No Nukes
The United Nations is commemorating the eightieth anniversary of
the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, Japan, which took place on 6 and 9 August 1945, respectively. As we
reflect on the devastation caused by nuclear weapons, this anniversary serves
as a powerful reminder of the urgent need for global disarmament and the
prevention of future nuclear conflict.
Dehradun August 2025 Vol. XVIII Issue No. 212
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
Sports : Surfing : Cycling
Date of issue: 28 July 2025
Editorial……
Exorbitant fee in International Philatelic Exhibitions
Dear Reader,
I am pleased to present August 2025 issue of
Rainbow Stamp News. The season of international philatelic exhibitions is around
and some points to be observed, the high rise in participation fees has become
prohibitively expensive. The steep costs, including hidden charges, have made
it challenging for philatelists, particularly from countries like India, Nepal,
Pakistan, and Bangladesh, where currency conversion differences significantly
impact participation.
A single frame entry in the 'One Frame Class'
can cost more than Rs 17000 (USD$ 195 = 17000 INR + hidden charges, while
five frames can cost more than Rs 55000 (5 x USD$ 125 = 55,000
INR + hidden charges). Hidden charges include (Bank fee + Taxes + PCI award
share + Clearance and handling fee etc.). It is approximately Rs 2000-3000 per
frame depending on the individual exhibition. These fees disproportionately
affect the One Frame Class and Competitive Class, where many aspiring
philatelists participate. The high costs may discourage these collectors,
raising questions about the accessibility of international exhibitions.
To address this issue, the FIP Committee should
consider introducing a country-based fee structure for FIP exhibitions. By
classifying countries and regulating fees, the FIP can ensure that the
financial burden is distributed equally. This approach would increase
participation, promote philately, and support its development in some smaller Asian
countries like Bhutan, Nepal, Bangladesh, Cambodia etc.
By revising the entry fees and implementing a
country-based structure, the FIP Committee can encourage more collectors to
participate and showcase their collections. Promoting philately requires
inclusivity and affordability. Let's work together to make philatelic
exhibitions more accessible to all, fostering a vibrant and diverse community
of collectors worldwide.
This is all for this month. More in the next issue.
Happy Collecting!
.Editorial
· From the Desk of Naresh Agrawal
· Recent Indian Issues
· In the News
· Specialized Section · Beginners’ Section
. Literature Section
. Stories Behind Stamps
. New Issues from Other Countries
· Philatelic Clubs and Society
· Blogs and Websites on Philately
· Current Philatelic Magazines and Newsletters
Literature Class: Needs Reforms for Better Viewing and
Judgment
A few days back, I was thrilled with pleasure to receive digital copy of FIP Literature Commission Monthly News Letter for the Month June 2025 where message from the chairman and reports from different countries regarding Philatelic Literature activities highlighting new literature introduced, the entries of Literature class in recently held exhibitions, activities being done in philatelic literature filed and other related information was shared. It was indeed a matter of pleasure to note that the commission is serious about regulating and reforming the new regulations, rules for the literature class for the future exhibitions. Possibilities are being explored for organizing the next FIP Literature Qualifying Seminar during the Dubai 2026 World Stamp Exhibition, which is scheduled to take place from 4 to 8 February 2026 in Dubai.
It has been mentioned in the newsletter that philatelic literature, in all its forms such as print or digital, is very important for the development of philately. Disseminating studies, research and activities certainly increase interest in philately all over. Learning about new contributions in each area of interest is achieved through print and digital media as both are equally important. Therefore, it is important to display and comment on new publications, and for that, this newsletter of the FIP Literature Commission has proven to be a very good way to encourage, support and develop these aspects.
The commission has clearly and strongly appreciated the fact that like other things in life, literature also evolves, both in its content and in the way it is published. Thus, observing the changes that have occurred in recent years in philately and the philatelic literature field, a group of renowned specialists in the field has been delegated the job to conduct a review of the existing Regulations and Guidelines, which is hoped to be completed in the coming months.
While this process is underway, I would like to share with readers my opinion on literature exhibiting, viewing and judgment based on my experience and thinking with a hope that these shall certainly catch the attention of the thinkers and decision makers.
Before I say anything else, I would reiterate that both print as well as digital literature are important and deserve equal attention. Rather digitalization is more aggressively coming up and highly appreciated presently. But at the same time print literature has a long lasting effect and has a stable and long life.
Well, to start with it is important to understand that philatelic literature refers to written or digital materials about postage stamps, postage material, postal information about different aspects of philately related to its development, growth, research, changes, display, sales, postal systems, postal and socio postal history. Hence, it comprises a wide range of publications, including books, journals, articles, columns and catalogues.
I think first of all proper identification and thoughtful classification needs to be done for the literature produced, existing and displayed. Literature like Catalogues, Philatelic literature encompasses a wide range of publications and resources used by stamp collectors. This includes stamp catalogues, auction catalogues, bibliography, display guide books, periodicals, auction catalogues, books, articles, columns, seminar papers and background material. These resources help identify, value, and understand history .
While I say this commission has to decide also on what exactly is the philatelic material which can not be treated as philatelic literature or unfit for exhibiting. Further, like in other classes display formats and specifications are designed; the same way for every class of philatelic literature, such specification and formats need to be formed taking into consideration both print as well as digital exhibits.
Since the work is in progress to decide how to go about judgments of Literature exhibits, feel like other classes of philately such as Postal History, Thematic etc; Literature too needs to be classified separately such as books, periodicals, articles, columns, catalogues etc. and different norms for judgment needs to be formed. For example a book can not be judged the way an article or a column or a catalogue. Further books too have different classifications. I mean a broader look has to be given to each and every aspect of philatelic literature. Hence, the marking too has to be designed and divided for each class separately looking in to various characteristics. Unlike other philatelic exhibits, literature has different dimensions, scope, period, information etc.
