Promotional text

From the USPS May 26th:
With the release of the Coastal Birds postcard stamps, the U.S. Postal Service celebrates four eye-catching birds: the red knot (Calidris canutus), king eider (Somateria spectabilis), roseate spoonbill (Platalea ajaja), and magnificent frigatebird (Fregata magnificens). The stamps feature highly stylized, digital portraits of each bird. These Forever stamps will always be equal in value to the applicable price for the price category printed on them at the time of use. The initial price and value for these stamps is 35 cents. The Coastal Birds stamps feature the art of illustrator Tyler Lang of Portland, OR. Greg Breeding of Charlottesville, VA, was the art director.

The word “POSTCARD” on the stamps indicates the usage value. The postcard price is effective May 31.

Updated May 18th, from the USPS:
With the release of the Coastal Birds postcard stamps, the U.S. Postal Service celebrates four eye-catching birds: the red knot (Calidris canutus), king eider (Somateria spectabilis), roseate spoonbill (Platalea ajaja), and magnificent frigatebird (Fregata magnificens). The stamps feature highly stylized, digital portraits of each bird. The word “POSTCARD” on the stamps indicates their usage value. These Forever stamps will always be equal in value to the applicable price for the price category printed on them, at the time of use. The initial price and value for these stamps is 35 cents. Art director Greg Breeding designed the stamps with artwork by Tyler Lang.

The first day of issue is June1, without a ceremony. The city is Kansas City (Stamp Fulfillment Services).

Penguins (U.S. 2015)

Posted on May 15, 2015 by VSC

Updated June 1st: First day postmarks:
Standard 4-bar FIRST DAY OF ISSUE
Digital Color Postmark:

from the Postal Bulletin May 27th:
On June 1, 2015, in Kansas City, MO, the U.S. Postal Service® will issue the Penguins additional ounce rate stamp, (Non-denominated priced at 22 cents), in one design, in a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) coil of 100 stamps (Item 786200) and also a pane of 20 stamps (Item 117700).

The stamp will go on sale nationwide June 1, 2015.

This stamp from the U.S. Postal Service pays tribute to the majestic emperor penguin (Aptenodytes forsteri). Largest of the penguin species, the emperor stands over three feet tall and can weigh more than 80 pounds. Emperor penguins dive beyond 1,500 feet — deeper than any other bird. The stamp art is a stylized drawing of a pair of emperor penguins on a cool green background. The pop of orange and yellow on the birds’ beaks and ear patches lends a regal look to the aptly named emperors. Art director Carl Herrman designed the stamp, which was illustrated by Nancy Stahl. The words “ADDITIONAL OUNCE” on this stamp indicate its usage value. Like a Forever® stamp, this stamp will always be valid for the rate printed on it. The initial price and value for this stamp is 22 cents.

22¢ Penguins Stamp
Cancellation Services
8300 NE Underground Drive, Pillar 210
Kanas City, MO 64144-0001

There are two philatelic products for the Penguins PSA coil of 100 stamps issue:

786216, First-Day Cover, (plus 1 Winter Fun Random), $1.15.
786221, Digital Color Postmark (plus 1 Winter Fun Random), $1.86.

There are seven philatelic products for the Penguins pane of 20 stamps issue:

117706, Press Sheet with Die-cut, $44.00 (print quantity 250).
117708, Press Sheet without Die-cut, $44.00 (print quantity 500).
117710, Digital Color Postmark Keepsake, $6.95.
117716, First-Day Cover, (plus 1 Winter Fun random), $1.15.
117721, Digital Color Postmark, (plus 1 Winter Fun random), $1.86.
117731, Stamp Deck Card, $0.95.
117732, Stamp Deck Card with Digital Color Postmark, (plus 1 Winter Fun random), $2.21.

Technical Specifications:

Issue: Penguins Stamp (coil)
Item Number: 786200
Denomination & Type of Issue: Additional Ounce Rate Non-Denominated, Mail-Use
Format: Coil of 100 (1 design)
Series: N/A
Issue Date & City: June 1, 2015, Kansas City, MO 64108
Art Director: Carl T. Herman, Carlsbad, CA
Designer: Carl T. Herman, Carlsbad, CA
Typographer: Carl T. Herman, Carlsbad, CA
Artist: Nancy Stahl, New York, NY
Modeler: Donald Woo
Manufacturing Process: Offset, Microprint
Printer: Banknote Corporation of America/SSP
Printed at: Browns Summit, NC
Press Type: Alprinta 74
Stamps per Coil: 100
Print Quantity: 200 million stamps
Paper Type: Phosphor Tagged Paper, Overall
Adhesive Type: Pressure-sensitive
Processed at: Banknote Corporation of America, Browns Summit, NC
Colors: Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black
Stamp Orientation: Vertical
Image Area (w x h): 0.73 x 0.84 in./18.54 x 21.33 mm
Stamp Size (w x h): 0.87 x 0.98 in./22.09 x 24.89 mm
Plate Size: 775 stamps per revolution
Plate Numbers: “S” followed by four (4) single digits
Coil Number Frequency: Plate numbers every 31st stamp below stamp image

