Nominations Open for FDC Writing Award

Posted on December 30, 2025 by VSC

Nominations Open for FDC Writing Award
For Works Published In 2025

Nominations will be accepted through May 30, 2026, for the Philip H. Ward Award for Excellence in First Day Cover Literature, presented annually by the American First Day Cover Society. All works published in 2025 are eligible.

All articles and published in First Days, the AFDCS journal, are automatically considered. Other articles and works may be submitted to the Ward Award Committee chair, Mark Goodson, 315 East Dewey Street, Ellettsville, IN 47429-1901, bgdsn@comcast.net, either as clippings or .pdf scans of the material as published.

The award is presented each year at Americover, the annual convention of the AFDCS, which will be held August 7-9, 2026, in conjunction with BALPEX. A complete list of past winners can be found at www.afdcs.org/Awards-&-Honors#phw

Past works honored by the AFDCS reflect a wide variety of sources, including journals of other organizations and books.

The award is named in honor of Philip H. Ward (1890-1963), the distinguished Philadelphia stamp collector, dealer and journalist who was a pioneer in the field of first day covers. The award was instituted by the AFDCS in 1964.

The American First Day Cover Society is a not-for-profit educational organization, established in 1955. In addition to First Days, the AFDCS also publishes handbooks and catalogues, and promotes the collecting of both modern and “classic” issues and cachets, as well as the exhibiting of FDCs.

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.

AFDCS Board Elects Society’s 2026 Officers

Posted on December 30, 2025 by VSC

The Board of Directors of the American First Day Cover Society has re-elected Lloyd de Vries of New Jersey as the organization’s president for calendar-year 2026. Others re-elected as AFDCS officers were Ralph Nafziger of Oregon, executive vice president; Walter Douglas George of Massachusetts, first vice president; and Mark Gereb of New Jersey, recording secretary. In addition, Eric Wile of North Carolina was elected as Treasurer, replacing Mark Thompson of Tennessee, who has retired.

They, along with the editor of the journal First Days, the executive secretary, the immediate past president, the general counsel and the chairs of the Education, Sales and Membership departments, comprise the organization’s executive committee.

The Board also chose Cynthia Scott of Indiana as its chair for 2026.

AFDCS officers and directors are not compensated nor reimbursed for their travel expenses.

The American First Day Cover Society is a not-for-profit educational organization. In addition to First Days, the AFDCS also publishes handbooks and catalogues, and promotes the collecting of both modern and “classic” issues and cachets, as well as exhibiting FDCs.

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.

Revised US First-Day Postmark Guidelines

Posted on December 27, 2025 by VSC

Nothing major, but in the December 27, 2025, issue of the Postal Bulletin, the entry for the 2026 Love stamps has slightly-revised guidelines for obtaining first-day postmarks by mail:
Change of language:

Traditional Black and White Postmarks:

Customers 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 envelopes (to themselves or others), and place them in a larger envelope and mail to the above address.

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.

Customers can also submit collectable paper items or memorabilia of their choice for a black and white cancellation. The request should include packaging large enough to accommodate their cancelled items along with sufficient postage affixed for the return of their postmarked item.

If the cancelled item is not mailable by First-Class, and return packaging with postage is not provided, the order must include a way to contact the customer for payment to return cancelled items. Payment for quantities greater than 50 cancels and/or postage for shipping must be submitted by check, money order, or credit card.

Digital Color Postmarks:

Only select stamp issues offer a digital color postmark. Digital color postmarks can only be affixed to paper products. Customers may submit #6 or #10 envelopes constructed of paper rated as “laser safe.” The Postal Service™ recommends envelopes of 80-pound Accent Opaque, acid-free, 9/16-inch side seams with no glue on the flap. The maximum size of all digital color postmarks is 2 inches (vertically) by 4 inches (horizontally). Allow sufficient space on the envelope to accommodate the postmark. Do not use self-adhesive labels for addresses on the envelope. Two test envelopes must be included. There is a 50-cent charge per postmark at the time of servicing. Customers must submit a check, money order, or credit card for payment.

The Postal Service reserves the right to not accept hand-painted and other cachet envelopes that are not compatible with our digital color postmark equipment. The Postal Service also reserves the right to substitute traditional black rubber postmarks if use of non-specified envelopes results in poor image quality or damage to equipment.