Let’s take another example of a regular column published in an online monthly journal. How will it be treated? The column in general talks about promoting and development in the field of philately discussing various changes and improvements that might be undertaken. Will it be allowed to participate in the exhibition? How will it be judged? What is important in such a case ? I think the commission needs to discuss such aspects.
Though I am not the right person to comment authoritatively but as a dedicated philatelist based on my experience, I understand , the one helping tool to help the jury is to let the viewers know about literature exhibits and to get reviews on the exhibit. Normally books are reviewed and the reviews are available also. But articles, catalogues, brochures, columns, news letters, publications etc. do not have digital or printed reviews.
You will appreciate it as the judges' reviews / comments on the exhibit help the viewers to know better about the exhibit and to go through it , the same way. Even visitors' views and opinions can be called immediately after they visit the exhibit to help the jury to help a little decide the fate of the exhibit. Literature viewing and judgments have to be treated differently unlike exhibits of other classes. Further, viewing digital and print exhibits should be designed separately.
further, we all understand that information is the most important aspect of literature exhibit. Nature, type, scope, impact of the information needs to be evaluated and marking segregation has to be done accordingly. Secondly for me originality and the research done should be given more weight-age. Today AI (artificial intelligence) assistance has become handy but writers' own research oriented inputs and writing technique has to be understood and given importance. The exhibit should have clear and concise relevance to the subject, situation and the conditions. Printing paper, technique, paper quality, binding, colorfulness, decorativeness, aesthetics, handling techniques are certainly important but not as important as the above discussed parameters are. For digital entries, different parameters need to be worked upon.
Balance, flow and treatment are important aspects to be judged. Say for a book, there needs to be a proper Title, Index and division of chapters and sub chapters. The nature, quality, connectivity to the title and extent of text, selection, number, size and placement of images throughout & the flow i.e. placement of image and its connectivity with the text expressed. AI assisted book writing certainly helps but it lacks originality, additional information, appropriate treatment, flow etc.. Hence, the jury has a tedious task to evaluate such exhibits.
Normally recently published exhibits are appreciated by the jury because of newness and freshness. But I understand, the publication status in which it has been published has more importance. For example an article published in “India Post” a journal of “India Study Circle” and some other lesser known and established journals do have different importance because getting an article published in ISC is much more difficult and so carries more importance, value and appreciation.
Further, like a synopsis is called for different classes , the commission needs to call for a well designed handy synopsis separately for each class of literature exhibits from the exhibitor to be submitted before the entry. This will certainly help the jury to understand more about the exhibit and so about the exhibitor.
I think the seminar needs to focus on these small aspects also before any conclusion is reached. I further think that while Literature class exhibiting and judging is in process of taking a shape; past viewers, our readers, past exhibitors and prospective exhibitors should come up with their views and opinions as these will certainly help in forming a better framework to help better display, viewing and judgment.
-Naresh Agrawal, Bilaspur (C.G.) email nareshkumar1992@yahoo.co.in Mob / WhatsApp: 09425530514
Recent Indian Issues
9
July 2025 : 125th Birth Anniversary of
SYAMA PRASAD MOOKERJEE – Rs 5
13
July 2025 : Chandrabhanu Gupta – Rs 5
17 July 205 : Centenary Celebration of Mysore Medical
College and Research Institute – Rs 5
24 July 2025 : Rani Chennabhairadevi – Rs 5
25 July 2025 : 60 Years of establishment of Diplomatic
Relations Between India and Maldives 2 x Rs 60 MS
5 August 2025 : 75th Anniversary of India -Phlippines Democratic Relationship - 2 x Rs 50 MS
New Special Cover
29
July 2025: International Tiger Day: Bhubaneswar
New Special Cancellations
29
July 2025 : Congrats to the 1st Indian to win the FIDE Women’s World
Cup 2025 : Raipur C.G.)
Divya
Deshmukh – The winner of FIDE Women’s World Cup 2025
29 July 2025 : International Tiger Day : Raipur
23 July 2025 : National Broadcasting Day : Raipur
22 July 2025 : Advanced Postal
Technology IT 2.0 : Raipur
22 July 2025 : Advanced Postal
Technology IT 2.0 : Ahmedabad
15 July 2025 : Axiom Mission – 4: Raipur
New Picture Postcards / Postal
Stationery
National
Broadcasting Day - Picture Postcard issued by Chhattisgarh Postal Circle
15 July 2025 : Axiom Mission - 4 Picture Postcard issued by
Chhattisgarh Postal Circle
Rakhi 2025
Envelopes
In The News
End of an Era : India bids goodbye to Registered Post
The Department of Posts has announced the merger of Registered Post with Speed Post services for domestic transmissions, effective September 1, 2025. This means if you are planning to send any registered posts via India post on or after September 1, 2025, it will be sent as Speed Post.
SAVPEX 2025
Heartiest Congratulations !
1. Capt Vijay Wadhwa 2. Sushil Mehra 3.Gauresh Mehra
Remarkable Performance by Indian Philatelists at Savpex 2025 One Frame Virtual International Exhibition. Results below in the order of the Exhibits as they appear online at https://stampssa.africa/exhibits/
Indian Winners
Meter Stamps of India
– 1922 – 2025: Sushil Mehra: 78 Points
Thematic:
Textiles – Fibre to
fabric and the Indian story: Revathi Rajsheaker : 63 Points
Space shuttle program
– A philatelic journey: Sammir Sakhare: 68 Points
The Pigeon: Capt.
