A stamp is a small piece of paper with an image, often of a person, place, or event, which is affixed to an envelope or package to indicate that it has been paid for the postage required for its transportation. Stamps can be issued by governments or postal authorities and come in various designs, denominations, and formats.
Here are some key aspects of stamps:
1. Postage Stamps: These are the most common type of stamps, used to pay for the cost of sending mail through the postal service.
2. Collectible Stamps: These are stamps that collectors seek out for their rarity, artistic value, or historical significance. They can be worth much more than their face value.
3. Special Stamps: These are issued for special occasions, holidays, anniversaries, or to celebrate specific events or achievements.
4. First-Day Covers: These are envelopes that have been postmarked on the day a new stamp is released. Collectors often look for first-day covers to accompany their stamp collections.
5. Perforations: Stamps are usually perforated, meaning they have small teeth that allow them to be torn from a sheet. However, some stamps are imperforate, which can also be valuable.
6. Self-Adhesive Stamps: Modern stamps often have a self-adhesive backing, making them easier to use without the need for a stamping machine.
7. Postal History: The study of stamps and their use in the postal system is known as postal history, which is a field of study within philately, the broader study of stamps and postal history.
8. Postal Services: Stamps are an essential part of postal services worldwide, helping to ensure that mail is properly and efficiently delivered.
The history of stamps dates back to the early 19th century when the British government introduced the first adhesive postage stamp in 1840, the Penny Black. Since then, stamps have become a popular collectible item and a significant part of postal culture.