Customers must affix the stamps to the envelopes and address them to themselves or others for return through the mail. Or they may include an additional self-addressed return envelope, large enough to accommodate their canceled items, with sufficient postage affixed for return of their postmarked items.

All first-day postmarks:

After applying the first-day-of-issue postmark, the Postal Service will return the envelopes to the customer by U.S. Mail®.

Boston 2026 Sponsorships Available

Posted on December 23, 2025 by VSC

[press release] [click on any of the pictures for larger versions]
Boston 2026 Sponsorships Available

Boston 2026 World Expo is offering a variety of promotional sponsorships to individuals, organizations and businesses. Many involve signage opportunities, small and large, throughout the show floor, including the various regional pavilions and the Minuteman Club.

Event sponsorships are also available. These include the Palmares Award Banquet and the Vernissage show preview, where sponsors will gain the greatest exposure to the most prominent philatelists from around the world. Beer, wine, coffee, iced tea and water sponsorships at various show locations are available as well.

Logo opportunities abound, whether on award medal boxes, dinner menus or the show catalog cover. All sponsorships will receive prominent recognition on the show website, in the show catalog and on our social media.

Mark Butterline, Boston 2026 Executive Director, is coordinating all sponsorships and welcomes inquiries at Mark.Butterline@Boston2026.org. The current sponsorship list can be found on the Sponsorship webpage on www.Boston2026.org. Do note that the organizers are also open to sponsorship ideas beyond the preliminary list.

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 Facebook, X and Instagram. Sign up to be added to the Boston 2026 email list and receive updates when available.

Education Director Tomalei Vess Leaving APS

Posted on December 19, 2025 by VSC

Education Director Tomalei Vess will be leaving the American Philatelic Society, the nation’s largest stamp collecting organization, as of the end of the year. “This has been a hard decision, but after a lot of reflection, I’ve decided to step into a new opportunity,” she told The Virtual Stamp Club in email. “I have been invited to be a partner in a startup company with people I have known for years.”

She joined the APS in January 2025 with experience in K-12, university and museum education. She has a PhD in Biology.

She plans to help with the transition to the new Education Director. “I am invested in the future of the hobby, and the success of the APS,” she said.

“I am eternally grateful for this community of philatelists—people who pour wisdom, generosity, and kindness into APS, its mission, and the Education Department. That support has shaped me in lasting ways. Words cannot adequately describe my appreciation.”

Updated January 13^th: The APS has posted the job now. From the email newsletter:

The APS is looking for a Director of Education to join our team! This role is collaborative and hands-on, driving the organization’s education strategy and leading the development of philatelic educational content.

Click here for more information and to apply.

Boston 2026 Show Now Has Webpage on Tariff Ruling

Posted on December 12, 2025 by VSC

[press release] [click on any of the pictures for larger versions]
Boston 2026 Show Now Has Webpage on Tariff Ruling

The Boston 2026 web site has a new webpage dealing exclusively with the tariff issues around stamps and philatelic material, including a copy of the new ruling letter covering HTSUS 9704 that such items are again tariff free. See the Tariffs webpage on www.Boston2026.org.

In a correspondence dated October 30 from Andrew Langreich, Office of Trade Chief at U.S. Customs and Border Patrol, to Boston 2026 Executive Director Mark Butterline, the ruling confirms Harmonized Tariff Schedule HTSUS 9704 items (i.e., stamps and other philatelic material) are exempt from all tariffs and duties.

Boston 2026 previously hired Vantage Point Services, a customs broker, to ensure no difficulties are encountered by those needing importation assistance to the show. This advice was echoed by the Office of Trade Chief’s correspondence.

Youth Fellowship Applications Open (2026)

Posted on December 12, 2025 by VSC

[from official materials] [click on any of the pictures for larger versions]
YPLF Applications Now Open

Applications are now open for the 2026-2027 Young Philatelic Leaders Fellowship cohort!

The Young Philatelic Leaders Fellowship provides collectors aged 16 to 24 with the opportunity to learn from experts in the hobby and gain experience in their chosen track, fostering a lifelong connection with philately.

Applications will close on February 1, 2026.

And remember, APS members can still nominate a collector to participate in the program via the form linked here. The nomination period is open from now until January 15, 2026.

