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Monthly e-Stamp Bulletin edited and published by Jeevan Jyoti from Dehradun.

Sunday, September 8, 2024

Rainbow September 2024

 


150 years of the UPU



Date of Issue : 30 August 2024


Dehradun September 2024 Vol. XVII Issue No. 201

Readers are requested to send reports of philatelic activities in their area for publication. Short write ups by the readers about, societies, publications and philatelic requirements can be sent for inclusion in this bulletin to the editor: j.jyoti9@gmail.com

Note- This bulletin is only for circulation among a limited group of philatelists without any commercial purpose. The bulletin will be sent to the readers only on request. Those who wish to receive it regularly please reply giving the name of your city/country with the subject SUBSCRIBE RAINBOW

Red Cross Samaritans


 Date of Issue: 30 August 2024

The Red Cross Samaritans are from diverse backgrounds, walks of life, and levels of education and occupation. Yet, united by a common altruistic spirit, they dedicate a significant portion of their leisure time to tending to the welfare of others.

 

Editorial….

 

Dear Reader,

I am pleased to present the September 2024 issue of Rainbow Stamp News. This is the 201st issue. Thanks for all your messages and greetings on the 200th issue of the magazine.  These days participation in International Philatelic exhibitions has become very expensive. For a Five frame exhibit, one has to spend more than Rs 70,000 and in One Frame class participation it is more than Rs 15000. Is it justified?? Are we purchasing the medals or actually winning the medals. It should not go unnoticed that these days in all the exhibitions generic medals are given so there is no difference in the medal quality of any medal level. The medal is mentioned only in the certificate. Moreover, the One Frame class exhibitors are the ones who are awarded only points and no medals are given in this class. It definitely gives the feeling to a participant that he/she is paying the price of the medal. What are the criteria of FIP in deciding the venue for the exhibitions. Sometimes these exhibitions are organized in those countries which are philatelically unpopular. In these countries cost of holding exhibitions is higher than the other places. Why the exhibitors should pay this high cost for participation in an exhibition ??? This not only includes the cost of the infrastructure of the exhibition but also the hotels booked for Jury members, National commissioners, and the other invitees. This is not the promotion of philately through exhibitions, where deserving philatelists are unable to participate. Moreover, philately is the hobby of the masses today not of the kings . Philately can only be promoted if equal opportunities are given to people of even small pockets. It is a point to ponder …..

This is all for this month. More in the next issue. Happy Collecting!

Contents     


·Editorial

· From the Desk of Naresh Agrawal

· Recent Indian Issues

· In The News

. Editor’s Mail Box

· Stories Behind Stamps

· Thematics

· Specialized Section

· Beginners’ Section

 . Book Review

· New Issues from Other Countries

· Philatelic Clubs and Society

· Blogs and Websites on Philately

· Current Philatelic Magazines and Newsletters


  

HAND WRITTEN LETTERS

PRESERVE SOCIAL HISTORY  : MOST IMPORTANT PHILATELIC STUFF

 


Writing this column is my best philatelic activity because it gives me love and appreciation of the readers. I am truly thankful to all of you and hope you all will keep  bestowing your love on me in the same way. 

Well, what to write for a particular column is also very interesting act for me because every month there are  several topics on which I want to share my views with you but select only one.  And sometimes I do feel  whether I  am able to express my views and feeling in appropriate manner or not.  I would request you all to overlook if any thing  written by me  is found not up to the mark or  not so well expressed.

This month there were several  topics in mind which I discussed with Mrs. Jeevan  Jyoti also  such as  Exorbitant exhibition fees for international exhibitions like for  FIP WSE URIGUAY 2025,  Tremendous increase in  number of exhibitions  being conducted  now a days etc..  but I am thankful to Mrs. Jyoti for sharing with me an article impressing upon the importance of hand written letters which touched my heart again as I had been thinking about it for long. Once I had written  an article impressing upon the philatelic importance of  the written text  of the letters we receive. For me the letter inside a postal cover or the  message written on the post card or the content of the telegram or the material sent through post  packed in side the cover is more important when it comes to the importance and significance of mail piece  is discussed. Though these are not so widely accepted as philatelic but these are certainly postal, if not philatelic.

 Well, friend, here firstly  I shall discuss with you the importance of hand written letters in our non postal philatelic life and also in philately. To start with, I would like to share with you my personal recent experience substantiating my above discussion. This year during Rakhi, I received a cover containing Rakhi from my sister who resides in Punjab. She sends me Rakhi every year well packed with all the  required contents like yellow rice ,Roli etc.. But the most important content used to be her hand written letter giving me all her blessings for my health and prosperity.  That letter is the best thing my sister gives me every year and believe me I wait for that. Though most of the contents of the letter remained same full of blessings for me and my family.  However, surprisingly, this year the cover did not contain that hand written letter giving me blessings. It was shocking for me and so for my wife.  After the Rakhi had been tied and rituals were over, my wife rang up to my sister and thanked her for Rakhi but very emotionally and forcefully she complained her  about the missing letter inside the cover and told that we were anxious to read her hand written words. While my sister felt sorry for this she gave reason for not sending the hand written letter full of blessing because she was not well those days and so failed to do so. 

So friends, that’s the impact of  hand written mail. Hand written mail piece is full of emotions, love and shows  personal and intense concern. These are the true depiction of social and cultural history. The outer contents of a postal cover have limitations but the content inside a cover  carries  vast scope  and are the reflection the true purpose of the carriage of that mail piece. It speaks about the real time status of individual, traders, industry, society and nation. 

Well, coming back to philately, let’s talk about Open philately and Social Philately which allows philatelist to collect   material like ephemera (pamphlets, hand bills, notices, tickets etc.) fiscals, photographs, Cinderella and letters  inside the mail piece or the contents of a mail piece etc.. Even sometimes the contents and  /or the text of the mail have philatelic importance also. The text speaks  a lot about mind set of individual, relationships, social sets up, culture, rituals and of course about trade practices, political scenario etc..  

Philately can help the memories of yesteryears preserved through letters as old and vintage letters are the biggest medium to help this cause. While we go through the old letters and try to rediscover them we find they have an unprecedented effect on the generations to come. For example, hand written letters by Mahatma Gandhi are not only collectable pieces but have impact on the generations to come. Hand written letters speak out the hidden personality, mind set and the circumstances of the writer. 

While surfing net, I came across  one site which gives ‘Letterly Customized Handwritten Letter Service’ in India . This site  for me is like putting life in the forgotten writing habits. Further, the hobby of making pen friends has  almost gone in to shell. To revive the habit of writing with hands, there is great need of reviving the hobby of making pen friends. Habit of holding  a pen in hands has become means obsolete, and no longer in practice. But believe me pen friends making is the one hobby or practice which is undoubtedly very helpful in reviving philately and also helps in preserving history in making. Just think that writing letters or messages with hands is a slow but a very thoughtful process where in every word written is intense, meaningful, thoughtful and conclusive because there is no  scope for erasing and rewriting.

 MY TRUE CONCERN IS TO GET THE CONTENTS OF A MAIL PIECE THE DESERVING PHILATELIC RECOGNITION

 In fact, after having said  all this my concern is to look in to the reasons why text on the letter of the contents inside the mail cover or packet are not considered philatelic. Why they are being ignored. We must not forget that it is the contents of the mail piece inside the cover which made the transmission or carriage of the  mail essential. Without these there would not have been any cover having stamps, cancellations, marks, addresses etc.. Hence, the strong basis for the existence of philately is the text letter or contents. And surprisingly these are ignored.

 I must thank FIP, other philatelic organizations and think tanks to slowly introduce and entertain some new philatelic classes  in recent past such as Social Philately, Open philately, First day cover class, Special Cover Class, Picture Post cards Class, Frugal philately, Fiscal Philately along with the so called traditional philatelic trends. The reason is to promote, spread and giving life to philately. Open philately and Social philately are the classes which allows a good lot of non philatelic items to be  included in the  exhibit. The items such as ephemera (pamphlets, hand bills, notices, tickets etc.) fiscals, photographs, Cinderella and letters  inside the mail piece or the contents of a mail piece etc. including the texted letters. These classes have to some extent given recognition to the text and the contents. 

I wonder why the texted letter of the content of the letter or the contents inside the mail cover or packet has not received any philatelic recognition. Why this  important part of  mail  has never been considered as a philatelic stuff. I just think if the mail of  the text hand written or typed message had not been there would not have been any need for sending if  written on the face of card or put in a cover which  has postal addresses, markings, stamps, cancellations etc.. In fact, philately starts from letter / message writing and sending it through postal system which requires it to be either packed in cover to save it and to maintain the secrecy of the matter/text. If such is the importance of this piece of card or paper why won’t it be given philatelic importance. 

Secondly when FIP or various other philatelic federations and organizations  are coming up with new classes in philately such Social philately, Open philately, Revenues, Maximaphily, Picture Post cards, Polar Class, First day Cover  etc., and are  quite liberal in encouraging these classes by allowing  some percentage of non philatelic items. Various new experimental classes are being introduced. However, Open philately and Social philately are as their name suggests are classes where  most of the non philatelic items which have slightest of philatelic touch are allowed to be part of the philatelic exhibit. Then my submission is that such organizations need to think on the exhibit  entertaining text of letter or the contents of any mail cover or packet.    

