APS Hires New Education Director

Posted on January 22, 2025 by VSC

[press release] [click on any of the pictures for larger versions]
APS Announces New Director of Education

The APS is pleased to announce the appointment of a new Director of Education, Dr. Tomalei Vess of Bellefonte, Pennsylvania.

“We are excited to welcome Tomalei to the team,” said APS Executive Director Scott English. “She brings her extensive experience and passion to help us expand our programs to educate and recruit collectors at all levels. We look forward to her leadership in shaping the future of education and engaging our philatelic community.”

Vess, who holds a PhD in biology from Duke University, has experience in both K-12 and university education, as well as museum education. That experience, in addition to her background in sales and entrepreneurship, will be crucial as she takes over the helm in Education.

In 2025, the department’s focus will be on the creation and launch of Stamp SCHOOL, a community engagement and learning platform established in memory of Stephen “Steve” Campbell. Vess will also be working to expand APS youth programs, develop new philatelic resources, and conduct outreach to stamp collectors of every level.

Joining Vess in establishing these programs is Sarah Aldrich, who was recently appointed as both the APS learning coordinator and one of the APRL’s digital projects assistants.

“Sarah and I are excited to learn from and collaborate with our membership, and beyond,” Vess said. “We are ready to create a vibrant space for philatelic education and engagement to sustain and grow the hobby.”

To contact the Education department, email education@stamps.org, or reach Vess directly at tvess@stamps.org.

Bard Is New First Days Editor

Posted on January 18, 2025 by VSC

[press release] [click on any of the pictures for larger versions]

The American First Day Cover Society, the only not-for-profit organization in the world dedicated to the stamp collecting specialty of first day covers, has named Anthony Bard of the United Kingdom as editor of its award-winning journal, First Days.

Tony is also the editor of The London Philatelist, the journal of the Royal Philatelic Society London, as well as the Scandinavian Collectors Club’s The Posthorn, Korean Philately and The Mayflower for the American Stamp Club of Great Britain. Like First Days, The Posthorn won large gold medals in 2024 Literature competitions.

“I confess to being an incurable philatelist,” he says. “I began as a stamp collector, became (and remained) a postal historian and was even briefly a producer of limited edition Great Britain first day covers.” He has been a fellow of the RPSL since 1990.

Before becoming a full-time postal historian in 2015, Tony owned food businesses (both human and pet). Even before that, however, he won The Royal’s Tapling Medal (left) for the best London Philatelist article in 2014, and his exhibits of the postal history of Jammu and Kashmir have won international gold medals. More recently, he has shown single-frame exhibits of Korean War postal history.

Tony lives in West Sussex, England, with his wife and two dogs. You can reach him at editor.firstdays@gmail or editor@afdcs.org.

First Days is published six times a year. The AFDCS also publishes handbooks and catalogues, and promotes the collecting of both modern and “classic” issues and cachets, as well as exhibiting FDCs. It offers awards for outstanding first day cover exhibits and annual contests for both serious FDC literature and the best FDC cachets of the past year. It is also a co-host of the annual Great American Stamp Show, which this year is August 14-17 in Schaumburg, Ill.

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, Wis., 54025-0057.

Massachusetts Museum Plans Busy Start To 2025

Posted on January 18, 2025 by VSC

Click on this picture for a larger, easier-to-read version

Boston 2026 Seeks 3 Million Stamps

Posted on January 18, 2025 by VSC

[press release] [click on any of the pictures for larger versions]
Three Million Stamps Needed!

Boston 2026 World Expo calls on all collectors to donate off-paper stamps to build its inventory for use in welcome packets and the youth and beginners’ areas during America’s next international philatelic exhibition.

Coordinating the collection process is Michael Lawson, Boston 2026 Chief Financial Officer, in association with the Spellman Museum of Stamps and Postal History. “World Stamp Show-NY 2016 collected roughly three million stamps for free giveaways in a variety of ways,” said Lawson. “We are again counting on the philatelic community to show their generosity and desire to promote the hobby by donating common, unwanted duplicates we all have an abundance of to our show.”