Canada Post Outlines 2026 Stamps

Posted on December 12, 2025 by VSC

[press release] [click on any of the pictures for larger versions]
2026 stamp lineup celebrates Canadian hip-hop, a sweet and timeless Quebec tradition, and much more
Canada Post captures the spirit of Canada through the people, events and stories featured in upcoming stamp issues

OTTAWA – Today Canada Post announced its 2026 stamp lineup, which features several milestones, people and cultural events that have helped define Canadian identity.

Here are some highlights:

Next year’s annual Black History Month stamp dives into the careers and achievements of Canadian hip-hop pioneers.
Colourful scenes from the temps des sucres (sugaring-off season) and Quebec’s cabanes à sucre (sugar shacks) – traditions that are part of the intangible heritage of Quebec – grace these stamps.
The popular Places of Pride issue returns, remembering significant events and locations across Canada that 2SLGBTQIA+ people fought to make their own.
A new stamp commemorates the 100th anniversary of The Royal Canadian Legion, known for its National Poppy Campaign and roughly 1,350 branches that serve as community hubs across the country.
A fascinating look at four wolf species found across Canada.
In response to a growing demand for blood donations, a new stamp raises awareness and encourages Canadians to give.
A set of three eerie jack-o’-lanterns help kick off October’s spooky season.

The list of new stamps also includes the continuation of several popular annual series with a fresh take for 2026:

New Truth and Reconciliation stamps commemorate Orange Shirt Day.
- The annual flower series showcases the delicate blooms of ornamental cherry blossoms.
- A stamp raising funds for the Canada Post Community Foundation aims to deliver a brighter future for children and youth.
- For Remembrance Day, a new design commemorates the service of Chinese Canadians sent on secret missions behind Japanese lines in Asia.
- Unique stamps celebrate the holidays of Eid, Diwali, Hanukkah and Christmas.
Individually, the stamps tell their own rich stories. Collectively, they paint a bigger picture of what makes Canada special. The independent Stamp Advisory Committee recommends subjects for the annual program, and members rely on thoughtful input from groups and individuals to choose subjects that capture important themes and histories that reflect the shared values of Canadians nationwide.

[en Francais pour les médias d’information]
Le programme des timbres-poste de 2026 célèbre le hip-hop canadien, une délicieuse tradition québécoise et plus encore
Postes Canada saisit l’esprit du pays à travers les personnes, les événements et les histoires dont parlent ses prochaines émissions de timbres.

OTTAWA – Aujourd’hui, Postes Canada a dévoilé son programme de timbres-poste de 2026 qui inclura des personnes, des moments marquants et des événements culturels qui aident à définir l’identité canadienne.

En voici les points saillants :
- Le timbre annuel du Mois de l’histoire des Noirs saluera la carrière et les réalisations de pionniers et pionnières du hip-hop canadien.
- Des timbres illustreront par des scènes colorées le temps des sucres et la cabane à sucre, des traditions inscrites au patrimoine immatériel du Québec.
- La très populaire émission de timbres sur les Lieux de la Fierté sera de retour, nous rappelant les événements et endroits importants au Canada pour lesquels la communauté 2ELGBTQIA+ s’est battue.
- Un nouveau timbre commémoratif soulignera le 100e anniversaire de la Légion royale canadienne, connue pour sa Campagne nationale du Coquelicot et ses quelque 1 350 filiales qui servent de carrefours communautaires à l’échelle du pays.
- Des timbres jetteront un regard fascinant sur quatre espèces de loups que l’on retrouve au Canada.
- Un nouveau timbre sensibilisera la population canadienne à la demande croissante pour les dons de sang et l’encouragera à se retrousser les manches.
- Un trio de citrouilles illuminées donnera le coup d’envoi à l’effrayante saison d’octobre.
La liste des nouveaux timbres comprend également la suite de plusieurs séries annuelles populaires, revampées pour 2026 :
- De nouveaux timbres sur la vérité et la réconciliation en commémoration de la Journée du chandail orange.
- Les délicates fleurs de cerisiers ornementaux pour la série annuelle sur les fleurs.
- Un timbre philanthropique pour la Fondation communautaire de Postes Canada dont l’objectif est d’offrir un avenir meilleur aux enfants et aux jeunes du pays.
- Pour le jour du Souvenir, un timbre commémoratif au sujet du service des Canadiens d’origine chinoise envoyés en mission secrète derrière les lignes japonaises en Asie.
- Des vignettes uniques pour célébrer l’Aïd, Diwali, Hanoukka et Noël.
Individuellement, chaque timbre raconte une riche histoire. Ensemble, ils brossent le tableau de ce qui rend le Canada unique. Le Comité consultatif sur les timbres-poste, qui travaille de façon indépendante, recommande les sujets du programme annuel, en s’appuyant sur la contribution réfléchie de groupes et de particuliers pour choisir des histoires et des thèmes importants qui reflètent les valeurs de la population canadienne.