Vijay Wadhwa: 74 Points
Evolution of Beaks:
Capt. Vijay Wadhwa: 78 Points
Aerophilately:
Simplified
classification of Indian Aviation Covers: Sushil Mehra: 74 Points
1931 England–Australia
1st and 2nd Survey Flights and Indian aerophilately: Chandan Sengupta: 85
Points
The First Flight
Cover: Satish Kumar Subramanyam: 52 Points
Astrophilately:
Cancellations from
Baikonur Cosmodrome: Prakash Chandra Behera: 78 Points
Kourou to Comets via
Darmstadt: Gauresh Mehra: 80 Points
Picture Postcards:
Charm of Posting:
Gauresh Mehra: 75 Points
Architecture Styles of
French Hotel Des Postes: Sushil Mehra: 73 Points
Velha Goa: Venkat
Tata: 77 Points
Postmarks associated
with British Empire Exhibition, 1924 & 1925: Chandan Sengupta: 71 Points
Maximaphily:
Maxim cards with
unusual stamps: Ramarathnam Krishnaswamy: 73 Points
Recent Stamp Exhibitions
From 8 -12 August 2025
It will be organized under the
Patronage of the Federation of Inter-Asian Philately (FIAP)
VIRENDRA SHARMA
Email virsharma@yahoo.com WhatsApp +91-9928570097
Apprentice National Commissioner
Aditya Asthana
Email adityaasthana@live.com WhatsApp +91-9582212130
AUSVIPEX -2025
Deadlines
Entries close: 28 September 2025
Title
Pages to Judges: Mon 5 October 2025
Scans
by: 20 Oct 2025 (but can be sent anytime up until then)
Exhibition
available on line for Judges: from Friday 13 November 2025.
Exhibition
available on line for public viewing: from Friday 27 November 2025.
Results
available: Friday 4 December 2025.
Feedback
to Exhibitors: Week commencing Mon 7 December 2025.
On
Line until 28 Feb 2026
Frames
Available: 500
Exhibition
Website https://ausvipex2025.com
Organisation
The Australian Virtual Philatelic
Exhibition 2025 (AUSVIPEX 2025) is an online National Philatelic Exhibition
organised by the Australian Philatelic Federation (APF). These regulations are
based on the APF Regulations for Australian Philatelic Exhibitions.
For all enquiries email: Ausvipex2025@gmail.com
Conditions of
Participation
Participation in the Exhibition is
open to all exhibitors worldwide. They
do not need to be a member of an affiliated organisation. The exhibitor must be
the bona-fide owner of the exhibit.
Exhibits must be of 2-8 frames based
on 16 sheets (approximately 28-29 cm x 23 cm each) per frame. Page size is not
critical but entries must be in the format of frames each comprising 16 single
sheets or the equivalent in double pages or square pages, or a combination of
single, double or square pages corresponding to a ‘frame’ in a physical
exhibition.
Exhibits may come from any of the FIP
or APF competitive classes, except for the One-Frame Class. Only electronic (or
digital) Literature Class entries will be accepted. Exhibits will be classified
and judged in their respective FIP class or Australian National Class. Judging
is based on the regulations of their respective classes and these Guidelines.
Each entry must be entered in the correct class. Non-competitive entries will be by invitation
of the Committee only.
Entries can be either scans of
exhibits prepared and mounted on paper or exhibits prepared using scans of
philatelic items with the pages prepared on a computer. If the latter, the nature of preparation must
be declared. The items scanned must be owned by the exhibitor and the scans
must not be embellished in any way.
All entries will be displayed on the
Exhibition website and available for public viewing.
Entry fees
The frame fee of $20 per frame (multi-frame
exhibits) or $25 (Electronic Literature entries) must accompany the entry form.
PHILAKOREA 2025 Specialised World Stamp Championship Exhibition
From 17 - 21 September, 2025 At COEX Le West Convention Center in Seoul,
Rep. of Korea.https://philakorea2025.kr
KAPIL GOGRI
Email : kapilg25@hotmail.com WhatsApp +91.98211.11140
Apprentice National Commissioner for India
Meena Mutha :Email meenu55@gmail.com
Dubai 2026
DUBAI 2026, Specialized FIP & FIAP patronage World
Stamp Exhibition ,4-8 February 2026
Participation open in
following classes
Class 1: Traditional Philately
Class 2:
Postal History
Class 3:
Postal Stationery
Class 4:
Thematic Philately
Class 5:
Picture Postcards 3
Class 6:
Experimental class
A: One
Frame Exhibit. (1 frame from above class only)
B:
Non-standard Frames Exhibit. ( 2-4 frames from above class only)
Class 7:
Youth Philately
Group A
10-15 years old as on Jan.1, 2026(1-3 frame)
Group B
16-18 years old as on Jan.1, 2026(2-4 frame)
Group C
19-21 years old as on Jan.1, 2026(3-5 Frame)
Class 8:
Philatelic Literature
A)
Philatelic books and research papers published after January 01, 2021
B)
Philatelic magazines and periodicals, whole annual volume issued after January
2024
C)
Catalogues published after January 01, 2024
Application Forms shall be submitted to Commissioners
not later than 20 July 2025 along with copy of the introductory page. When the
title of the exhibit differs from the past (irrespective of minor or major
changes), the previous title of the exhibit must be stated in the Exhibit
Application Form. FIP Exhibitor’s Identity Number must be stated which can also
be obtained from PCI.
The participation fee for Competitive Classes (except
6, 7 and 8) will be US$ 100 per frame , Experimental class (Class 6) A: One
frame Exhibit is US$ 110 per exhibit B: Non-standard frame exhibit is US$ 100
per frame , Youth Philately (Class 7) is US$ 20 per exhibit and Philatelic
Literature (Class 8) is US$ 90 per exhibit. All additional expenses will be
informed once applications are received and calculated accordingly.
For more
details & Form download click :https://dubai2026wse.com/
MACAO 2026
The FIP
Patronage Specialised world Stamp Exhibition will be held at Cotai Expo Hall A,
The Venetian Macao, Taipa Macau SAR from 26 June 2026 to 1stJuly 2026.