While concluding my discussion here today, I would reiterate that  the contents in side a mail cover/packet in form of text handwritten or typed or printed form is not only postal but philatelic also. And further emphasis that these are equally  or even more important than the  study material offered by the philatelic cover. The exhibits in this class may be allowed as in line with open or social philately class. 

In the next column I shall give my opinion on  the scope of philatelic coverage and methodology of philatelic exhibiting of such material. I welcome your opinion in this regard.

Naresh Agrawal, Bilaspur (C.G.)  email  nareshkumar1992@yahoo.co.in 


Recent Indian Issues

5 August 2024 : XXXII Olympics Paris 2024 – 4 x Rs 5 + MS

31 August 2024:75 Years Supreme Court of India- Rs 10 + MS





New Special Covers


8 September 2024 : Ahilyapex 2024 : Chirand : Saran, Chhapra- Bihar


7 September 2024 : Ahilyapex 2024 : Gautam Sthan :  Saran - Chhapra, Bihar




5 September 2024 : Diamond Jubilee Year : Uthradam Thirunal Pamba Boat Race, Neerettupuram, Kerala


24 August 2024 : Krishna Janmashtami : Mathura




31 August 2024: Shri Khar Jain Swetambar Murti Pujak Sangh & Religious Trust: Bombay



12 August : 2024 : Dak Chaupal : Gandhinagar



New Special Cancellations

5 September  2024  : National Teacher’s Day : Trivandrum

20 August 2024 : World Mosquito Day : Bangalore

29 August 2024 : National Sports Day : Trivandrum

31 August 2024 : Paris 2024 Paralympics : Raipur

2 September 2024 : Paris 2024 Paralympics : Raipur







In the News


Sri Lanka releases World’s longest stamp



The world’s longest stamp, measuring 205 mm, was released by Sri Lanka’s Postal Department on 20 August 2024. According to the President’s Media Division (PMD), the stamp symbolizes the historic Sri Dalada Perahera in Kandy and is valued at Rs. 500.


FIP WSE URUGUAY 2025

17-22 Feb 2025

URUGUAY 2025 is a Specialized World Stamp Exhibition with a capacity of 2000 display frames, that will be held to celebrate the 200 years of the declaration of independence of Uruguay.

Classes available for participation are: for Competitive classes Postal History, Traditional, Postal Stationery, Aerophilately, Thematic classes, Open Philately and Literature.

Detailed rules of exhibition (IREX) and Exhibit Application Forms are available for download at https://uruguay2025.com/regulations/

The duly filled Form along with a copy of the first page of the exhibit should be submitted by Sep 15,2024

 To the National Commissioner, Parvesh Kumar Gupta, Email maachis001@gmail.com

  WhatsApp +919810628387 OR to the Joint National Commissioner, Raunak Dutta , Email. raunak.dutta1990@yahoo.in    WhatsApp +919830146836

https://wa.me/919810628387

PARTICIPATION FEE

9.1 The participation fee for Competitive Classes (Classes 1,2,3,4,5,6) is USD 100 per frame.

9.2 The participation fee for One Frame Exhibit (Class 7) is USD 110 per frame.

9.3 The participation fee for Philatelic Literature (Class 8) is USD 90 per exhibit.

 

SPECIAL ATTENTION

Exhibitors Please Note:

There is no direct Flight to Uruguay hence there will be multiple transit of Exhibits and Carrying cost of Approx Rs. 5000/- per frame over and above Entry Fee & Insurance Charges.


CHINA 2024: ASIAN INTERNATIONAL STAMP EXHIBITIONCHINA 2024 will be organized under the Patronage of the Federation of Inter-Asian Philately (FIAP) and the Recognition of Fédération Internationale de Philatélie (FIP).CHINA 2024 will open on 29 November 2024 and close on 3 December 2024. CHINA 2024 will be held at the Shanghai Exhibition Centre (Address: 1000 Yan’an Road (C), Shanghai, China 200040)

 

Mr. Pratisad Neurgaonkar, is the National Commissioner, and Mr. Rajesh Paharia is Assistant Commissioner for the China 2024 – Asian International Stamp Exhibition.

1. Mr. Pratisad Neurgaonkaar – National Commissioner

Mobile Number: +91 9766310553

Email: pratisadn@gmail.com




2. Mr. Rajesh Paharia – Assistant Commissioner

Mobile No : 9351716969

Email : shreetotal@gmail.com





MELBOURNE 2025

 

Melbourne 2025, FIAP recognised International Exhibition will be held in 2025.in  Melbourne, Australia

For more details: https://melbourne2025.com.au/ Mr. Rajesh Paharia is the National Commissioner (WhatsApp +919351716969) Email: shreetotal@gmail.com


 BOSTON-2026

The FIP Patronaged 12th International Philatelic Exhibition of the United States gathers at the Seaport section of the city Boston Convention & Exhibition Centre (BCEC) will be held from 23 to 30 May 2026. For more details: https://boston2026.org/

 



Visit : www.amsipex.com


News from Philatelists and Philatelic Societies

Bangalore

Karnataka Philatelic Society

A new book was launched on September 1st at the KPS monthly meeting. 



STAMPING SUCCESS: OLYMPICS AND SPORTS PHILATELY FROM KARNATAKA by Jagannath Mani & Sushil Mehra


This book serves as a valuable resource for collectors seeking to enhance their philatelic exhibits related to Sports and the Olympics. It features a comprehensive collection of stamps, special covers, FDCs. It gives snippets from the collection of renowned Olympics Collector Jagannath Mani and philatelist Sushil Mehra One can check at Amazon . 

For more information  contact : Jagannth Mani :  9900404808

 


On National Sports Day, Bengaluru HQ Region  released a special Picture Postcard from the Postcrossing Society of India. Additionally, the Karnataka Philately Society launched the book “Stamping Success: Olympics and Sports Philately from Karnataka”.




CURRENCY MUSEUM POSTCROSSING MEETUP



The recent meetup at Rezwan Razack's Museum of Indian Paper Money, Bangalore was a memorable event, bringing together around 20 passionate individuals with a shared interest in philately and paper money. The event was conducted by Mrs. Reshma P V and handled by Vasanth Kumar A and Ch. Praneeth Sai, ensuring a smooth and engaging experience for all attendees.

Participants were treated to an enlightening guided tour of the museum, led by the curator, Mr. Murali Thantry. His deep knowledge and engaging storytelling brought the rich history of Indian paper money to life, making the visit both educational and enjoyable. The tour also provided a unique opportunity to connect with fellow enthusiasts and exchange insights about the fascinating world of currency and philately.

 A heartfelt thanks to the museum authorities for their generous support in providing the venue free of charge, which greatly contributed to the success of this enriching experience.


Praveen Shastry, Bangalore


Great American Stamp Show 2024  : Mr M. Lokeswara Rao of Bangalore won Silver Bronze medal for his book CITES: Endangered species on Stamps.



Raipur - Chhattisgarh




MARE BALTCUM 2024- ESTONIA, INTERNATIONAL PHILATELIC EXHIBITION. Capt. Vijay Wadhwa won following awards for his books

 


 *LARGE SILVER : BOOK - "ENCHANTING BIRDS ON INDIA POST ".

Vermeil :"THE PARLIAMENT- GALLERY OF OWLS ON POSTAGE STAMPS"

5 OF Capt. Wadhwa’s  EBOOKS WERE RECOGNIZED AND AWARDED AT GRAND AMERICAN STAMP SHOW 2024. ONE VERMEIL AND FOUR LARGE SILVER .




Director Shri DK Mistry, India post, CG Circle felicitating Capt. Wadhwa for Winning 5 Medals at Grand American Stamp Show 2024, Hartford Connecticut USA.

Cuttack, Odisha

Philately Promoters


Bibhuti Mohan Mohanty a philatelist from Cuttack, Odisha has been writing regularly the column ‘This date in Philately’ recently he completed 2515 issues of this column in EIPA Group. Mr Mohanty collects Miniature sheet/ Indian Cinema personality/ Ramayana Subject / F.D.C. special Cover (Collection) and has prepared 5 Frame exhibit   on Miniature sheets 5 Frames on Indian Cinema , 2 Frames on Gandhi and  3 Frame on Ramayana .

Dehradun

Philately and Numismatics Take Center Stage in Dehradun’s Unique Independence Day Celebration



*Dehradun, 15th August 2024*—The vibrant city of Dehradun witnessed a distinctive and enriching celebration of India's 78th Independence Day, blending the nation’s patriotic fervor with the love for philately, numismatics, postcrossing, and antique collecting. Organized by philatelists Satpal S. Gandhi and Tripti Agarwal in collaboration with the Nature Science Initiative (Dr. Raman Kumar, Dr. Soumya Prasad, Riddhima Karwa and Apoorva), the event provided a platform for enthusiasts to explore India’s rich history through stamps, coins, and postcards.

 Workshops and Interactive Sessions

 The event featured workshops designed to engage both newcomers and seasoned collectors. Satpal S. Gandhi led a Postcrossing workshop, a philately workshop was conducted by Tripti Agarwal. Eminent philatelists and collection enthusiasts, including Abhai Mishra, Vinay Gupta, Nitin, Sukhvinder Singh, and Amardeep Singh, shared their stories and delved into discussions that added to the spirit of Independence Day while exploring the rich history of Dehradun. Participants gained insights into these fascinating hobbies, setting the stage for an enriching experience. The interactive sessions that followed were particularly memorable. The enthusiasm and passion shared by the community created an atmosphere of camaraderie and mutual appreciation.

