International Day of Older Persons
Date of Issue: 1 October 2024
The International Day of Older Persons is observed by the United Nations
on 1st October annually. A longer life brings
with it opportunities, not only for older people and their families, but also
for communities and societies. Supportive environments play a vital role in
assisting older individuals to maintain their activity levels and independence.
Dehradun October 2024 Vol.
XVII Issue No. 202
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
Christmas 2024
Date of
Issue : 2 October 2024
Editorial….
Dear Reader,
I am pleased to present October 2024 issue of Rainbow Stamp News. From
this issue we start ‘Moments and Experiences’ of the philatelic Exhibitions. I invite
the Readers to share their old and recent memories and moments of philatelic
Exhibitions. In this issue Mr Naresh Agrawal writes about the essence of the
memories of a Philatelic Exhibition and sharing here with some of the
photographs taken during Amritpex 2023. I hope the readers would like this new column
‘Philatelic Moments and Experiences”. From the next issue there will be separate
section for the Readers to share their memorable moments of an exhibition with
the pics.
October is the month of Festivals. Wishing you a very Happy Festive Season!
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
· Stories Behind Stamps
· Thematics
· Specialized Section
· Beginners’ Section
· New Issues from Other
Countries
· Philatelic Clubs and Society
· Blogs and Websites on Philately
· Current Philatelic Magazines and Newsletters
Every Philatelic
Exhibition is a big
platform for the philatelic fraternity where philatelists get a chance to
exhibit and meet philatelists from the different states. They discuss philately
and see several exhibits at one place. Each
and every moment spent at the exhibition is a memory for a life time. Mr Naresh
Agrawal writes in this column about different aspects of the philatelic exhibition.
We invite memorable moments of the philatelic exhibitions with pics from the
readers for publication in Rainbow. It will be interesting to share the
memories with the Readers. - Editor
Sharing Philatelic Moments
Philatelic Exhibition is a platform for the philatelists to participate and meet fellow philatelists from different parts of the country. A memorable photo of Amritpex 2023:
L to R:
1. Visitor- Mr Naveen. 2.Naresh Agrawal 3. M. Lokeswar Rao 4. Dinesh Sharma 5.
Jeevan Jyoti - Photo courtesy: M. Lokeswara
Rao
In response to my last moth opinion on entertaining the letter text in philately, it is encouraging to note that various philatelists have not only appreciated but strongly endorsed my idea about exhibiting the text of the mail but still I wait for the readers to come up with their valued suggestions so that better opinion about the scope of such collection and exhibiting & also the methodology of exhibiting may be worked out. Hence, I will come up again with this after getting sufficient response from the esteemed readers.
Well, this time a
different idea clicked me as Mrs. Jeevan Jyoti shared with me a group
photograph of five philatelists taken during AMRITPEX 2023. I thank her as the
photograph took me back to AMRITPEX and reminded me of my visit there. The
memories of that exhibition and my stay there not only refreshed but those
filled me with pleasure. That show gave me opportunity to meet and interact
with so many philatelists, friends and stamp lovers. Of course, it reached a
new world full of pleasure where time was not a bar though limited because once
entered, just lost there. So, I feel sometimes coming out of the boxes and
albums is more important in philately.
Philately presently is considered to be a hobby of sharing. I mean though one collects philatelic material of his choice and the one which satisfies and relaxes him but the true pleasure is in sharing the collections by way of display or showing, getting appreciation from fellow philatelists and stamp lovers, getting opinion of people etc.. If I think a little more to justify my statement of sharing, philately is also about sharing ones philatelic experiences and other related experiences like sharing knowledge, updates, discussing on various philately related topics etc.. Philatelic gossip too may get a big place in this sharing process. Mainly the female philatelists probably enjoy the most of such sharing in Indian context.