Last date of submitting entries: 18 November 2025
Visit: https://www.macao2026.org.mo/
AMSIPEX 2026
The Airmail Soceity of India Foundation (AMSI) is conducting its 2nd Virtual International Aero & Astrophilatelic exhibition during 14 to 21 February 2026.
For more details visit : www.amsipex.com
BOSTON-2026
BOSTON 2026 GWSE is organized by American Philatelic Society (APS) in accordance with Fédération Internationale de Philatélie (FIP) .The exhibition will open on May 23 and close on May 30, 2026. The exhibition will be held at the Boston Convention & Exhibition Center (BCEC) in Boston, Massachusetts, USA. Approximately 4,000 exhibition frames judged under FIP rules will be available.
BOSTON
2026 (IREX) and Entry Form
8.3 Exhibit Application Forms duly completed shall be submitted
by September 30, 2025
View : BOSTON 2026 - IREX
PHILATAIPEI 2026
FIP Patronage General World
Dates: 19 - 24 Nov 2026
News
from Philatelists and Philatelic Societies
Air Mail Society India Foundation
The Air Mail
Society India Foundation (AMSI) is dedicated to promoting the study,
collection, and appreciation of aerophilately and astrophilately in India and
around the world. Through engaging educational initiatives, virtual
exhibitions, expert talks, and global collaborations, AMSI offers a dynamic
platform for philatelists of all levels to explore the rich history and future
of air mail.
AMSI Forthcoming Zoom Meetings
�� Friday, 22th
August 2025 &; 26th September 2025
�� Start Time -
India – 7:00 PM, Paris – 3:30 PM, London – 02:30 PM & New York – 9:30
AM
Zoom Meeting
Link: https://tinyurl.com/AMSIzoommeeting
Meeting ID: 921 3527 4549
Passcode:
125235
Speakers
&;Topics
Friday, 22nd
August 2025 – Approx duration: 1:30 hours
Speaker: Mr.
Ken Sanford
Topic: Crash
Mails on the Imperial Airways Flying Boats
Speaker: Air
Vice-Marshal PK Kuruvilla VSM (Retd.)
Topic: The
1938 journey of the Flying Boat, Coogee.
Friday, 26th
September 2025 – Approx duration: 1:30 hours
Speaker: Mr.
Jean Voruz FRPSL
Topic: The
1950 Crash of Air India International’s Malabar Princess
Speaker: Mr.
Markand Dave FRPSL
Topic: The
1929 Air Mail Stamps of India
Call for
speakers
We also
welcome speaker registrations for future sessions on topics related to
Aerophilately,
Astrophilately,
Philatelic Research, Exhibiting Techniques, Youth Engagement, etc.
Please
contact: dharmdev.maurya@khaitan.in
AMSIPEX-26:2nd International Virtual Aero-
& Astrophilatelic Exhibition 14-22 February 2026
Updated
information available
on www.AMSIPEX.com
AMSIPEX-26
Highlights
All eligible
exhibits were awarded medals (including single-frame).
Novice Class
for first-time and otherwise ineligible exhibitors.
Broad
Spectrum exhibition - Exhibits under all FIP classes welcome, focused on Aero-
and
Astrophilately.
World Team
Championship (single frame): Aggregate score of
3-person
National/Club teams. (More than one team from any Nation/Club is welcome)
Experimental
multi-language format: English, French, German, and Spanish language exhibits
are
accepted and
can be viewed in the original language and English.
AMSIPEX-26
Joint Organisers
American Air
Mail Society
Auxiliary
Markings Club
British Air
Mail Society
Cercle
Aerophilatelique Francais
Royal Belgian
Philatelic Society, COSMOS
Wreck
& Crash Mail Society
AMSIPEX-26
Sponsor
Argyll Etkin
Limited – Silver Sponsor
Philatelic
Congress of India
The Philatelic Congress of India (PCI) & Rotary Club
Letter Writing Contest was a grand success. Nearly 5000 students of Class IX and Class X from over 60 schools, participated by writing a Letter to their parents or teacher expressing their Gratitude.
All entries were judged by a select panel based on an evaluation process of marking.
Prizes have been announced for 10 students each from Class IX and Class X.
BUDDHAPEX
-25
The exhibition was inaugurated by the Postmaster General, Gorakhpur Region, Shri. Gaurav Shrivastav, Padma Shri (Dr.) Ram Chet Chaudhary was the Guest of Honor who graced the occasion with his valuable words of wisdom. This was the first ever non-competitive exhibition and theme specific exhibition based on life and teachings of Gautam Buddha.
First POSTCROSSING Meet-up (Gorakhpur) was conducted on Day 01, during which a meetup-postcard was released. A total of 62 frames were exhibited; 29 exhibitors sent their collections from India and abroad. Four philatelic books on Gautam Buddha were also displayed. Philatelists and dealers from Uttar Pradesh gathered here and participated in various discussions.
- Dr. Pranjal Sonkar & Dr. Aditya Singh
Press Clippings
Registered Posts to be merged into Speed Posts from 1 September 2025
Specialized Section
Late Dr Satyendra Agrawal contributed more than 100
articles for Rainbow Stamp News. He was one of the and most versatile and
appreciated philatelic writer on Thematic Philately. He is always with us in
his work. I am pleased to reproduce some of his finest articles published in Rainbow
Stamp News. -Editor
FANCY CANCELS OF USA (Pt. II)
© Late Dr. Satyendra Kumar AgrawalThough illegal but
highly desirable: Modern US Fancy Cancels
Modern Fancy Cancels are finer,
clearer and more stylized than their predecessor’s classic Fancy Cancels,
representing mostly physical items.