A Celebration Through Stamps and Coins - Exhibits 

In addition to the workshop, the event showcased exhibits by organisers and participants which highlighted the profound cultural and historical significance of India’s rich cultural heritage.

Among the most anticipated exhibits was a 3-frame philatelic display titled "Story of India’s Freedom Struggle through Postage Stamps." Curated by Tripti Agarwal, Philatelist from Dehradun. This exhibit took viewers on a chronological journey through India's fight for freedom, using rare and historically significant stamps. 

Tripti Agarwal, also presented her internationally recognized exhibit on "Floral Melodies" which had recently won the People’s Choice Award at Virtual Stampex International 2024. The event also featured exhibits on a variety of themes, including the **Olympics**, **Ramayana**, **Kargil Vijay Diwas**, and the **100th Anniversary of the Kakori Rail Incident**.  The numismatic displays were equally compelling, with Special Edition Silver Coin Sets on show. These included:

- A Colored Souvenir coin on **Operation Vijay 1971**.

- A silver **Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav Colored Coin** by MMTC.

- A **500 Rupee Denomination Rani Durgawati Coin**.

- **Mahatma Gandhi and Jawahar Lal Nehru Proof Coins Sets**.

 These rare and valuable coins offered attendees a tangible connection to pivotal moments in India's history, further enhancing the educational aspect of the event.

A Resounding Success

The event concluded with the release of privately printed postcrossing meetup postcards, which were eagerly exchanged among participants, further solidifying the bonds within this close-knit community.

This Independence Day celebration in Dehradun served as a powerful reminder of how hobbies like philately, postcrossing and numismatics can bridge generations, offering a deeper understanding of India’s past while fostering a shared passion for preserving history.

-Tripti Agarwal, Dehradun

 Thiruananthapuram


APEX 2024

APEX-2024 Results

1st prize Capt. Vijay Wadhwa - Evolution of a beak

2nd prize  R. Mohan - I am too late

3rd prize  Gauresh Mehra - Kourou To Comets Via Darmtadt

Juniors

1st. Jaagruthi N Adka - Olympics-Bird’s Eye View

2nd. B. Shruthika - Geographical Indications - Tagged Products of Kerala.



Silchar, Assam

SILPEX 2024 

A district level stamp exhibition ( Non - competitive) was held on 24and 25th August 2024. Two special covers were released during the exhibition. Mr Arunendu Acharjee  displayed  his exhibit Salute to Soldiers in the exhibition.





-Arunendu Acharjee, Silchar


 

Editor’s Mail Box

Prakash Mody, Toronto, Canada

Dear Jeevan Jyotiji, 

 Congratulations for 16 years of existence with the 200th Issue of Rainbow Stamps.

This issue is collectors' favourite history of Indian Philatelic literature.

With best wishes for the Silver Jubilee celebration.

 -Prakash Mody, Toronto, Canada

Pradip Jain, Patna

Dear Mrs. Jyoti,

 Glad to receive Rainbow celebrating its 200th issue. Rainbow Stamp News continues to impress and inspire philatelists worldwide. This milestone edition is a testament to its unwavering dedication to the philatelic community. The inclusivity and vibrant spirit of the publication shines through, appealing to collectors of all ages and backgrounds. 

Rainbow Stamp News not only educates but also celebrates the art and history of stamp collecting, making each issue a treasured addition to any philatelist's collection. Kudos to the editor, Jeevan Jyoti, for all her work and dedication in continuity. She is a striking example of women empowerment in philately. 

The words from Dipok Day, an artist, eminent Philatelist and other fellow philatelists are complimenting the work of the editor. The article by Dipok Dey and Dinesh Sharma is quite interesting, each one of them and other fellow philatelist friends specially Mr. Naresh Agarwal who contributed to the Rainbow journey deserve accolade/ appreciation. 

 Best wishes,

 Pradip Jain RDP, FRPSL .Pragya Jain FRPSL, Patna. 

Ajit Kumar Raut, Bhubaneshwar

Congratulations Ma’am for your continued dedication please keep it up and share knowledge

Thank you.

Amol Deodikar

 Congratulations to you for bringing out 200th issue of Rainbow Newsletter. I also appreciate all hard work, dedication and efforts behind bringing Rainbow Newsletter every month.I look forward to enjoy the further future Rainbow issues every month.This Rainbow newsletter has immense contribution in Philately domain across world...!!

Wishing you all the best..!! Thank you.

 

Stories Behind Stamps








- Nisarg Sutaria

 

 Germany - Yacht Issue

 

 


 

 

The Yacht issue was a set of postage stamps featuring the picture of the German Kaiser's yacht, SMY Hohenzollern II, which were used in all of Germany's overseas territories. Millions of stamps were manufactured, and they served as the primary form of postage for all German imperial overseas possessions between 1900 and 1915. German colonies at the time included German Samoa, Kiautschou Bay, Togoland, Kamerun, German New Guinea, German South West Africa, and German East Africa.

 

History

 

The SMY Hohenzollern II was launched in 1902.All of the German colonies were conquered between 1884 and 1899. They belonged to the Universal Postal Union and used the same postage rates as the rest of the German Empire. Initially, standard Imperial stamps from the mainland were used, with just their cancellation marks indicating their colonial use; later, the names of the different colonies were overprinted on the regular stamps prior to sale. In 1900, a new stamp design was produced for widespread use throughout the colonies.

 

The boat, reminiscent of the Kaiser's imperial majesty, served as a symbol of German might and dignity. The seafaring theme of the design emphasized the German Empire's fresh hopes under Wilhelm II. The Kaiser had set out on a mission to expand globally, and by 1898, he was swiftly developing his navy to compete with other world powers, particularly Great Britain.

 

The "Yachts" were introduced in 1900 and were the official postal design for all German colonial mail until just after the onset of World War I. By mid-1915, all German colonies had fallen to Allied forces, including their postal administrations. The stolen German stamps, nearly all of which were Yachts, were renamed and priced for use by the Allies during the war. The yachts remained in service throughout the war, unlike the Kaiser's yacht, which was decommissioned in June 1914.

 

Printing

 

The blank key plate can be engraved as needed. Individual yacht issues were made from master printing plates with blank "scrolls" surrounding the design. These "key plate stamps" might be customized with names and prices as desired. Blank stamps were sometimes manufactured and stored before being overprinted with text. Fully engraved plates contain text that matches the design color, whereas overprinted blanks have rich black ink.

 

 

The "lozenges" watermark was used on the stamp back. The printing was done using the intaglio method, which necessitated moistening the paper before printing. After the drying process was completed, the random contraction of the paper caused the produced stamps to have somewhat varied sized designs. Early printings were not watermarked; however, beginning in 1905, the iconic "lozenges" watermark was placed to the back of the paper.

 

Two designs

 

Two different designs for the Yacht stamps were released. They were distributed to each colony in a consistent set of colors and denominations. The less priced varieties (3-20 pf. and 1-2 marks) were printed in monotone red, orange, green, indigo, and brown. The more expensive versions (25-50 pf. and 3-5 marks) were printed differently for aesthetic reasons: the little design's ship and text were printed with extra heavy black outlines, and the larger design was printed with contrasting colors such as red and green.

 

The majority of the stamps were issued in German currency (1 Mark = 100 Pfennig), though German East Africa used its own currency, the Rupie (1 Rupie = 64 Pesa and, from 1905, 1 Rupie = 100 Heller). After 1905, the leased port of Kiatschou utilized the Chinese Dollar ($1 = 100 cents).

 

Large design Yacht

 

The larger, more broadside, and more costly variant was printed in quantities of 1, 2, 3, or 5 marks. The big Yacht issues were panoramic and came in two subtly different styles: one with a long unfurled scroll and one with a shorter, double-folded scroll. In contrast to the modest design, they gave the huge Yachts with visual uniformity among colonies by keeping the font size around the same.

 

Small design Yacht

The smaller, forward-facing design was more popular and was printed in denominations of 3, 5, 10, 20, 25, 30, and 50 pfennigs. The tiny Yacht editions are all identical in design, with the only variance being the text. Because the size of the blank scrolls could not be changed, significant changes to font size and structure were required to accommodate colony names of varying lengths: German Southwest Africa was distinguished from other issues by its tightly cramped letters, whereas Togo and Samoa required decorative emblems to fill in the yawning blank spaces around their names.

 

Allied overprint versions

 

Following Allied conquest in World War I, the German colonies' stamps were seized, but the majority were rereleased within a few days. Stamps were overprinted with the occupiers' postal codes and redenominated in the new currency. This breach of postal etiquette was ill received in Germany, and at least one provincial governor in Belgium imposed severe penalties on stamp collectors and dealers who possessed Allied stamps.

 

The British surcharged issues of German New Guinea and the Marshall Islands with "G.R.I." for Georgius Rex Imperator, just as they did Samoa. In Kamerun, issues were overprinted with "C.E.F." for the Cameroon Expeditionary Force. British and French administrations surcharged Togo's stamps with "TOGO Anglo French Occupation" and "TOGO Occupation franco-anglaise" accordingly. Many of these Allied overprints are today extremely rare, and there are numerous documented forgeries.