Technical Specifications:

Issue: Penguins Stamp (pane)
Item Number: 117700
Denomination & Type of Issue: Additional Ounce Rate Non-Denominated, Mail-Use
Format: Pane of 20 (1 design)
Series: N/A
Issue Date & City: June 1, 2015, Kansas City, MO 64108
Designer: Carl T. Herrman, Carlsbad, CA
Art Director: Carl T. Herrman, Carlsbad, CA
Typographer: Carl T. Herrman, Carlsbad, CA
Artist: Nancy Stahl, New York, NY
Modeler: Donald Woo
Manufacturing Process: Microprint, Offset
Printer: Banknote Corporation of America/SSP
Printed at: Browns Summit, NC
Press Type: Alprinta 74
Stamps per Pane: 20
Print Quantity: 120 million stamps
Paper Type: Phosphor Tagged Paper, Overall
Adhesive Type: Pressure-sensitive
Processed at: Banknote Corporation of America, Browns Summit SC
Colors: Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black
Stamp Orientation: Vertical
Image Area (w x h): 0.73 x 0.84 in./18.54 x 21.33 mm
Overall Size (w x h): 0.87 x 0.98 in./22.10 x 24.89 mm
Full Pane Size (w x h): 5.35 x 4.93 in./135.89 x 125.22 mm
Press Sheets Size (w x h): 10.6 x 24.4 in./269.24 x 619.76 mm
Plate Size: 200 stamps per revolution
Plate Numbers: “S” followed by four (4) single digits
Marginal Markings: Front: Plate numbers in four corners of pane
Back: © 2015 USPS • USPS logo • Plate position diagram • Barcode (117700) in upper right and lower left corners of pane • Promotional text

From the USPS May 26th:

This additional ounce stamp pays tribute to the majestic emperor penguin (Aptenodytes forsteri). Largest of the penguin species, the emperor stands over 3 feet tall and can weigh more than 80 pounds. Emperor penguins dive beyond 1,500 feet — deeper than any other bird. The stamp art is a stylized drawing of a pair of emperor penguins on a cool green background. The pop of orange and yellow on the birds’ beaks and ear patches lends a regal look to the aptly named emperors. Art director Carl Herrman of Carlsbad, CA, designed the stamp, illustrated by Nancy Stahl of New York City. The words “ADDITIONAL OUNCE” on this stamp indicate its usage value. These Forever stamps will always be equal in value to the applicable price for the price category at the time of use. The initial price and value for this stamp is 22 cents, effective May 31.

From the USPS May 18th:
This stamp from the U.S. Postal Service pays tribute to the majestic emperor penguin (Aptenodytes forsteri). Largest of the penguin species, the emperor stands over three feet tall and can weigh more than 80 pounds. Emperor penguins dive beyond 1,500 feet—deeper than any other bird. The stamp art is a stylized drawing of a pair of emperor penguins on a cool green background. The pop of orange and yellow on the birds’ beaks and ear patches lends a regal look to the aptly named emperors. Art director Carl Herrman designed the stamp, illustrated by Nancy Stahl. The words “ADDITIONAL OUNCE” on this stamp indicate its usage value. These Forever stamps will always be equal in value to the applicable price for the price category printed on the at the time of use. The initial price and value for this stamp is 22 cents.

The first day of issue is June 1, without a ceremony. The city is Kansas City (Stamp Fulfillment Services).

Eastern Tiger Swallowtail (U.S. 2015)

Posted on May 15, 2015 by VSC

Updated June 1st: First day postmarks:
Standard 4-bar FIRST DAY OF ISSUE
Digital Color Postmark:

from the Postal Bulletin May 27th:
On June 1, 2015, in Kansas City, MO, the U.S. Postal Service® will issue the Eastern Tiger Swallowtail Non-machineable Surcharge Rate, (Non-denominated priced at 71 cents), in one design, in a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) pane of 20 stamps (Item 117800).