Possibly as many as 2,000 different fancy cancellations exist
from the period between the early 1920s to the mid-1930s, In
addition to Cork and wood, as used for carving 19th C fancy cancels , 20th
C used apples, potatoes, linoleum, shoe soles, leather belts, roofing shingles
and rubber stamps for preparing cachets. But the most important and striking
difference between Classic and Modern Fancy Cancels is that later one was
prepared and applied by general public before presenting the Postal authority
for mailing. Few also requested to Postal clerk to apply their prepared devices
for defacing the stamps. The ink used was also not always black as per postal
directives but were in multitude of colours, most favorite of them are red,
blue, green and purple.
Few
bi-coloured example are also known to exist and much sought by the thematic
philatelist. Eye catching and breathtaking beauty of many of such bi-coloured
pictorial cancels are credited to B.R.Bales of Ohio. Like John W. Hill of
Waterbury, he also used his fanciful devices on limited number of covers,
sometime even less than 10, making them scares.
During the 1929 Baseball World Series the town of Genesee Depot/Wisconsin used a cancel depicting a bat, a ball and "WS" ("World Series") which was used on each day of the series.
There is no limit to the imagination of the carver in preparing variety of killers even on a single cover. An interesting cover of 1929 depicting eight strikes of seven different cancels on a single registered envelope interspersed with some really bad poetry is worth showing here. The cancellations are Sad/Happy face*. Elephant*. Rabbit*. Fawn*. Owl*. Moon*. Stars*. "Merry Xmas"*and Frog*.
There are many reasons behind the
preparation of such Fancy Cancel covers all started from 1927 and came to an
end after directive of the US Assistant Postmaster General, dated August 27,
1934 for use of only authorized black ink and authorized devices for defacing
by the postal employee, and rejecting the request of general public for mailing
their pre cancelled covers with their prepared fancy design cancels.
The most important reason seems to
be monetary. The origin of
such covers belongs mostly to 4th class post offices situated in
small towns where compensation of
postmasters was based on the number of pieces they processed. First in
1910, and later in 1928, postmasters were instructed by. the Postmaster General
NOT to apply a dated postmark on the front of a registered letter. This
directive however, failed to instruct the postmasters exactly how to
"kill" the stamps on the front of mail. Then postmasters of 4th
class taken this opportunity to cancel the registered envelope with their
attractive coloured fanciful devices created by themselves. The popularity of such fanciful registered
covers increased so much among the
resident as well as stamp collectors,
that even peoples reaching with their pre cancelled covers with fancy pictorial
cachets prepared by then on multitude of themes even in colour ink. Though it
was not authorized but looking their increasing compensation due to increasing
number of covers for posting forced them to overlook these unauthorized
cancelling devices present for Registration.
The reason behind request for sending envelopes by
Registered post has two important reasons behind them,
1.
To
take advantage of unclear directive of the Postal department regarding types of
killers to be used on Registered cover for franking stamps while putting CDS
obverse making room for more stamps and
2.
Opportunity
to use multiple strikes for franking stamps with attractive pictorial killers
making these covers more attractive aside from the proof
that they went through the mail.
To my surprise I found one cover dated September 1, 1934 and Feb 12, 1935 respectively in an auction of France International, USA. May be this practice of preparing fancy cancel continued in some part of USA for few more years and overlooked by the postal clerks.
Beginners’ Section
Phosphorescent Stamps
On August 1, 1963, the US Post Office
experimented with luminescent stamps for the first time, in an effort to speed
up mail sorting and cancellation.
By the late 1950s, mail volume in the US
and around the world was constantly increasing. Many countries began to explore
new ways to sort and postmark their stamps in quicker and more efficient ways.
Working with private sector companies
such as Pitney Bowes, the US Post Office worked to develop machinery that could
find the stamp and flip the envelope (a process known as “facing”) so the
postmark would be placed in the right spot. In order to do this, the stamps
needed to be able to be “seen” by the machine.
First Day Cover with cancel “First Day Use of Luminescent Tagging”
Soon
planners discovered their answer – luminescence. This is a process in which
stamps received an invisible coating that could only be seen under ultraviolet
(UV) light. Under this light, the stamps would glow.
The Post Office then needed to test their new idea, and selected US #C64 as the first stamp to implement this experiment. The stamp was issued on August 1, 1963, in Dayton, Ohio. The Post Office sent their special machinery there and overprinted the stamps with a special compound called a “taggant.” Invisible to the naked eye, the taggant made the stamps glow pinkish orange under the UV light. The experiment was a success – the machine acknowledged the glow, flipped the letters, and applied the cancels in quick order.
US #1342 with tagging under UV light
The
Post Office conducted more tests and eventually adopted this “tagging” on a
larger scale. After mid-1964, all airmail stamps were tagged. And after 1991,
all definitive and commemorative US stamps were tagged, except pre-cancels and
those under 8¢ face value. Tagged low-value stamps can trigger the
facer-canceler, which can’t read face value and reject mail if postage is
insufficient.
US #1342a with tagging omitted under UV light.
Older tagged stamps will have a reddish glow,
while more modern ones will have a greenish glow. And in recent years, the USPS
has gotten creative with its tagging, making certain elements of a stamp glow,
rather than the entire stamp.
Source: Mystic Stamp Co.
Exploration of Machu Picchu
Peru #1954 – The Gran Caverna is also known as the Temple of the Moon. It’s located in a natural cave at the bottom of the Huayna Picchu mountain.
On July 24, 1911, Hiram Bingham became one of the first Americans to explore the Inca ruins at Machu Picchu. Relatively unknown to the outside world at the time, his expedition brought it international attention, changing our understanding of ancient civilizations in South America.
US
#3910i – Yale Stamp from the Modern American Architecture Sheet
Hiram
Bingham was not originally searching for Machu Picchu. He was actually on an
expedition to find the last stronghold of the Incas, a city called Vilcabamba,
which had resisted Spanish control for years. Bingham was a professor at Yale
University, interested in South American history. In 1911, he organized the
Yale Peruvian Expedition with support from the university and the National
Geographic Society. His goal was to explore the Urubamba Valley and learn more
about Inca history.