 

Reference :

Image : Thank You eBay

Text : https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yacht_issue

 

-Nisarg Sutaria : email : nisargsutaria78@gmail.com

 Thematics

MAJESTIC WORLD OF AVIAN PHILATELY






 -Capt. Vijay Wadhwa  

 

Sooty Albatross Phoebetria fusca



 

A beautiful smoky-brown albatross with bright white eye crescents and an orange line running down the bill that gives this otherwise regal bird a goofy appearance. Unlike the otherwise similar Light-mantled Albatross, the present species’ dark head does not contrast with the rest of the body. Also note Light-mantled’s less obvious blue-gray bill line. Dark morph giant-petrels can be similar at a glance, but have larger, bulbous pink bills, and average more long-necked and hunch-backed in appearance. A pelagic species, ranging throughout much of the southern Atlantic and Indian Oceans. Nests on a handful of islands in that region, favoring areas with steep rocky slopes and tussock grass. The Sooty Albatross (Phoebetria fusca) is a fascinating seabird that belongs to the family Diomedeidae, which includes all albatrosses. This species is known for its distinctive appearance, solitary nature, and impressive flying abilities.

Physical Description

  • Size: The Sooty Albatross has a wingspan of approximately 2 meters (6.5 feet), and its body length ranges from 85 to 95 cm (33 to 37 inches).
  • Coloration: As the name suggests, the bird's plumage is primarily sooty-brown or dark brown, which gives it a somewhat ghostly appearance when seen gliding over the ocean. It has a slightly paler face, with a thin white crescent above and below the eyes. The bill is black with a yellow stripe along the lower mandible.
  • Eyes: Its eyes are dark, contributing to its overall somber look.
  • Legs and Feet: The legs and feet are black.

Distribution and Habitat

  • Range: The Sooty Albatross is found predominantly in the Southern Ocean, particularly around sub-Antarctic islands such as the Prince Edward Islands, Crozet Islands, Kerguelen Islands, and South Georgia. They are pelagic birds, meaning they spend most of their life at sea, only coming to land to breed.
  • Habitat: These birds are adapted to the open ocean, where they can be seen gliding effortlessly over vast distances. They prefer the colder waters of the Southern Hemisphere and are rarely seen near land except during the breeding season.

Behavior

  • Flight: The Sooty Albatross is known for its graceful and efficient flying style. Like other albatrosses, it uses dynamic soaring and slope soaring to cover great distances with minimal energy expenditure. These birds can glide for hours without flapping their wings, making them excellent long-distance travelers.
  • Feeding: Their diet mainly consists of squid, fish, and crustaceans, which they catch by surface-seizing or diving. They are also known to follow ships to scavenge for offal and other food scraps.
  • Vocalizations: The Sooty Albatross has a range of vocalizations, including wails, whistles, and grunts, which are primarily used in courtship and territorial displays.

Breeding

  • Nesting Sites: Sooty Albatrosses breed on isolated, rocky cliffs on sub-Antarctic islands. They build their nests from grass, moss, and soil, usually in areas with steep slopes that provide some protection from predators.
  • Breeding Season: The breeding season starts around September to October, when pairs return to the same nesting site they used in previous years.
  • Monogamy: They are monogamous, often forming long-lasting pairs. The same pair will return to the same nesting site year after year.
  • Egg and Chick: The female lays a single egg, which both parents take turns incubating for about 70 days. Once the chick hatches, it is fed regurgitated food by both parents until it fledges, which takes about 5 months.

Conservation Status

  • IUCN Status: The Sooty Albatross is currently listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List. The population is declining, with the main threats being introduced predators (such as rats and cats) on breeding islands, bycatch in longline fisheries, and habitat degradation.
  • Population: The global population is estimated to be around 12,000 to 15,000 breeding pairs, but this number is decreasing.

Cultural Significance and Research

  • The Sooty Albatross, like many other albatross species, has captured human imagination due to its solitary nature and remarkable flying abilities. It has been the subject of various studies on seabird ecology, particularly in relation to its foraging behavior and the challenges it faces due to human activities.

The Sooty Albatross is a remarkable bird with unique adaptations for life in the open ocean. Its endangered status highlights the importance of conservation efforts to protect these majestic birds and the delicate ecosystems they inhabit.

. Fascinating Facts

The sooty albatross is a biennial breeder, meaning they breed every other year, with the exception of a mating pair unsuccessfully rearing a chick, in which case they will try again the following year. This is because the mating season spans from June of one year to May of the next and, unlike other albatrosses, they do not participate in replacement laying.

Light-mantled Albatross Phoebetria palpebrata





A small, dark albatross with pointed wings and tail. Note the ashy-gray neck and back feathers contrasting with the dark head. Generally solitary, tending not to follow fishing vessels and ships as other albatross species do. Has a circumpolar distribution with breeding occurring on subantarctic islands. Distinguished from Sooty Albatross by the ashy-gray neck and back. Northern Giant-Petrel is another mostly dark seabird, but is larger with an obviously huge, pale bill.

The Light-mantled Albatross (Phoebetria palpebrata), also known as the Light-mantled Sooty Albatross, is a medium-sized albatross known for its elegant appearance and graceful flight. This species shares its genus, Phoebetria, with the Sooty Albatross, and the two are closely related, but the Light-mantled Albatross has some distinctive characteristics that set it apart.

Physical Description

  • Size: The Light-mantled Albatross has a wingspan of about 2.1 meters (7 feet) and a body length ranging from 79 to 89 cm (31 to 35 inches).
  • Coloration: This species is known for its striking plumage, which contrasts beautifully with the dark, stormy seas it inhabits. The upper parts, including the back, wings, and mantle, are a light gray or silvery-gray, hence the name "light-mantled." The underparts are darker, ranging from brownish-gray to dark gray. The head and neck are rich, chocolate brown.
  • Eyes: The eyes are surrounded by a thin, dark eye-ring, which gives the bird a somewhat expressive look.
  • Bill: The bill is black, slender, and hooked at the tip, perfectly adapted for catching slippery prey.
  • Legs and Feet: The legs and feet are dark gray or black.

Distribution and Habitat

  • Range: The Light-mantled Albatross is widely distributed across the Southern Ocean, with breeding colonies found on sub-Antarctic islands such as South Georgia, the Prince Edward Islands, Crozet Islands, Kerguelen Islands, Macquarie Island, and the Auckland Islands. Like other albatrosses, it spends most of its life at sea, ranging widely across the Southern Ocean.
  • Habitat: These birds prefer the open ocean and are well-adapted to the harsh, windy conditions of the Southern Hemisphere's higher latitudes. They are rarely seen near land except during the breeding season.

Behavior

  • Flight: The Light-mantled Albatross is a master of dynamic soaring, using the wind currents above the ocean to glide effortlessly for long periods without flapping its wings. This energy-efficient flight allows it to cover vast distances in search of food.
  • Feeding: Their diet consists mainly of squid, fish, and krill, which they catch by surface-seizing or shallow diving. They are also known to scavenge, following ships to feed on discarded fish and offal.
  • Vocalizations: This species has a variety of calls, including soft whistles, moans, and wails, especially during courtship displays and when defending their nests.

Breeding

  • Nesting Sites: Light-mantled Albatrosses breed on steep, rocky cliffs or slopes on remote sub-Antarctic islands. The nests are built from grass, moss, and soil, and are typically located in isolated, sheltered spots.
  • Breeding Season: The breeding season begins in October to November. They are monogamous, and pairs return to the same nesting site each year.
  • Egg and Chick: The female lays a single egg, which is incubated by both parents for about 65 to 75 days. After hatching, the chick is cared for by both parents and fledges after 140 to 170 days.
  • Parental Care: Both parents are involved in feeding the chick, regurgitating a nutrient-rich substance that provides the young with the necessary energy to grow.

Conservation Status

  • IUCN Status: The Light-mantled Albatross is listed as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List. Although it is not as severely threatened as some other albatross species, it faces similar dangers, including bycatch in longline fisheries, climate change, and predation by introduced species on breeding islands.
  • Population: The global population is estimated to be around 19,000 to 24,000 breeding pairs, but trends are difficult to assess due to the remote locations of their breeding sites.

Cultural Significance and Research

  • The Light-mantled Albatross is admired for its beauty and the grace with which it navigates the open ocean. It has been a subject of interest for ornithologists studying seabird ecology, particularly in relation to its foraging strategies, breeding behavior, and the impact of environmental changes on its life cycle.

Fascinating Facts

Light-mantled sooty albatross are the most abundant breeding albatrosses on Macquarie Island, where approximately 1,000 pairs nest every year. In the 19th century, light-mantled sooty albatrosses were named 'Blue Bird' by sealers because their plumage looked blue in strong Antarctic light.

The Light-mantled Albatross is a remarkable seabird with distinctive silvery-gray plumage and a highly specialized lifestyle adapted to the challenging conditions of the Southern Ocean. Conservation efforts are crucial to ensure the survival of this species in the face of ongoing environmental challenges.

-Capt Vijay Wadhwa : email : vicks552000@gmail.com


Specialized Section


BRITISH INDIA BAZAR CARDS

MIRROR OF HINDU MYTHOLOGY

( PICTURING RAMAYANA AND LORD HANUMAN IMAGES ONE OF THE HEROES OF RAMAYANA AND THE IMAGINATION OF MODERN HINDU RELIGIOUS IDENTITY )

 

 





-By Naresh Agarwal

                                                                   


India 1906 Advert Bazaar Card shows Hanuman God carrying a mountain

BRITISH INDIA BAZAR CARDS :

Stamps are considered as mirror of art, culture, history, religion, mythology and other aspects of any country or society but it is not only stamps but other postal material and stationery also shares their part for the same purpose. Various philatelic materials depict and project various such aspects through the quotes, slogan, text or pictorial advertisements, vignettes printed on them and also through cancellations, labels and private text and sketches drawn / written on them.

