Glossary

  • Philately - The collection and study of postage stamps and mail.
  • Philatelist - A person who collects and studies stamps and covers.
  • Essay - A trial design, or model, of a proposed postage stamp created for review by postal authorities.
  • Proof - A trial printing of a stamp used to inspect for defects, see which ink color looks best for that particular stamp, or present to dignitaries and government officials.
  • Stamp - Official evidence of payment for postal services, designed to be fixed to a piece of mail.
  • Pane - unit of stamps cut from a larger press sheet to sell to the public or assemble into a booklet.
  • Cover - An envelope, card, or wrapper that has been sent through the mail.
  • Postmark - A mark placed on or near a stamp to show the place and date of mailing.
  • Cancellation - A mark that obliterates a stamp so that it can’t be used again.