It may be hard to grasp that many stamps, but artificial intelligence can help. Google’s Gemini explained it this way. With an average thickness of 0.01 inches per stamp, a three million stamp stack would span 2,500 feet, nearly half a mile, or roughly the height of a 200-story building.

Donations of any quantity would be welcomed, mint and used, but all should be off-paper and sorted by US and non-US if possible. Any on-paper material is to be soaked before sending. Stamp clubs are especially encouraged to participate by holding a soaking/collection program with their members. Dealer stock, including hundreds of the same stamp, may also be sent. Any glassines and tongs sent are much appreciated. As a 501(c)3 organization, Boston 2026 donations may be tax-deductible to the donor.

Items are to be mailed to: Spellman Museum of Stamps and Postal History, Attn: Michael Lawson/Boston 2026, Regis College, 241 Wellesley Street Weston, MA 02493. Please include a note with an email address to receive confirmation of receipt.

Boston 2026 World Expo takes place May 23-30, 2026, at the Boston Convention & Exhibition Center. Full show details may be found at boston2026.org and on Twitter and Facebook. Sign up to be added to the Boston 2026 email list and receive updates when available.

Boston 2026’s Second Bulletin Available

Posted on January 18, 2025 by VSC

[press release] [click on any of the pictures for larger versions]
Boston 2026 Bulletin #2 Now Available

The second Boston 2026 bulletin detailing information about the show with emphasis on exhibit rules and registration has just been released and is available in electronic format on the show’s web site at boston2026.org.

The 44-page document includes the official IREX (Individual Regulations particular to Boston 2026) as required by the governing body of international exhibiting, the Fédération Internationale de Philatélie (FIP), having granted the show its Recognition.

Boston 2026 is not just one but several exhibitions taking place at the same time hosting the collective best of the world’s renowned exhibitors. The largest is the FIP Exhibition comprised of mostly competitive exhibits among 4,000 frames that are judged and vie for medal awards from bronze to large gold and special prizes, as will the Literature Class entrants.

A separate Polar Salon of 200 frames of both competitive exhibits and non-competitive displays will also take place along with a German-American Salon of 50 non-competitive frames. The annual 2026 APS Champion of Champions Competition rounds out the exhibitions.

Additional non-competitive displays add to the rarities, including a world-class Court of Honor along with institutional, ephemera and other invited exhibits.

Only electronic applications will be accepted for all exhibition types through the appropriate form. All will be online when the new Boston 2026 web site is unveiled in a few weeks.

Bulletin #2 additionally provides a timeline of show deadlines, information for societies and postal administrations, and includes two topical articles highlighting Boston area women and African Americans on stamps.

USPS Announces 2025 Inaugural Postmarks

Posted on January 17, 2025 by VSC

The USPS will offer two postmarks to commemorate the 2025 inauguration:The dimensions are 2.72″ x 1.26″ This postmark measures 3.38″ x 1.0″

The Inauguration Day postmarks will be available only from Cancellation Services in Kansas City:

Inauguration Day Postmarks
Cancellation Services
8300 NE Underground Drive, Pillar 210
Kansas City MO 64144-0001

Send your envelopes and cards to this address, with sufficient postage on each to meet the first-class rate (such as a Forever stamp, or a combination equaling or exceeding 73¢)

Updated January 21:

I was surprised at the paucity of postmarks, given that PMG Louis DeJoy [right] was a major donor to President Trump’s first presidential campaign and was picked by the Postal Service’s Board of Governors, all of whom were appointed by Trump. But the Washington Post reports that not only are they no longer friendly, but the Trump team is looking to oust DeJoy. A key reason, WaPo says, was the postal agency’s support of voting-by-mail in the 2020 election. [You made need a subscription to read the full story.] —LdeV

Canada’s 2025 Stamp Program

Posted on January 16, 2025 by VSC

The 2025 program overview story is here.

Updated November 13. Not all these dates and issues have been confirmed.