British India period around the start of 20th centaury saw a great revolution in changing trends of postal cards which were in immense use during that period. Postal cards gave new direction to postal culture and gave new dimensions to the utility of this mode of postal communication for various social, religious, business promotional and propaganda activities. Apart from those which had pre paid printed stamps issued by postal administration, that period saw a new culture of substantial use of private printed postal cards. Such post cards were developed mainly by the merchants of major cities of all over India who advertised their products or business through text or pictorial matters printed on the either side of the post cards or postal covers which used postal stamps affixed on them for payment of postage.


India 1905 Bazar Picture Postcard -Hanuman GOD

1900-30 "Bazaar" cards and covers were in fact illustrated advertising postcards and envelopes from various merchants in larger cities (Bombay, Delhi, Madras, Poona City, etc) promoting their products. These private printed post cards also showed printing of various pictures/ glimpse of various religions of India which were either printed by individual merchants / traders giving specific quotes and pictures or were also available in market with some standard pictorial printing done on either side of the cards. Such private printed post cards which were also on common sale in the market for usage even by non- merchants. Because those cards were mainly used by the merchants of bazaars of India for their business transactions and communication; the cards were known as bazaar cards.


Lord Ram and His wife Sita : British India Bazaar 1906 Postcard

Some of the cards had pictures of heroes of various mythological epics of India showing various deities, gods, scenes / images of the episodes of the epics. These cards certainly helped in promotion of religious awakening and enthusing religious spirits in India. One will certainly see a consideration of the relationship between Indian bazaar art shown on bazaar cards of that era and the formation of a modern, pan-Indian Hindu religious identity. It is seen that the popular, mechanically reproduced lithographs of Hindu mythological heroes have attracted more attention than they have so far received from scholars of religion.

While some scholars in other fields have written politically about these images but one should take seriously their religious genealogy and treat them as vernacular religious texts where these images act as sources of insight into the formation of a modern Hindu religious identity. It is assumed that there is such an entity as Hinduism that is “Sanatana Dharma”

A close study of such cards revealed that there was a huge variety of such cards which highlighted Hindu Mythology on them as one could see the glimpse of Heroes of Ramayana, Mahabharata, various Hindu deities and gods & scenes / images of various other epics on the pictures imprinted on the cards covering partial, half or in some cases full side of such the cards and covers. These prints were similar to business card or letterhead known as ‘Corner Card’. It usually included a return address. These Indian Bazaar Cards also falls in this category.

Ramayana

 


Rama and his wife Sita, seated, with Rama's brother Lakshmana fanning them, and Hanuman, the Monkey God, kneeling in front of them. From the great Hindu epic, the Ramayana

Ramayana has been the main epic of Indian mythology and is followed by every Hindu. The main story of the Ramayana is about Lord Rama. In short the Ramayana is about Rama who was born in a royal family and was supposed to be the king, but because of his step- mother, he was forced to exile from his kingdom for fourteen years. During this period his consort Sita was kidnapped by a demon called Ravan, who was the king of Lanka. Rama with the help of his brother, Lakshman, and an army of monkeys under the leadership of Hanuman, rescued Sita.

Valmiki wote Ramayan in Sanskrit Sant Tulsidas wote Ram Chritmanas

Ramayana was originally written by a sage Valmiki in the Sanskrit language and later on it was translated into other languages in different versions. Sant Tulsidas wrote Ram Chritmanas giving details of deeds of Ramayana in poetic form. The main story of the Ramayana is about Lord Rama. In short the Ramayana is about Rama who was born in a royal family and was supposed to be the king, but because of his step- mother, he was forced to exile from his kingdom for fourteen years.

But the Ramayana isn't only about Lord Rama and his attempt to rescue his consort Sita. Ramayana is also about devotion, loyalty, family roles and respect to elders.

The Ramayana does not begin with the life of Rama, but actually with the people on earth who suffered from the demon named Ravan, a cruel king who terrorizes the people of earth.


Ravana : The Villain had ten faces

Rama gets married to Sita. Sita is an adopted daughter of another king. In order to win her hand, he won the contest of bending a bow, which belonged to Lord Shiva.


HINDU DIETIES RAM AND SITA

BAZAR CARDS 1906-TWIN COBRA OVERPRINTS- SNAKE CANCELLATIONS OF GWALIOR,

King Dasrath intended to inherit his kingdom to his eldest son, Rama. But Sumitra another wife of Dashraths was provoked by her maid asks for exile of fourteen years in forests to Rama and her son Bharat to heir kingdom. King Dasrath who is in great dilemma and pain, eventually bows to her demands

Rama accepts his father's decision without any argument. He along with his wife moved out for exile. His brothers Lakshman also decides to join his brother in exile. They moved in to forests, crossed rivers..


Bazar card 1905 - Rama’s Exile : Ram and Laxman,Sita roamimng in forests.

They came across various demons. There in one forest,a female demon, Surpanakha fall in love with Rama and she tried to seduce him. Rama being a loyal husband refused to her flirts, so she tries to kill Sita. At this point Lakshman took his sword and cut the demon's nose. She went to her brother, Ravan, and told him of the disgrace that happened to her. Ravan decided to avenge this humiliation by kidnapping Rama's wife Sita. He even noticed that she is very beautiful and desired her.

Ramayana Boat Imag : India Indore State 1907 illustrated Bazar Card

To kidnap Sita, Ravan planted a beautiful deer near Rama’s hut in forest which Sita saw and urged Rama to get it. Rama ran after deer to get it. Later, Laxman also followed rama. And then, Ravna kidnapped Sita and flew to Lanka with her and placed her in a garden.



Ramayana Archery : Ram and Laxman chasing deer as requested by Sita Mata

Indore State 1906 illustrated Bazar card

When Rama returned, a vulture who had fought Ravna to rescue Sita, was found dying told them that Ravan kidnapped Sita. Rama and Lakshman decided to find out Sita.

RAMAYANA AND HANUMAN :

Rama and Lakshman needed an army to find and fight Ravan and they got this help from the monkeys. The king of monkeys who was exiled by his brother got Rama's help to fight and slain his brother. After regaining his throne the monkey king assigned one of his commanders, Hanuman to serve Rama in his assignment to find Sita.

Lord Hanuman could fly: Flying over Rawana’s Sri lanka : Bazaar King Edward Postcard

After reaching Lanka, Hanuman met Ravan who did not offer Hanuman a chair to sit. Hence Hanuman created his own thorn by extending his tail long enough and then sitting in front of Ravana.


India Bazaar Card 1905 – Ramayana image : Ravana surprised as Hanuman sits on his elongated/extended coiled tail

Ravana was shocked to see this and called his demons to set Hanuman's tail on fire. When Hanuman went to Lanka Ravana's soldiers tied Hanuman's tail with rags fabrics and Hanuman made the tail longer and longer. The exhausted demons set fire to his tail.

Now it was Hanuman's turn he jumped all over Lanka setting the entire city ablaze with his tail still on fire.In the fight between Ram and Ravana to free Sita, Ravana made an assault on Ram Seeing this, Hanuman, roving his club, came close to Ravana. To show the might of Hanuman, he did not hit Ravana with his "Gada", the Club, but gave a big blow with his free hand. Ravana's entire body and his ten heads were terribly shaken.

Hanuman who was capable of flying, flown to Lanka and found Sita in Ravna’s garden guarded by female demons, in a depressed mood. He proved to her that he was Rama's messenger and offered to carry her back.But to vindicate her honor she preferred that Rama himself should rescue her. Hanuman promised that Rama would come and rescue her.

Lord Hanuman Ji reached Sri Lanka

India Gwalior State QV 3p on illustrated Bazar Card 1904

After Hanuman's return, Rama planned his way to reach Ravan's island. Rama and his advisers planned a bridge to Lanka in the sea with trees and rocks from forests and arrived Lanka and offered Ravna a peaceful solution but Ravna’s refusal set a war in which even Rama and Laxman got hurt. The monkeys also began to get weak because Ravan's forces use biological weapons, which weaken their senses. So a medical expert in Rama's forces claimed that to neutralize that a special herb named Sanjeevani booti was required which existed in a far away mountain, named Mahodaya (Dronagiri in Himalayas).

Hindu Deity Veer Hanuman :Checking Herbs to find Sanjeevani Booti

BAZAR CARDS-1905 TWIN COBRA OVERPRINTS- SNAKE CANCELLATIONS OF GWALIOR

Hanuman flew to that mountain and found out that the mountain was full of different herbs, so he brought the whole mountain to Lanka. Slowly the forces got back to their senses.


                Bazaar Card 1905 : Hanuman Ji carrying the Sanjeevni Parvat

Eventually after many battles Ravan faced Rama and after two continuos days of battles Rama kileds Ravan and visited Sita. But the Ramayana does not end here. The fact that Sita lived in another man's palace caused some rumors about her chastity. She was obliged to take a fire test in which she sat in a fire but came out unharmed and therefore was purified from charges.