Bingham
and his team travelled through rugged terrain, crossing rivers and climbing
mountains. The journey was difficult and dangerous, especially since there were
no roads or maps to guide them. On July 23, they reached a small farm on a
mountain ridge where a local farmer told them about old ruins nearby. The next
day, July 24, Bingham followed a young Quechua boy named Pablito up a steep
path. At the top, Bingham saw what he later described as “an unexpected sight,”
stone buildings covered in vines and trees, but still standing after hundreds
of years.
United Nations #UNG472-73 – Geneva 2007 World Heritage Stamps featuring Machu Picchu
Bingham
was amazed. What he found was a large, well-planned city with over 150
buildings, including temples, houses, and agricultural terraces. The stonework
was incredibly precise, with large stones perfectly cut and fitted together
without mortar. There were fountains and channels that showed the Incas had a
deep understanding of engineering. Even though the jungle had taken over parts
of the city, it was clear that this was once a place of great importance.
Machu
Picchu had likely been built in the mid-1400s, during the reign of the Inca
emperor Pachacuti. Historians believe it may have served as a royal estate, a
religious centre, or both. Surprisingly, the Spanish never found Machu Picchu
during their conquest of the Inca Empire, which may explain why the city
remained so well preserved. By the time Bingham arrived, it had been abandoned
for centuries, although some local families were living nearby and farming on
the terraces.
After
his discovery, Bingham began excavating the site with help from Yale and the
Peruvian government. They uncovered artifacts like pottery, tools, jewellery,
and even human remains. His work sparked international interest and made Machu
Picchu one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world.
Gibraltar #1146-52 includes a stamp honouring Machu Picchu as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
There
has been some controversy over the artifacts Bingham removed from Machu Picchu.
He took thousands of items back to Yale for study, but many Peruvians felt
these objects should stay in their country. For decades, there were debates and
negotiations between Yale and the Peruvian government. Finally, in 2011—one
hundred years after Bingham’s discovery—many of the artifacts were returned to
Peru, where they are now preserved and displayed in museums.
Since
its discovery, Machu Picchu has become one of the most visited tourist
destinations in the world. In 1983, it was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site,
and in 2007 it was voted one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Each year,
hundreds of thousands of people from around the globe come to see its dramatic
landscape and explore its ancient pathways. Visitors hike the Inca Trail or
take trains through the mountains to reach the site. The Peruvian government
has made efforts to protect Machu Picchu from damage caused by tourism,
limiting the number of daily visitors and requiring guides for entrry
Hiram Bingham who discovered Machu Picchu
While
Hiram Bingham is often credited with “discovering” Machu Picchu, the site was
never truly lost. Indigenous people had always known about it and lived nearby.
Bingham’s role was in bringing it to the attention of the outside world and
helping it gain the recognition it deserves. His expedition marked the
beginning of a new era of research and understanding about the Inca
civilization.
Source: Mystic Stamp Co.
Literature Section
Book
Review
Tilak: The less explored Frontier of Indian Philately
By Sushil Mehra
Tilak:
The less explored Frontier of Indian Philately Author - Sushil Mehra : Pages -
50 : Size A4 Paper Back : Edition - 2025
: Publisher and Copyright Holder - Sushil Mehra : Contact - WhatsApp 9972091818
: email : gaureshmehra@gmail.com
New book “Tilak: The less explored Frontier of India
Philately” by Sushil Mehra is an attempt by author to explore variety of
philatelic items available on Tilak 1956 2 annas Centenary issue of India and
present in a form that could be displayed in a five-frame exhibit. It is very
thorough research by the author to find a variety of items on a single issue.
It is also a challenging task which author has presented in this book.
The book is divided into 3 parts. Part A shows a variety of best possible philatelic material on the Tilak 1956 2 Annas Centenary issue. In Part B, the author has featured bazar postcards, ephemera, old paper, self-designed covers, special covers and a definitive stamp issued on him. In the part C of the book, the articles on Tilak philately have been presented.
The book is quite useful for all philatelists. It gives an idea to explore a variety of philatelic items on a single issue and present in a five or one frame exhibit. It is possible with thorough study and research which author has attempted to present in this book. The layout and print quality of the book is excellent. The images shown in the book are very clear and sharp which enable reader to view even minute of the cancellation very clearly. Thematic as well as traditional philatelists would find it interesting as the book gives a wide scope of research and explore philatelic items related to a single stamp issue.
The book will be liked and appreciated
by one and all.
About
the Author
Sushil Mehra is a keen philatelist and numismatist with special interest in various varied subjects related to stamp, coin and note collection. He has participated in several stamp exhibition. He is a member of Karnataka Numismatic Society as well as member of Karnataka Philatelic Society. He has a complete collection of Post Independence India Stamps. ET (Economic Times) as well Deccan Herald have published articles on his collection. Karnataka Postal Circle has released Post Cards on his collection as well as two books on Special Covers of Karnataka to which he Contributed. He is author/co-author of many books on philately. Some of them are:
- Glimpses of Vintage Bengaluru’,
- ‘Guide to Permanent Pictorial Cancellations of
India’,
- ‘ My Dashavatar Collection with special
emphasis on Rama and Krishna’,
- ‘Exemplified Philatelic Terms’,
- ‘Jai Hind – The True spirit of India’,
- ‘The Handbook of Permanent Pictorial
Cancellations of India’.
- ‘INK THE PPC: An Updated Guide to Permanent
Pictorial Cancellations’
- ‘My Collection of Special Covers issued by
Karnataka Postal Circle 2019-2023’
- ‘The Post Office Buildings of India’
- ‘CARRIED COVERS of INDIA’
- ‘Gandhi Connections’ on Post Offices in India
bearing the name of Gandhiji
- ‘Daakiya Aaya, Chitti Laya’ – a book in Hindi
about Postmen and Letters through the ages through the eyes of picture
postcards
He has
won several award at National and International Philatelic Exhibitions.