Date
EKU Jan. 13
Jan. 31
Mar. 3
March 10
March 21
April 4
April 28
May 30
June 20
July 17
Aug 27
Sept 29
October 15
November 2
November 6
November 13
November 20

Subject
From Far and Wide definitives
Marie Joseph Angélique (Black History)
Peonies (two stamps + souvenir sheet)
Eid
Brian Mulroney
Blue Rodeo
CP Community Foundation: Giraffes
Places of Pride
Indigenous Leaders
Internment in Canada
Biodiversity: Fascinating Fungi
Truth & Reconciliation
Diwali
Sikh Soldiers Remembered
Christmas
Hanukkah
Graphic Novelists

Scott #
3477-3482
3484
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—

For all Canadian new issues:

[press release] [click on any of the pictures for larger versions]
Former Prime Minister Brian Mulroney and historic Canadian places of Pride among topics recognized in Canada’s 2025 stamps
Canada Post continues to share the stories of people and places that are meaningful to Canadians

OTTAWA – Canada Post has announced its 2025 stamp lineup, which includes influential figures and key milestones that have shaped Canadian history and culture. Here are some highlights of the 2025 program:

As part of a longstanding tradition of commemorating former Canadian prime ministers, Canada Post will pay tribute to the late Right Honourable Brian Mulroney, who served as the 18th prime minister of Canada from 1984 to 1993.
Commemorating places and events that set the stage for the evolution of 2SLGBTQIA+ rights, ahead of Pride Season in Canada.
The Black History Month stamp remembers Marie Joseph Angélique, an enslaved Black woman charged with arson in Montréal in 1734.
The second issue in a series showcasing Canadian graphic novelists and the fourth issue celebrating Indigenous leaders.
Shining a light on the dark history of civilian internment in Canada.
New stamps explore the importance of biodiversity with fascinating fungi.

The list also features still to be announced stamps recognizing cultural icons and other topics from these anticipated annual stamp series:

A fundraising stamp for the Canada Post Community Foundation, supporting children and youth across Canada.
The annual flower series will focus on peonies, perennial showstoppers known as the king of flowers.
Raising awareness about truth and reconciliation through new stamps to be issued around the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation, September 30, 2025.
The Remembrance Day issue honours Canadian war heroes who broke down barriers to serve their country.
Eid, Diwali, Hanukkah and Christmas stamps will mark these special occasions.

Canada Post takes pride in telling Canada’s stories through its iconic national stamp program. The independent Stamp Advisory Committee recommends the subjects for the annual program. Members rely on thoughtful input from groups and individuals to choose subjects that capture the country’s rich history and culture and reflect the shared values of Canadians.

[en Francais pour les médias d’information]
L’ancien premier ministre Brian Mulroney et des lieux de la Fierté historiques au Canada parmi les sujets figurant sur les timbres de 2025
Postes Canada poursuit sa tradition de raconter l’histoire de personnes et d’endroits significatifs pour la population canadienne.

OTTAWA – Postes Canada a annoncé aujourd’hui son programme de timbres poste de 2025, qui mettra en lumière des personnalités influentes et des moments importants qui ont façonné l’histoire et la culture du Canada. Voici les principaux sujets du programme :

Fidèle à sa longue tradition de commémorer les anciens premiers ministres canadiens, Postes Canada rendra hommage au très honorable Brian Mulroney, 18e premier ministre du Canada de 1984 à 1993.
En prévision de la saison de la Fierté au Canada, une émission célébrera des lieux et des événements où les droits de la communauté 2ELGBTQIA+ ont commencé à prendre forme.
Le timbre du Mois de l’histoire des Noirs salue Marie Joseph Angélique, esclave noire accusée d’incendie criminel à Montréal en 1734.
Seront publiées la deuxième émission d’une série mettant en vedette des artistes d’ici de romans graphiques et la quatrième émission célébrant des leaders autochtones.
Un timbre témoignera de la sombre histoire de l’internement de membres de la population civile au Canada.
Des timbres sur de fascinantes espèces de champignons exploreront l’importance de la biodiversité.