Lord Rama with his brothers, wife and Sri Hanuman

India Indore State 1907 illustrated Bazar Card

In the original version of the Ramayana, after Rama and Sita returned to Ayodhya, the capital of Kosala the rumors about Sita's adultery in Ravan's captivity continued and therefore the people disrespected her. So Rama, who was now the king, decided to banish Sita from his kingdom. In the forests she met a sage named Valmiki, who later on wrote the Ramayana. In Valmiki's ashram Sita gave birth to two twins of Rama, Lav and Kush. Those two children learnt from Valmiki to sing the Ramayana as a poem and they went everywhere and started telling everyone the Ramayana, meaning Rama's story. They even arrived into Rama's court and told him his story and so Rama recognized his sons. He brought back his wife Sita who decided to prove her loyalty to Rama by asking Mother Earth to swallow her if she was loyal to Rama and so Mother Earth to testify her loyalty, opened up and swallowed her and Sita disappeared into earth. Later on Rama himself jumped in the river to end his life, followed by many.

: Naresh Agrawal , email : nareshkumar1992@yahoo.co.in


Beginners’ Section

Beer Stamps



US #REA5 from the first issue of Beer stamps in 1866.

On September 1, 1866, the first US Beer stamps were issued.While duties, tariffs, and state taxes on beer had been instituted decades earlier, the first large-scale federal tax on beer was created on September 1, 1862. The tax was created to help fund the Union Army for the Civil War. During those four years, officials would collect the $1 per barrel tax in cash.

When the war came to an end, the government decided to keep the tax but also decided to start producing stamps to help account for paid taxes. The tax of $1 per barrel remained the same. The new stamps were produced for various barrel sizes between 1/8th of a barrel up to 1 hogshead. A hogshead was a 63-gallon container, equal to two 31.5 gallon barrels. These first stamps were issued on September 1, 1866, making them the first stamps issued for use on alcoholic beverages, though they didn’t appear in Scott Catalogue until 1994.

Brewers received Beer Tax Revenue stamps in imperforate sheets and were required to attach the stamps to the spigot of the beer barrel before it left the brewery. In most cases, this meant the stamps were destroyed when the barrels were opened. However, some people carefully removed the stamps and preserved them.

The first two issues of Beer stamps (1866 and 1867) had ornate circular designs. The stamps of 1870 had a square format with an open rectangular area in the center for the cancellation. Each stamp had different colored security lines in the cancellation area.



 US #REA20 from the 1871 issue.

Up until 1870, each set of beer stamps was produced in six different denominations. In 1871, a new series was produced featuring seven denominations. The new set included a 33⅓¢ for 1/3 of a barrel. These new stamps had a very different design too, they pictured historical figures – Andrew Jackson, Abraham Lincoln, Daniel Webster, David Farragut, William T. Sherman, Hugh McCulloch, and Alexander Hamilton. They also featured intricate scrollwork similar to that found on paper money and other security printing.

 


 US #REA34 from the 1875 issue.

In 1875, another series of Beer stamps was produced. Once again it included seven denominations, but this time they all had the same central vignette, which was called “Bacchus Serving the First Fermented Brew to Man.”


US #REA39b – from the 1878 issue.

A new series in 1878 returned to featuring portraits of notable Americans, though this set featured a different group – George Washington, Thomas Corwin, Thomas Hart Benton, George Thomas, Thomas Jefferson, Andrew Johnson, and Silas Wright.


US #REA45 from the 1898 issue.


Twenty years later, the stamps of 1878 were surcharged to reflect an increase in the tax rate to $2 per barrel. The increase was put in place to help fund the Spanish-American War. Later in 1898, the stamps were reprinted with the new increased values.

In 1901, the federal beer tax was reduced to $1.60 per barrel and new stamps featuring the same portraits from the previous issue were produced. Then in 1902, the tax rate was reduced to $1, so some stamps were surcharged and then all the stamps were again reissued at the new rate.



US #REA97 from the 1914 issue.

In 1909, the design with the historical figures was abandoned and new stamps were issued with large denominations in the center. In 1914, these stamps were surcharged to a new rate of $1.50 per barrel and overprinted “Emergency Tax Under Act of 1914.” New stamps were produced later that year to reflect the new rate.

The outbreak of World War I saw the beer tax increase to $3 per barrel in 1917 and $6 per barrel in 1918. As with previous issues, existing stamps were surcharged to reflect the new tax. No Beer stamps were produced or used after January 17, 1920, when prohibition went into effect.


US #REA174 from the 1933 issue.


New Beer stamps wouldn’t appear until after prohibition was repealed in 1933. The stamps of this era were smaller and the word beer was replaced with “Fermented Liquor” or “Fermented Malt Liquor.” The stamps were also no longer denominated in monetary values, but simply in barrels. The tax rate over the next few years would vary from $5 in 1933 up to $9 in 1951, after which their use was discontinued.


US #REA190B from the 1947 issue.


Source : Mystic Stamp Co.


Book Review

-By Jeevan Jyoti


Gandhi Connections

Compendium of Indian post offices with names related to Gandhiji

By Sushil Mehra




Gandhi Connections – Compendium of Indian Post Offices with names related to Gandhiji By Sushil Mehra : Pages :238 Type : Paperback  : Publisher : Sushil Mehra : Edition 2024 ( First) : ISBN No. :  978-969-52-9256-3 : Available at  Amazon Author’s email : gaureshmehra@gmail.com Ph.9972091818

Gandhi Connections is a unique book of compilation of the lists of  post offices on Mahatma Gandhi’s name all over India located in different states. Mahatma Gandhi theme is a world - wide theme in philately. 


The list of post offices is given state wise .The list includes  Post office Name, PIN code, Telephone No.,, Taluk, District and State. Color images of First Day Covers , Special Covers and postal stationery with cancellation from these post offices have been given in the book. The printing quality of the book is very good illustrating sharp images of the covers and cancellations. The second part of the book gives covers, letters, special covers  postal stationery, speed post letters Foreign mail with Gandhi ji Labels, special cancellations, meter marks and telegrams  related to Gandhi Ji.





The presentation and layout of the book is excellent. This unique collection of the list of post offices named after Mahatma Gandhi opens a new chapter for those collecting on Gandhi theme. It will help them in preparing exhibits in Thematic class as well as in the postal history class. The collection of letters with postmark from these post offices can form a very good exhibit. Gandhi Connections" provides a meticulously researched list, complete with the name and pin code of each post office. This book can be helpful for philatelists collecting items on Gandhiji. The book will be liked by all stamp collectors. It is an asset for   library of a philatelist and philatelic societies. It is a good reference book for all stamp collectors.

Author




 

Harmonious Journey

By N. Sridevi


Harmonious Horizons By N. Sridevi : Pages 408 : Format : Kindle edition : Available on Amazon :  Author’s contact details  : N.Sridevi - Whatsapp No.9448030936 - email : sridevi57@gmail.com

The book ‘Harmonious Horizon By N. Sridevi is a very comprehensive book on Musical Instruments. The book gives complete information on Musical instruments used all over the world of modern and ancient era..

A musical instrument is used to make musical sounds. Once humans moved from making sounds with their bodies for example, by clapping—to using objects to create music from sounds, musical instruments were born. Primitive instruments were probably designed to emulate natural sounds, and their purpose was ritual rather than entertainment. The concept of melody and the artistic pursuit of musical composition were probably unknown to early players of musical instruments.

Early musical instruments were made from "natural objects" such as shells and plant parts. As instruments evolved, so did the selection and quality of materials. Virtually every material in nature has been used by at least one culture to make musical instruments. One plays a musical instrument by interacting with it in some way for example, by plucking the strings on a string instrument, striking the surface of a drum, or blowing into an animal horn.


This book gives details about the history, classification, cultural significance, evolution, Impact and the future of musical instruments in different chapters. The book is illustrated with colourful stamps, covers, cancellations and other philatelic items issued on the musical Instruments by postal administrations of the world. The book gives very good information on indigenous and folk instruments as well as on latest electronic musical instruments. The readers would find the book very informative and interesting.

The book is a complete guide for those, collecting stamps related to ‘music’ theme or specifically on musical instruments. It will help them to prepare the plan of their exhibit systematically. The book also features many types of philatelic items related to musical instruments. It gives the collectors an opportunity to explore various items on the theme. The book will be an asset for all music lovers as well as the thematic philatelists collecting stamps on Music and preparing exhibits on Music and musical instruments as well. I recommend this book to all thematic collectors and Music Lovers.

About the author


Ms. N. Sridevi has been collecting stamps for more than 20 years; for the last 6 years has focused on thematic topics related to Musical instruments, Ramayana, Mahabharata, cuisine, G.I.Tags, Indian Musicians  &  Traditional toys.

 These exhibits have won awards at various exhibitions including PSI National Level 2017 (Silver), SIPA 2016 (Silver) & Karnapex 2015 (Silver Bronze) Australia (Sydney coin and stamp show) Balipex, Jakarta ( World Exhibition) silver, Romania,  (Efiro), Bangladesh ( silver) virtual exhibition in Pune and South America.

Other hobbies include collecting Bank Notes & Coins, Photography & Gardening.

Other accomplishments include the First lady in Karnataka to hold a heavy passenger vehicle license.  Drove a tableau during the 50th year of Independence function at Parade Grounds and also represented college in Badminton & National level in Snooker and Billiards. At present she is Director of The Malleswaram Co - operative Bank Ltd, Bengaluru.