The stamp will go on sale nationwide June 1, 2015.

The U.S. Postal Service celebrates the Eastern Tiger Swallowtail on its fifth butterfly stamp issuance for greeting card envelopes that require additional postage. The stamp art is a colorful, highly stylized depiction of the butterfly. The words “NON-MACHINEABLE SURCHARGE” on the stamp indicate its usage value. Like a Forever® stamp, this stamp will always be valid for the rate printed on it. The initial price and value for this stamp is 71 cents. Named for the black “tiger” stripes along the upper surfaces of its wings, the Eastern Tiger Swallowtail is easily spotted. Abundant from southern New England to Florida and west to the Great Plains and central Texas, the Eastern Tiger Swallowtail is a frequent visitor to gardens, woodlands, and riverbeds. Tom Engeman was the artist. Art director Derry Noyes designed the stamp.

71¢ Eastern Tiger Swallowtail Stamp
Cancellation Services
8300 NE Underground Drive, Pillar 210
Kansas City, MO 64144-0001

There are seven philatelic products for the Eastern Tiger Swallowtail stamp issue:

117806, Press Sheet with Die-cut, $85.20 (print quantity 250).
117808, Press Sheet without Die-cut, $85.20 (print quantity 500).
117810, Digital Color Postmark Keepsake, $16.95.
117816, First-Day Cover, $1.15.
117821, Digital Color Postmark, $1.86.
117831, Stamp Deck Card, $0.95.
117832, Stamp Deck Card with Digital Color Postmark, $2.21.

Technical Specifications:

Issue: Eastern Tiger Swallowtail Stamp
Item Number: 117800
Denomination & Type of Issue: Non-Machineable Surcharge Rate, Mail-Use
Format: Pane of 20 (1 design)
Series: N/A
Issue Date & City: June 1, 2015, Kansas City, MO 64108
Designer: Derry Noyes, Washington, DC
Art Director: Derry Noyes, Washington, DC
Typographer: Derry Noyes, Washington, DC
Artist: Tom Engeman, Frederick, MD
Modeler: Joseph Sheeran
Manufacturing Process: Offset, Microprint
Printer: Ashton Potter (USA) Ltd. (APU)
Printed at: Williamsville, NY
Press Type: Muller A76
Stamps per Pane: 20
Print Quantity: 100 million stamps
Paper Type: Nonphosphored Type III, Block Tag applied
Adhesive Type: Pressure-sensitive
Processed at: Ashton Potter (USA) Ltd. (APU)
Colors: Black, Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, PMS 2726C Purple
Stamp Orientation: Vertical
Image Area (w x h): 1.09 x 1.09 in./27.56 x 27.56 mm
Overall Size (w x h): 1.23 x 1.23 in./31.12 x 31.12 mm
Full Pane Size (w x h): 5.90 x 7.12 in./149.86 x 180.85 mm
Press Sheet Size (w x h): 11.80 x 21.36 in./299.72 x 542.54 mm
Plate Size: 240 stamps per revolution
Plate Numbers: “P” followed by five (5) single digits
Marginal Markings: Front: Plate numbers in four corners of pane
Back: © 2015 USPS • USPS logo • Plate position diagram • Barcode (117800) in upper right and lower left corners of pane • Promotional text

From the USPS May 26th:
The U.S. Postal Service celebrates the Eastern tiger swallowtail on its fifth butterfly stamp issuance for greeting card envelopes that require additional postage. The stamp art is a colorful, highly stylized depiction of the butterfly. The words “NON-MACHINEABLE SURCHARGE” on the stamp indicate its usage value. Non-machinable items require sorting by hand. This stamp also may be used for mailing items weighing up to 2-ounces.

These Forever stamps will always be equal in value to the applicable price for the price category printed on them, at the time of use. The initial price and value for this stamp is 71 cents, effective May 31. Named for the black “tiger” stripes along the upper surfaces of its wings, the Eastern tiger swallowtail is easily spotted. Abundant from southern New England to Florida and west to the Great Plains and central Texas, the Eastern tiger swallowtail is a frequent visitor to gardens, woodlands, and riverbeds. Tom Engeman of Frederick, MD, was the artist. Art director Derry Noyes of Washington, DC, designed the stamp.