La liste comprend aussi des sujets de timbres qui n’ont pas encore été annoncés, qui rendront hommage à des icônes culturelles, ainsi que des timbres de séries annuelles toujours attendues :

Le timbre philanthropique de la Fondation communautaire de Postes Canada qui vient en aide aux enfants et aux jeunes partout au pays.
La série annuelle sur les fleurs, consacrée cette année à la pivoine, magnifique annuelle aussi désignée « le roi des fleurs ».
De nouveaux timbres pour la sensibilisation à la vérité et à la réconciliation, émis vers le 30 septembre 2025, Journée nationale de la vérité et de la réconciliation.
L’émission du jour du Souvenir en hommage à des héros de guerre du Canada qui ont surmonté des obstacles pour servir leur pays.
Les timbres de l’Aïd, de Diwali, de Hanoukka et de Noël.

Postes Canada est fière de raconter l’histoire de notre pays grâce à son programme national des timbres-poste. Le Comité consultatif sur les timbres-poste recommande les sujets du programme annuel. Il compte sur les commentaires éclairés de groupes et d’individus pour choisir des sujets qui reflètent l’histoire et la culture si riches du pays et les valeurs communes de la population canadienne.

Overview: Canada’s 2025 Stamp Program

Posted on January 16, 2025 by VSC

Announced January 16:

As part of a longstanding tradition of commemorating former Canadian prime ministers, Canada Post will pay tribute to the late Right Honourable Brian Mulroney, who served as the 18th prime minister of Canada from 1984 to 1993.
Commemorating places and events that set the stage for the evolution of 2SLGBTQIA+ rights, ahead of Pride Season in Canada.
The Black History Month stamp remembers Marie Joseph Angélique, an enslaved Black woman charged with arson in Montréal in 1734.
The second issue in a series showcasing Canadian graphic novelists and the fourth issue celebrating Indigenous leaders.
Shining a light on the dark history of civilian internment in Canada.
New stamps explore the importance of biodiversity with fascinating fungi.

The list also features still to be announced stamps recognizing cultural icons and other topics from these anticipated annual stamp series:

A fundraising stamp for the Canada Post Community Foundation, supporting children and youth across Canada.
The annual flower series will focus on peonies, perennial showstoppers known as the king of flowers.
Raising awareness about truth and reconciliation through new stamps to be issued around the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation, September 30, 2025.
The Remembrance Day issue honours Canadian war heroes who broke down barriers to serve their country.
Eid, Diwali, Hanukkah and Christmas stamps will mark these special occasions.

Fidèle à sa longue tradition de commémorer les anciens premiers ministres canadiens, Postes Canada rendra hommage au très honorable Brian Mulroney, 18e premier ministre du Canada de 1984 à 1993.
En prévision de la saison de la Fierté au Canada, une émission célébrera des lieux et des événements où les droits de la communauté 2ELGBTQIA+ ont commencé à prendre forme.
Le timbre du Mois de l’histoire des Noirs salue Marie Joseph Angélique, esclave noire accusée d’incendie criminel à Montréal en 1734.
Seront publiées la deuxième émission d’une série mettant en vedette des artistes d’ici de romans graphiques et la quatrième émission célébrant des leaders autochtones.
Un timbre témoignera de la sombre histoire de l’internement de membres de la population civile au Canada.
Des timbres sur de fascinantes espèces de champignons exploreront l’importance de la biodiversité.

La liste comprend aussi des sujets de timbres qui n’ont pas encore été annoncés, qui rendront hommage à des icônes culturelles, ainsi que des timbres de séries annuelles toujours attendues :

Le timbre philanthropique de la Fondation communautaire de Postes Canada qui vient en aide aux enfants et aux jeunes partout au pays.
La série annuelle sur les fleurs, consacrée cette année à la pivoine, magnifique annuelle aussi désignée « le roi des fleurs ».
De nouveaux timbres pour la sensibilisation à la vérité et à la réconciliation, émis vers le 30 septembre 2025, Journée nationale de la vérité et de la réconciliation.
L’émission du jour du Souvenir en hommage à des héros de guerre du Canada qui ont surmonté des obstacles pour servir leur pays.
Les timbres de l’Aïd, de Diwali, de Hanoukka et de Noël.

