On its basic concept, there are three main classifications of stamps — special, commemorative, and definitive. Here is a brief description of each type:
1. Special
From the word itself, special stamps are used on special occasions only. In the United States, special stamps are those that are used when sending out Christmas cards or in any kind of special celebration.
Special stamps are physically larger in dimension just like the other type of stamps — commemorative. These kinds of stamps are sold at the regular rate. On the other hand, it can also be bought on sale if ever the stocks go low.
Letters, packages, or documents sent out with special stamps indicate they are first-rate posts in the United States.
2. Commemorative
To commemorate is to honor or remember the historical events that bear significant and notable values. For this reason, commemorative stamps were created. They were initially made to signify the commemoration of a particular time in history.
It was on 1983 when the first commemorative stamp was issued. These stamps were used to commemorate the unearthing of the “New World” by Christopher Columbus.
In most cases, commemorative stamps are not used to dominate the stamp industry. In fact, they were made in smaller measures. In the U.S., commemorative stamps were produced by the hundreds, usually 200 at the most. This goes to show that no reprints are being made available.
Physically, commemorative stamps are bigger than the other types of stamps. Just like the special stamps, commemorative stamps disburse the first-class rates.
3. Definitive
Definitive stamps are given out usually to pay everyday postage charges. Since they are very common, they are less attractive than the other types of stamps. In fact, there are instances wherein a single design in definitive stamps is utilized for many years.
Definitive stamps may not be as big as commemorative and special stamps but they are usually made in similar fundamental sizes.
However, in spite of their lack of creative designs, definitive stamps are far more appealing to philatelists than the other types of stamps. This is because definitive stamp’s single design used through the years tends to lead to a lot of accidental varieties.
Other types of stamps are airmail, certified mail stamp, customized stamp, late fee stamp, express mail, etc. Whatever type of stamp you choose, these items denote one thing — man’s value of his history.
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Tags: hobby, Stamp Collecting