Kingfisher - Philatelic Chronicles

By Capt. Vijay Wadhwa

 


Kingfisher – Philatelic Chronicles By Capt. Vijay Wadhwa : Pages :152  Format - Kindle : ISBN -978-93-340-9265-3 : Available on Amazon : Author’s contact details : email : vicks552000@hotmail.com Whatsapp No.8951166141

Kingfisher - Philatelic Chronicles By Capt. Vijay Wadhwa is a complete and very comprehensive book on Kingfisher illustrated with stamps issued by different countries on Kingfisher. Kingfisher is a beautiful bird

of small to medium-sized, brightly coloured They have a cosmopolitan distribution, with most species living in the tropical regions of Africa, Asia, and Oceania, but also can be found in Europe and the Americas. They can be found in deep forests near calm ponds and small rivers All kingfishers have large heads, long, sharp, pointed bills, short legs, and stubby tails. Most species have bright plumage with only small differences between the sexes. Most species are tropical in distribution, and a slight majority are found only in forests. It’s about 118 species are found all over the world.



In this book the author has given the anatomy, classification, distribution, Habitat, threats, conservation, human interaction of the bird in details with its sub chapters. There is a separate chapter on Bird Watching and Ecotourism. Part II of the book deals with different species of the Kingfisher. Each species is well described with stamp images. 68 Species of Kingfisher are described with stamp images. The author gives the data of no. of stamps issued on the particular species and the no. of countries issued stamps on that species. It will be very helpful for those collecting stamps on Kingfisher.



This book is an asset for all bird lovers and thematic stamp collectors. Bird is the most popular theme in thematic class these days. Philatelists would find this book very informative and it will help them in preparing their exclusive exhibit on Kingfisher.

 The author




New issues from other countries

Isle of Man

30 August 2024 : 150th Anniversary of the UPU


About 150th Anniversary of the UPU

Isle of Man Post Office released this issue of commemorative stamps celebrating 150 years of the Universal Postal Union (UPU), the United Nations regulatory board of postal affairs, through a selection of Manx postal history.

This new commemorative stamp issue not only honours 150 years of the UPU but also celebrates the Isle of Man’s rich postal heritage. This collection serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of international cooperation in postal services and the Isle of Man's significant role in this history.

All stamps are valued at £2.72. Featured on the stamps are:

• International Reply Coupon, 1907: The 3d International Reply Coupon was cancelled at the issuing office by the 22mm Bucks Rd Douglas Single Circle – Whitney 281 on the 28th March 1908 which is believed to have been introduced in 1902. Bucks Road, Douglas Post Office opened in 1885 and closed in 1965.

• First Commemorative Stamp, 1924: The 1924 British Empire Exhibition Postcard depicts Peel Castle and Harbour and was published by the Isle of Man (Official) Board of Advertising for their Manx Kiosk and it is one of thirty-two cards issued. The 1½d stamp was one of two issued, the other being a 1d to commemorate the event and it is cancelled by the slogan used throughout the exhibition period.

• Air Mail, 1948: The 6d King George VI Air Letter was issued in 1948 to commemorate the first Olympic Games held after the Second World War in London with the imprinted 6d stamp being an exact copy from the set of four stamps issued on the 29th July 1948. It is cancelled by the Douglas Isle of Man Universal Machine – Whitney 214 on the 24th September 1948 with this “die head” being used between 1948 and 1950.

• UPU 75th Anniversary Cover, 1949: The Universal Postal Union First Day Cover has the complete set of four stamps issued on the 10th October 1949 cancelled by the registered Douglas Isle of Man Oval – Whitney 94 which is believed to have been introduced in 1948. The Douglas Isle of Man Registration etiquette was applied at Regent Street, Douglas Crown Post Office.

New Zealand

7 August 2024 : The Invincibles 100 Years



 One hundred years ago in July 1924, New Zealand's national rugby team sailed for England to begin a tour of the United Kingdom, France, and Canada. The All Blacks went on to win every match, earning the moniker ‘Invincibles’.

The All Blacks of 1924 had been chosen after a series of seven trial games watched by seven selectors. After a six week voyage the team arrived in Plymouth, England, where they had a little over a week to regain form and fitness. Despite initial doubt from commentators and injuries and illness playing their part, the team appeared almost indestructible. Thousands packed the wharfs of Wellington harbour to welcome the ‘Invincibles’ home, and official celebrations were hosted by the Wellington City Mayor and at parliament - a fitting end to a grand tour.

Designed to look like images pasted in a scrapbook, the stamps feature clippings of quotes that were published during the tour.

4 September 2024 : Mental Health Awareness Week




Mental Health Awareness Week

For almost fifty years, the Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand has been the leading charity promoting good mental health and wellbeing and the rights of those experiencing mental health challenges.

Their work is varied - from creating and distributing free mental health and suicide prevention resources, to influencing policy makers to create a better mental health system, to running nationwide campaigns like Mental Health Awareness Week and Pink Shirt Day.

The Mental Health Foundation wants to ensure that everyone in Aotearoa has the tools and support they need to enjoy positive mental health and wellbeing. The Five Ways to Wellbeing aim to help people build resilience, boost their wellbeing and stay mentally well.

In alignment with Mental Health Awareness Week, 23 – 29 September 2024, with  vibrant colours and balloon-inspired graphics this stamp issue highlights the Five Ways to Wellbeing: Connect, Be Active, Keep Learning, Give, and Take Notice.

Portugal

16 August 2024 : Euromed sports



Euromed Sports

For several millennia, the Mediterranean was the cradle of civilisations and empires. The Phoenicians, Egyptians, Greeks, Romans, Persians, and Arabs all treated it as their own. The Romans even called it mare nostrum, “our sea”. This is a view shared by those who practise countless sports, with this issue highlighting two: surfing and 470 Class Sailing.

The origin of surfing is disputed by the Peruvians and the Polynesians, with both affirming it originated thousands of years ago; in truth, surfing was born in the Pacific Ocean and we know it was already common practice in Hawaiian society by around 1,000 years ago. Yet it was not until 1779 that news of what at the time was a curious practice reached the West, through the diaries of Lieutenant James King, who accompanied the famous Captain James Cook on a voyage to discover new lands. Nevertheless, it would take until the early twentieth century for the sport to become popular worldwide.

In Portugal, the first accounts of its practice date back to 1920 in Leça da Palmeira, but it was in the 1940s that surfing became popular on Carcavelos beach, where the first bodysurfing club was founded. In the 1960s, the sport’s first big name emerged, Pedro Martins de Lima, a man still considered the “father” of Portuguese surfing. However, it wasn’t until 1989 that the Portuguese Surfing Federation was founded, being the first Portuguese competition with a monetary prize in 1991

Surfing is practised all over the Mediterranean, from Lebanon to the south of Spain and, of course, on the western and southern Portuguese coasts, which, although on the Atlantic, are strongly influenced by the Mediterranean, what means good waves and fair weather practically all year round.

The predominant swell is north-westerly; thus, the west coast is a favourite for surfers, but, in the south, the Algarve coast is also full of popular spots, from Praia do Tonel to Ilha de Tavira.

The practice of surfing is widespread in Portugal, both among keen amateurs and the professionals who dedicate to it their lives in the national and international circuit competitions held at Portuguese surf spots.

Portugal’s exceptional surfing conditions attract surfers from all over the world, who could only marvel at the gigantic wave ridden by Garrett McNamara in Nazaré in 2013, measured at around 30 metres, earning him a place in the Guinness World Records.

Regarding the 470 Class Sailing, it is an Olympic discipline that owes its name to the length of the boat, which is 470 cm long, and which is contested in men’s and women’s races. It has been an official boat in sailing competitions since 1969 and became an Olympic class at the Montreal Games in 1976

The 470 Class is designed for two crew members and is both fast and highly sensitive to the sailors’ movements. Moreover, it was the first Olympic sailing discipline to include women.

At the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, Portugal is proud to have four representatives in these disciplines: Yolanda Hopkins and Teresa Bonvalot in surfing and Carolina João and Diogo Costa in 470 Class Sailing. Somehow, this stamp issue recognises and congratulates their participation in the Olympiad.

Switzerland

5 September 2024 150 Years of UPU



150 Years Universal Postal Union

Global postal traffic

A postcard from overseas or a parcel from the other side of the world – the Universal Postal Union has been regulating the global postal system for 150 years now. Aimé Theubet, Director of International Affairs at Swiss Post, explains exactly what that means.

Founded in 1874 and based in Bern, the Universal Postal Union is the world’s second oldest international organization. Aimé

The Universal Postal Union ensures that we have the ability to send consignments around the world. It makes cooperation between the 192 member states considerably easier, among other things, by defining norms and standards.

Any examples?

All over the world, the address is always placed at the bottom right. This may sound banal at first, but standardization of this kind is key to ensuring that all readers around the world can sort consignments. Another example is pricing policy: if a letter is sent from Switzerland to Japan, for example, Japan Post re- ceives a fee for its delivery. The Universal Postal Union lays down the clearing system for these fees and sets the prices. It is essential for processes like this to be coordinated centrally.

Why is it so important?

Without the Universal Postal Union, all postal organizations would have to come to bilateral agreements with each other. It also plays an important role in quality assurance. For instance, it has a fund in place to provide financial support to member countries that are no longer able to guarantee delivery as a result of a lack of resources – for example if defective vehicles need to be replaced. Our goal is a worldwide postal network that is functioning at all times.