New Postal Rates for Canada (January 13, 2025)

Posted on January 13, 2025 by VSC

[press release] [click on any of the pictures for larger versions]
Price of a domestic stamp increases by 25 cents
New postage rates better align stamp prices with rising cost of providing letter mail service

OTTAWA, ON, Jan. 13, 2025 /CNW/ – As was announced in September, Canada Post is increasing postage rates effective today. For stamps purchased in a booklet, coil or pane, which represent most stamp sales, the rate increases by 25 cents, to $1.24 per stamp. The price of a single domestic stamp increases to $1.44, up from $1.15.

For the last decade, Canada Post has kept regulated letter mail rate increases to a minimum. Today’s rate change represents a one-time increase of roughly 25 per cent, which is required to better align stamp prices with the rising cost of providing letter mail service to all Canadians. Every year, there are fewer letters to deliver to more addresses, which adds significant cost pressures to the Corporation on top of continued inflationary pressures.

While rate increases are necessary, Canada Post understands that they mean additional costs for customers, and the Corporation works to minimize the impact. For the average Canadian household, the estimated impact of the rate increase is $2.26 per year. For the average Canadian small business, the estimated impact is $42.17 per year. (Estimate based on average annual spending of businesses and households.)

Regulatory approval of new rates
Changes to Canada Post’s regulated letter mail rates follow the regulatory process outlined in the Canada Post Corporation Act. The proposed rate changes were published in the Canada Gazette in September 2024 and received final regulatory approval in late November. As an organization funded by revenue from the sale of its products and services – not taxpayer dollars – rate changes are a reality.

Canadians can continue to use their Permanent™ stamps, which will always be accepted at the current domestic postage price. The rate changes also affect other products, including U.S., international letter-post and domestic Registered Mail™ items. Commercial letter mail price changes, also effective today, correspond to the regulated letter mail rate increase.

From Far and Wide Definitives (Canada 2025)

Posted on January 13, 2025 by VSC

A VSC Exclusive
By Danforth Guy

What’s not so old is new again.

The January 13^th rate increases require a few new issues from Canada Post, marking the first stamps of 2025 from the corporation. No stamps or their subjects had been announced until the issues appeared on the service’s website. The four stamps recycle denominated designs from the ‘From Far and Wide’ series of definitives issued in May 2024:

Point Prim Lighthouse, P.E.I., is reissued as a $1.44 stamp (up from $1.15) intended for single-stamp sales to cover domestic postage. For sale in coil strips of 4 and 10, and coils of 50. No booklet, as booklet stamps are priced lower (as P stamps at the rate of $1.24).
Thousand Islands National Park, Ontario — reissued as a $1.75 stamp (up from $1.40) for US-bound mail. For sale in coil strips of 4 and 10, and coils of 50.
Restigouche River, New Brunswick — reissued at $2.61 (up from $2.09) to cover the oversized rate. For sale in booklets of 6, coil strips of 4 and 10, and coils of 50.
Qarlinngua sea arch, Arctic Bay, Nunavut — reissued at $3.65 (up from $2.92) as the international rate (outside the US). For sale in booklets of 6, coil strips of 4 and 10, and coils of 50.

No souvenir sheet will be issued with the newly-priced stamps. Last May, the four denominated stamps were combined with five P-rate stamps on one souvenir sheet.

Because these four stamps do not have new designs, no first-day postmark or first day coers were offered.

Here are images of the other three stamps:

Updated May 3, 2025:
Here are the Scott catalogue numbers for this issue:
• 3477 $1.44 coil stamp
• 3478 $1.75 coil stamp
• 3479 $2.61 coil stamp
• 3481 $1.75 booklet stamp (booklet of 6)
• 3482 $2.61 booklet stamp (booklet of 6)