- - Jeevan Jyoti
New Book on Butterflies and Moths
Butterflies and Moths of India on Stamps
by M.Lokeswara Rao IFS (Retd.)
Butterflies and Moths are integral components of life on Earth,
they contribute significantly to its rich biodiversity. Having likely first
evolved around 150 million years ago and existing for at least 50 million
years, these fascinating creatures have a long and storied history. Comprising
over 250,000 species, butterflies and moths are a highly diverse group, making
up approximately one-quarter of all named species. India is home to
approximately 1,318 butterfly species (which constitute 65% of total Indian
fauna) out of a global total of about 19,238.B butterflies and moths,
exquisitely sensitive to environmental shifts, serve as invaluable indicators
of ecosystem health. Their presence reflects biodiversity, as they are crucial
components of the food chain. Therefore, their struggle to survive signals a
serious environmental warning. Butterflies are significant pollinators,
impacting a substantial portion of economically important crops, three-quarters
of the world's staple crops, and over 75% of flowering plants. Furthermore, the
silk industry, the oldest fibre industry, relies on the silk moth. Their beauty
and presence enrich our natural environment, bringing joy to our lives. The
rapid decline of butterflies and moths due to habitat loss and climate change,
serves as a stark warning about the health of our environment. Immediate and
comprehensive conservation efforts are essential to protect these vital insects
and safeguard the ecosystems they inhabit.
India, with its diverse landscapes and climates, is a haven for a
stunning array of butterfly species. Across the country, dedicated butterfly
parks offer visitors the chance to immerse themselves in the vibrant world of
these delicate creatures.
The book “Butterflies and Moths of India on stamps” is a unique attempt made by M.Lokeswara Rao IFS (Retd,) Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Head of the Forest Force (Retd.) to focus on philatelic material issued by India. It narrates the story of different species of Butterflies and Moths, their habitat destruction and conservation status. The book is divided into seven chapters with the chapters Butterfly on stamps, Butterfly on Postcards, Moths on Postcards. Butterflies and Moths Pictorial Cancellations, Butterflies and Moths Migration, Butterflies and Moths Conservation and Bibliography. Philatelic materials used in the book are issued by India Post, more than 220 philatelic materials like stamps, postcards, Maximum cards, special covers etc., are used. The author emphasis the philatelic materials are great conservation and education tool to bring awareness among people, especially children, to protect Butterflies and Moths. The narrative is fascinating, besides being visual delight for any reader. It will be useful to Butterfly and Moth watchers, environmentalists, foresters, philatelists and students and people of all walks of life.
Details of the Book
Book: Butterflies
and Moths of India on stamps
Author: M.
Lokeswara Rao IFS (Retd.)
Year of Publication: 2025,
A4 Size, Pages 114, all colour pages, Paper back
ISBN: 978-93-343-3179-0
Price of the Book: MRP: INR
1200, inaugural offer INR1150 inclusive of registered parcel
Stories Behind Stamps
China - 8f 40th Anniversary of Establishment of Jing Gangshan Revolutionary Bases stamp, 1967
Price: USD 281,512
The unissued 8f stamp
commemorating the 40th anniversary of the establishment of Jing Gangshan
Revolutionary Base is a current Chinese philatelic rarity. The image depicts
Chairman Mao and Lin Biao on a podium overlooking Tiananmen Square. The stamp
is also known in the philatelic community as "Big Blue Sky". It was
supposed to be released in September 1967, but due to unclear reasons, all
ordered copies were destroyed. Only a few specimens of this uncommon stamp have
survived; none of the set's other values are known. Philatelists argue that the
destruction of the stamps was not sufficiently managed, which is why some
instances exist today. One of the greatest copies of the 40th Anniversary of
the Establishment of Jing Gangshan Revolutionary Base stamp, beautifully vivid
colors on fresh white paper, unmounted mint with complete flawless original
gum, was presented at the Inter-Asia auction in January 2010. The lot grossed
$281,512.
Reference : https://findyourstampsvalue.com/rarest-stamps/most-valuable-chinese-stamps
-Nisarg Sutaria email : nisargsutaria78@gmail.com
New Issues from other countries
Aland
25 August
2025 : Aland’s Position in
the Baltic Sea
25 August 2025 ; Gustaf Erikson Shipping Company Archives
Gustaf Erikson Shipping Company Archives
The
stamp pays tribute to the maritime archive of the Åland shipowner Gustaf
Erikson (1872–1947), which has been on the UNESCO Memory of the World Register
since 2023. The stamp also bears the UNESCO logo.
Great
Britain
3 July 2025 : Mushrooms
Mushrooms
This special stamp issue celebrates the extraordinary diversity
and ecological importance of fungi found across the United Kingdom. Often
overlooked, mushrooms and toadstools reveal a hidden kingdom of remarkable
beauty, colour and form—from the iconic red-and-white fly agaric to the
jewel-like amethyst deceiver and the delicately sculpted scarlet elf cup. With
over 4,000 known species in the UK alone, fungi are a vital and varied part of
our natural landscape. They thrive in woodlands, meadows, hedgerows, and even
garden lawns, playing essential roles in nutrient cycles and ecosystem health.
Many species form intricate symbiotic relationships with plants, supporting
tree and shrub growth through underground mycorrhizal networks, while others
contribute to the decay and recycling of organic matter. Some mushrooms are
prized edibles, others strikingly toxic, but all are fascinating in their own
right.
24 July 2025: Peanuts
Royal Mail are celebrating the internationally loved comic strip ‘Peanuts’ on the occasion of its 75th anniversary in 2025.