What issues are currently at the top of the agenda?

At present, the Universal Postal Union is focusing on adapting international postal products to future market requirements. International online retail has been booming for several years now, raising new questions about fair remuneration: for example, should a small product like a USB cable that is sent in an envelope be billed as a letter, or should it be billed as a parcel in the future? Because the effort required for sorting is the same as for parcels. Other key areas of global cooperation include maintaining competitiveness with private logistics companies, enhanced customs and security standards and achieving sustain- ability goals.

5 September 2024 : Swiss attractions


Swiss Attractions

Nature, cities and architecture - a new stamp series focuses on the most famous Swiss attractions.


 

Born of necessity

The Jet d’Eau fountain reaches a height of 140 metres, at a speed of 200 km/h. But you may not know that the origins of this Geneva landmark lie in a hydraulic problem at the end of the 19th century. As factories in the city switched off their machines every evening, the waterworks that supplied them experienced excess pressure in the network. To combat this, a safety valve capable of controlling the pressure was installed – and the first Jet d’Eau was born, serving as the template for the tourist attraction created in 1951.

 Travelling letter box

The cold-water spring of the Rigi, a central Swiss mountain massif, has made the area famous as a health resort. And a fascinating postal fact for you: during the heyday of the Rigi’s hotel industry, these luxury buildings had not only their own stamps, but also their own post offices. What’s more, the valley railway line from Arth to Goldau, which was closed in 1956, offered a travelling letter box. When the train stopped at a station, residents could post their letter mail. During the early days of the bus service, this vehicle was also equipped with a mobile letter box.

Year-round skiing

In Zermatt, skiers can enjoy a view of the Matterhorn all year round. At 3,883 metres, the Klein Matterhorn is a superlative destination – the highest and largest summer ski area in Europe. And a secret tip: skiing greats from 22 countries train for the winter season on the Theodul Glacier. So, anyone who wants an auto- graph stands a good chance at the mountain railway station – but only in the mornings, when conditions are best on the pistes during the warmer months.

Ideal photo spot

At 136 metres long and 65 metres high, the Landwasser Viaduct carries the Rhaetian Railway’s Albula line over the rugged Landwasser Valley. If the train journey over the 120-year-old bridge is too fast for your liking, you can watch it at your leisure from the viewing platform. An ideal spot for photos, as the six-arched structure looks even more impressive from below. The platform is a 10-minute walk from the “Landwasserviadukt” car park, and the Landwasser Express – a little choo-choo train – runs from Filisur railway station during the summer.

Philatelic Clubs and Societies

Prayag Philatelic Society - https://prayagphilatelicsociety.org/

Ananthapuri Philatelic Association, Thiruvanthapuram

Baroda Philatelic Society -  http://www.vadophil.org/

Chandigarh Philatelic Club

Deccan Philatelic Society – Pune, Maharashtra

Eastern India Philatelists’ Association -http://www.filacapsule.blogspot.com/

The Hyderabad  Philatelic and Hobbies Society

India Study Circle -  http://www.indiastudycircle.org/

Indian Thematic Society, Ludhiana -http://indianthematicstamps.webs.com/

Ludhiana Philatelic Club

Numismatic & Philatelic Association of Vellore Fort 

http://numismaticphilavellore.site40.net/index.htm

Philatelic Congress of India - http://www.philateliccongressofindia.com/

Philatelic Society of Rajasthan, Jaipur

Philatelic Society of India , Mumbai : http://www.psi1897.com/

Orissa Philatelic Association, Mail id-: orissaphilatelic@gmail.com

Rainbow Stamp Club -http://rainbowstampclub.blogspot.com/

Rajkot Philatelic Society – Rajkot, Gujarat

Gujarat Philatelic Association - Ahmedabad

South India Philatelists Association -  http://www.sipa.net.in/

The Army Philatelic Society, Pune

Stamps of India – http://www.stampsofindia.com


Blogs & Websites

Philatelic Congress of India

Indian Philately Digest

Stamps of India

Rainbow Stamp News

Se-tenant Stamps of India

Flags & Stamps

Europa stamps

Welcome to Indian Philately

Blogs by Kumar Biswas

The Philatelist

Echo’s Phila House

Prayag Philatelic Society

RAINBOW STAMP CLUB

This is a blog of e-Stamp Club www.rainbowstampclub.blogspot.com  The idea of this blog is to extend the philatelic fraternity to all corners of the world. Readers may write about themselves with their collecting interests and share new ideas with other philatelists.  New Posts on recent issues, news on stamp activities, and Contributions by members are published every day on this blog. Readers may also express their views on any philatelic matter which will be published under Club News at Rainbow Stamp Cub Blog. Philatelic Clubs and Societies may also send brief write ups. Readers may send reports on new issues, special covers, cancellations & philatelic activities in their area for inclusion in this Blog. - Editor

Current Philatelic Magazines – Newsletters

-VADOPHIL, Editor - Prashant Pandya &TimirShah and published by Baroda Philatelic Society, Vadodara. Website -http://www.vadophil.org/ 


-Ananthpuri Stamp Bulletin - Monthly e -stamp bulletin of Anathapuri Philatelic Association,
 Thiruvananthapuram 

-Journal of the Army Philatelic Society

-India Post – Quarterly Journal of the India Study Circle publishes original articles submitted by members of ISC. 

-Deccan Philatelist edited by Dr Anjali Dutta email :
dranjalidutta0303@gmail.com from Deccan Philatelic Society, Pune.

-The Hyderabad Philatelist from Hyderabad Philatelic and Hobbies Society Editor – Shri Prakash Agrawal 

-SIPA Bulletin issued by South India Philatelists’ Association
 

Acknowledgment

- Ananthapuri Stamp Bulletin September 2024 issue edited by Mohanachandran Nair:  email : apa.tvpm@gmail.com

- Judaica Thematic Society, UK .  Society Newsletter September  2024 edited by Gary Goodman email :  judaicathematicsociety@talktalk.net 

- Fila Capsule  July-August 2024 issue edited by Dr Bibhudutta Mishra email : eipaodisha98@gmail.com

 Courtesy - News and Image Resource to this issue :  SIPA, Philately Promoters,  EIPA , Indian Philately, Prayag Philatelic Society Group, Philatelic Exhibitions, Deccan Philatelic Society Whatsapp WOPA  Mystic Stamp Co.;  Pan India Postal Pictorial Place Cancellation;   Praveen Shastry-Bangalore ;  Mohanachandran Nair- Trivandrum; Nithin Adka; Pravesh Kumar Gupta - New Delhi

 Address for communication:

Jeevan Jyoti, 509, Design Arcade, Chandrabani, Wildlife Institute Road, Dehradun-248001. India . e-mail –    j.jyoti9@gmail.com

A Request to Readers & Contributors –

·       Please do not send the text in scan form or PDF. Send your write ups in MS Word only.

 

  • Last date for receiving articles/ News /write ups – 25th of every month. 

 

  •  For articles :  Kindly send images in jpg compressed form and  text in MS Word only  Please do not use  any formatting and  text wrapping in the article.  Simply put the images under text where required.  

 

  • If you like this issue please forward it to your friends and help in promoting philately.

·       Please do not send forwarded messages for promotional section if you want to give any information for promotion, please write personally with brief write up. As this newsletter is not used for any commercial purpose in any manner.

Attention – Please do not send text or image for publication in PDF. 

Any material from this newsletter may be reproduced only with the written permission from the editor. 

Happy Collecting ……….                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  Rainbow Stamp News is edited and published monthly by Jeevan Jyoti from Dehradun    (Uttarakhand ) India for free circulation among philatelists.

 

 




Recent Awards

AMRITPEX 2023 - Silver

CAPE TOWN 2022 - Silver

LONDON 2022 - Silver


INPEX 2019, Mumbai - Silver

CHINA-2019, World Stamp Exhibition, Wuhan - Bronze

INPEX 2017, Mumbai - Large Silver

CHINA 2016 - Bronze

TAIPEI 2015 - Bronze

CG International Philatelic Promotion Award 2014, Germany - ( 4th Position)

INPEX 2013, Mumbai - Vermeil

SHARJAH 2012, Sharjah ( UAE ) - Silver Bronze

IPHLA 2012, Mainz - Germany : Bronze

I
NDIPEX 2011 - World Stamp Exhibition, New Delhi - Bronze

JOBURG 2010 - 26th Asian International Stamp Exhibition, Johannesburg - Silver Bronze

PORTUGAL 2010 - World Stamp Exhibition, Lisbon - Bronze

Hong Kong 2009 -23rd Asian International Stamp Exhibition, Hong Kong - Silver Bronze

About Me

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Participated in different philatelic exhibitions Wrote for philately column in The Pioneer and worked as sub-editor for U-Phil Times published from United Philatelists, Kanpur.Did Schooling from Kanpur Vidya Mandir and Post Graduation in Botany from A.N.D. College Kanpur.

Disclaimer

The views expressed in the articles published on Rainbow Stamp News Blog are solely those of the authors and contributors, and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Blog Owner. The Readers are requested to contact author or the contributor of the particular article if they have any objection or do not agree with the views expressed in the article . Please do not ask the Blog Owner to delete or change any Post published on this blog.The Post will be removed only after strong recommendation of the original author / contributor after proper verification .

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