[Note “This stamp also may be used for mailing items weighing up to 2-ounces.” in the above writeup. —LdeV]

From the USPS May 18th:
The U.S. Postal Service celebrates the Eastern tiger swallowtail on its fifth butterfly stamp issuance for greeting card envelopes that require additional postage. The stamp art is a colorful, highly stylized depiction of the butterfly. The words “NON-MACHINEABLE SURCHARGE” on the stamp indicate its usage value. These Forever stamps will always be equal in value to the applicable price for the price category printed on them, at the time of use. The initial price and value for this stamp is 71 cents. Named for the black “tiger” stripes along the upper surfaces of its wings, the Eastern tiger swallowtail is easily spotted. Abundant from southern New England to Florida and west to the Great Plains and central Texas, the Eastern tiger swallowtail is a frequent visitor to gardens, woodlands, and riverbeds. Tom Engeman was the artist. Art director Derry Noyes designed the stamp.

The first day of issue is June1, without a ceremony. The city is Kansas City (Stamp Fulfillment Services).

U.S. Scott Catalogue Update – May 2015

Posted on May 4, 2015 by VSC

4964 (49¢) Water Lily – Pale pink
4965 (49¢) Water Lily – Red
4966 (49¢) Water Lily – Purple
4967 (49¢) Water Lily – White
a. Block of 4, #4964-4967
b. Convertible booklet pane of 20, 5 each #4964-4967

4968 (49¢) Art by Martín Ramírez – Untitled (Horse and Rider with Trees)
4969 (49¢) Art by Martín Ramírez – Untitled (Man Riding Donkey)
4970 (49¢) Art by Martín Ramírez – Untitled (Train on Inclined Tracks)
4971 (49¢) Art by Martín Ramírez – Untitled (Deer)
4972 (49¢) Art by Martín Ramírez – Untitled (Tunnel with Cars and Buses)
a. Vert. strip of 5, #4968-4972

4973 (49¢) Soft Shield Fern lithographed coil stamp with Microprinted “USPS” and “2014” date
4974 (49¢) Autumn Fern lithographed coil stamp with Microprinted “USPS” and “2014” date
4975 (49¢) Goldie’s Wood Fern lithographed coil stamp with Microprinted “USPS” and “2014” date
4976 (49¢) Painted Fern lithographed coil stamp with Microprinted “USPS” and “2014” date
4977 (49¢) Fortune’s Holly Fern lithographed coil stamp with Microprinted “USPS” and “2014” date
a. Strip of 5, #4973-4977

4978 (49¢) From Me to You

Love Your Pet (Canada, 2015)

Posted on May 1, 2015 by VSC

[press release]
New stamps aim to promote awareness of responsible pet ownership

OTTAWA, May 1, 2015 /CNW/ – Canadians love their pets – including some 10 million cats, 5.5 million dogs and plenty of rodents, reptiles, birds and fish. Love Your Pet: Responsible Pet Ownership is a colourful new stamp series that offers reminders of the importance of spaying or neutering, regular visits to the veterinarian, proper nutrition, creating comfortable surroundings, and plenty of play, exercise and attention. Like the popular 2013 “Adopt-a-Pet” stamp set, this issue was produced with the guidance of the Canadian Federation of Humane Societies (CFHS).

“Companion animals enrich our lives and bring us joy and happiness on a daily basis. With this stamp issue, we hope to create broader awareness of what it takes to keep pets happy and healthy,” says Jim Phillips, Director of Stamp Services at Canada Post.

“These stamps artistically demonstrate some of the important ways that we can ensure that our companion animals receive the physical and emotional care they deserve,” says Barbara Cartwright, Chief Executive Officer, Canadian Federation of Humane Societies.

The animals in the bright, lighthearted artwork all show warmth and express personality in scenes where they are cared for responsibly. It’s a visually appealing and celebratory way of illustrating the pets in our lives, while reminding us about ways of keeping them safe, healthy and happy.

The stamps were designed by Lara Minja and illustrated by Genevieve Simms with a whimsical and colourful brushstroke-style. The stamps will be unveiled at the opening of National Animal Welfare Conference, which will be held from May 2-5, 2015, in Richmond, B.C.

About the stamps
The stamps are available in booklets of 10 measure 24 mm x 39.5 mm (vertical), 40 mm x 39.5 mm (vertical), 24 mm x 32 mm (vertical), and 24 mm x 24 mm with simulated perforations, while the souvenir sheet has 13+ perforations. They are printed by Lowe-Martin on Tullis Russell paper using lithography in six colours. The stamps are pressure sensitive. The Official First Day Cover will be cancelled in Richmond, B.C., the location of this year’s National Animal Welfare Conference. To download the image of the stamps, please click here. To purchase philatelic products, please visit canadapost.ca/shop.