The
first black-and-white Peanuts daily strip launched on Monday, 2 October 1950,
in a modest seven newspapers. As many more papers signed on, it led to the
longer Sunday episodes in colour, from 6 January 1952. It expanded to the UK in
February 1953, first featuring in the Daily Sketch, before switching to the
Daily Mail in May 1971.
Each stamp in the set of eight, se-tenant pairs, features Charlie Brown, Snoopy and friends in a British style theme of the much-loved comic strip including: the classic Snoopy pose on a Royal Mail Pillar Box, playing Football (or Soccer as Charlie Brown may have called it), Charlie Brown and Snoopy “enjoying” the British Weather and a Birthday Tea Party among others.
Guernsey
16
July 2025 : Royal Golden Guernsey Goat
The Golden Guernsey Goat
(Capra aegagrus hircus) is a rare dairy breed commonly found on Guernsey. Known
for its golden skin and hair, it has a unique lighter appearance, as well as
long hair, and sometimes a small white marking on the head. Despite its royal
recognition, the breed remains endangered, with fewer than 2,000 living
animals. Conservation efforts, led by organisations such as the Rare Breeds
Survival Trust, aim to preserve and promote the breed’s unique genetic
heritage.
23 July 2025 : The Wombles Trail
The Wombles Trail
A delightful Womble trail
of wooden sculptures has been unveiled on the island of Alderney to celebrate
the life of Elisabeth Beresford, much loved creator of the Wombles, who called
the island her home for over three decades. Alderney’s residents and
visitors can follow the trail, meeting Madame Cholet by the harbour; Great
Uncle Bulgaria at the airport; Tobermory at Mannez train station; Wellington on
the Hospital roundabout; and Alderney at Le Clonque Car Park. Joining the
Wombles as part of the trail is an Alderney blonde hedgehog reading a Womble
book, which can be found near the Island’s Community Woodland.
250 Years of the Birth of J.M.W Turner
2025 marks the 250th anniversary of the birth of Joseph Mallord William Turner, one of the most influential figures in the art world. Born circa 23rd April 1775, Turner’s ground breaking techniques reshaped the world of landscape painting and he is widely regarded as being the greatest landscape painter of all time.
As Britain underwent rapid industrialisation, Turner's works captured not only the beauty of nature but also the tension between human progress and the natural world. He developed a highly innovative style, characterised by dramatic compositions and a mastery of light and atmosphere that set him apart from his peers.
Isle of Man
25 July 2025: Manx Farm Animals
Romania
24 July 2025 : Royal Devotion
In the history of civilization, the dog has had a fascinating journey in its relationship with man, to the point that nowadays it is presented as a famous character in literature and cinema, with exemplary dogs among its peers who have given us real life lessons about loyalty, devotion and love. The dog loves humans the most, being endowed with numerous qualities. Renowned American novelist Agnes Sligh Turnbull said ‘Dogs’ lives are too short. Their only fault, really’.
Dogs are keen observers, and when their owners are affected by sadness or illness, they actively involve themselves as sharers in help and comfort. But what remains a universal value of their behavior is attachment and devotion. Of the thousands of stories that support this assertion, we present just one.
In Japan’s Shibuya station, a statue immortalizes a dog, Hachiko, a symbol of loyalty and love. The dog waited for its owner every day on the platform when he returned from work. For years, until he never returned and died of a cerebral hemorrhage. For 10 years, until he died of old age, Hachiko waited for his master in the same place on the station platform.
Of course, there is also human obligation towards this intelligent animal. How is this done? American scholar Richard Friedman gives us the answer: ‘Money can buy you a fine dog, but only love can make him wag his tail’.
The four postage stamps of the issue illustrate suggestively the feelings of attachment and love for of the members of the Royal House of Romania the most devoted animals present at the royal court.
Spain
23 July 2025 : Theater - Olmedo Classical Festival, Valladolid
Olmedo Classical Festival, Valladolid
For two decades, every July, Olmedo has renewed its firm
commitment to classical theatre, a first-class cultural heritage forged with
the powerful raw material of the language and the literary expressions that
enrich it.
This
deep-rooted theatrical idyll in the heart of the vast Castile region ultimately
finds its origins in Lope de Vega. Unwittingly, the Phoenix of Wits sowed an
unwavering vocation for the stage in this historic town, rich in culture, art,
and gastronomy, whose name became inextricably linked to one of the greatest
titles of universal theatres.
26 July 2025: Grand Parents’ Day
Philatelic Clubs and Societies
Air Mail
Society India Foundation - https://www.airmailsocietyindia.org/
Karnataka
Philatelic Society - https://www.karphil.in/index.html
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 - https://eipa.in/home
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
Durgapur
Philatelic & Numismatic Society – https://www.facebook.com/share/1B3TasUbyR/
Blogs & Websites
Jusqu’a Markings and other Route Indicators
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.
Eduitor – Mohanachandran Nair
-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
-The Fila Capsule issued by
Eastern India Philatelists' Association, Bhubaneswar, Odisha. Editor - Dr
Bibhudutta Mishra
Gibbons Stamp Monthly edited by Dean Shepherd –
Stanley Gibbons
Acknowledgment
- Ananthapuri Stamp
Bulletin August 2025 issue edited by Mohanachandran Nair: email : apa.tvpm@gmail.com
- Judaica Thematic
Society, UK . Society Newsletter August
2025 edited by Gary Goodman email : judaicathematicsociety@talktalk.net
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 Pictorial
Place Cancellations ;
Dharam Dev Maurya- Pune; Capt.
Vijay Wadhwa- Raipur ; Pradip Jain-Patna; M. Lokeswara Rao-Bangalore; Timir
Shah – Vadodara ; Sudhir Jain – Satna (MP)
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
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Happy Collecting ……….
Rainbow Stamp News is edited and
published monthly by Jeevan Jyoti from Dehradun (Uttarakhand ) India for free circulation
among philatelists.
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