New APS Tech Director

Posted on December 12, 2025 by VSC

[press release] [click on any of the pictures for larger versions]
APS Welcomes New Director of Technology and Innovation

The APS is pleased to welcome its new Director of Technology and Innovation, Stephanie Katz. Stephanie is an interdisciplinary thinker and strategist with 15 years of experience managing digital projects, developing data analytics dashboards, and leading website search engine optimization (SEO) initiatives. Her career spans roles with the federal government, museums and cultural organizations, and a marketing agency serving Fortune 500 clients. Most recently, she worked for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Office of Atmospheric Protection, where she led Microsoft 365 tool implementation and analytics efforts. Her contributions were recognized with multiple agency awards for driving impact, improving team efficiency, and leading the adoption of modernization efforts.

“We’re very excited for Stephanie to join us,” said Executive Director Kirk Gillis. “Her strong analytical skills and proven experience in digital strategy, SEO, and project management will be crucial as we embark on a comprehensive digital transformation of the APS.”

As a Fulbright Predoctoral Research Scholar, Stephanie supported a digital transformation initiative at Spain’s Prado Museum, one of the most visited museums in the world. Earlier in her career, she spent several years working internationally in South America as an educator and bilingual interpreter. She also served as an instructional designer for the University of Queensland’s satellite campus in northern Chile.

Stephanie holds a Bachelor of Arts from Hampshire College, a Master of Science in Arts Administration, Museum Leadership, and Marketing from Drexel University, and a certificate in Women’s Entrepreneurship from Cornell University. She is currently a volunteer with the U.S. Digital Response and contributes her time to several mission-driven organizations in her local community.

Welcome aboard, Stephanie!

USPS Announces 2026 Shipping Services Stamps

Posted on December 12, 2025 by VSC

[press release] [click on any of the pictures for larger versions]
2026 Priority Mail and Priority Mail Express Stamps Announced
First-day-of-issue dates and locations through March 2026 also revealed

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Postal Service today announced the Priority Mail and Priority Mail Express stamps it will release in 2026. There will be additional stamp subjects to be announced in the coming weeks and months. These designs are preliminary and may change.

Crab Nebula (Priority Mail)
This new Priority Mail stamp celebrates America’s continued exploration of deep space with a breathtaking image captured by NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope. One of the most frequently observed celestial bodies, the Crab Nebula is one of the brightest remnants of an exploded star in the night sky. Located 6,500 light-years away in the constellation Taurus, Webb captured this new Crab Nebula image in vivid infrared detail revealing previously unseen features that contribute to our broader understanding of stellar life cycles. Greg Breeding, an art director for USPS, designed the stamp using a photo courtesy of NASA. Upon favorable review by the Postal Regulatory Commission, the stamp will be denominated at the new Priority Mail Flat Rate Envelope rate and an issue date will be announced. (VSC page is here)

Galaxy Pair (Priority Mail Express)
This new Priority Mail Express stamp features another astounding image captured by NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope. The stamp features a composite image from the Webb and Hubble Space Telescopes titled Galaxy Pair. It reveals a view of two interacting galaxies, IC 2163 and NGC 2207, located approximately 80 million light-years from Earth, offering a glimpse into the dynamic processes that shape our universe. Greg Breeding, an art director for USPS, designed the stamp, using a photo courtesy of NASA. Upon favorable review by the Postal Regulatory Commission, the stamp will be denominated at the new Priority Mail Express Flat Rate Envelope rate and an issue date will be announced. (VSC page is here)