We must appreciate one
thing that philatelic literature (bulletins, magazines, journals) are for
philatelists and stamp lovers. Of course, it is helpful in giving the updates
and also serves with the information related to research and development in the
field of philately. It is study and research-oriented giving advance
information and discusses advance aspects of collection, exhibiting and
philately for example “India Post” by India Study Circle. But such literature
serves only a limited number of philatelists and not philatelists in general.
In my opinion such philatelic magazines, journals, bulletins should have some space for general readers to help them to share their experiences which may not only be just sharing knowledge but may help in motivation for the other. Meeting philatelists and eminent philatelic personalities, sharing the chats/discussions with them, opinion about the displays, facilities there. I mean there is lot which one can share. Opinion on exhibits in general or on specific exhibits, arrangements, goods and bads of the show. This will not only help better interaction amongst the readers but they will open up to all and can provide better inputs on various aspects of promoting, improving and building better relationship and bond of friendship amongst each other.
Releasing Book with EIPA members at AMRITPEX 2023
There are so many activities
happening all around which can be shared other than reporting on any event.
Sharing beautiful memories, opinions, photographs with experiences, small
pieces of specific interesting philatelic discussions, meetings etc .. Even
readers entry in to the beautiful world of stamp collecting is also
interesting. Their specific fascination about philately. I mean readers can
open their heart out.
I hope this will not make the literature
interesting but also motivate the readers, create better atmosphere, help
better interaction and finally give more pleasure.
Naresh Agrawal , Bilaspur (C.G.) email nareshkumar1992@yahoo.co.in
Recent Indian Issues
14 September 2024 : Diamond Jubilee of Raj Bhasha – Rs 5
17 September 2024 : Joint Issue India – Romania – MS + 2 x Rs 50
20 September 2024 : 100th Birth anniversary of Akkineni
Nageswara Rao – Rs 5
New Special Covers
3 October 2024 : Navratri : Mumbai
3 October 2024 : Nine Days of Navratri : Mumbai
2 October 2024 : Gandhi Inter School : Nawada
28 September 2024 : SS Khanna Girls Inter College : Prayagraj
New Special Cancellations
4 October 2024 : Marathi - Classical Language : Mumbai
4 October
2024 : World Animal Welfare Day : Bangalore
2.Revised Cancellation issued by Karnataka Postal Circle
2 October 2024 : Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti : Berhampur
1 October 2024 : World Postcard Day :
Mangalore & Jaipur
In The News
“FIP Medal of Appreciation for Exceptional Jury Service”
With the efforts and proposal submitted by PCI, the “FIP Medal of Appreciation for Exceptional Jury Service” has been conferred upon and awarded to Mr. Ajeet Raj Singhee, Past President – PCI.
FIP WSE URUGUAY 2025
17-22 Feb 2025
CHINA 2024: ASIAN INTERNATIONAL STAMP EXHIBITION
CHINA 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
Odisha
Odisha Circle, issued a special cancellation on " World Tourism Day" at Khandagiri SO, Bhubaneswar on 27th September 2024 in presence Shri Tarini Charan Padhi, SSPoS, Bhubaneswar Division, Shri Nikhil Mohan Pattnaik, Eminent Philatelist and Scientist , Shri Pramod Kumar Panda, Chief Administration Officer, SoA University and Shri Nachiketa Sharma, SoA University Bhubaneswar, Odisha. This year theme is " Tourism and Peace " and Cancellation cachet designed by Shri Ajit Kumar Raut, Philatelist, Bhubaneswar.
-Ajit Kumar Raut - Bhubaneshwar
Uttar Pradesh
The Philatelic Society of Uttar Pradesh issued a special cover & special cancellation on freedom fighter & unsung hero Late. Laxmikant Chaturvedi on 27th February, 2024 at Deoria Head Post Office.
Laxmikant Chaturvedi was born on 16th May,
1908 in a farming family in village Sonbarsa, District-Deoria (then Gorakhpur).
Due to his active participation in the freedom struggle, in 1926, he was
elected as President of the Students Union of Allahabad University and later
started practicing law in Gorakhpur in 1930. In 1958, he participated as a
Satyagrahi in the food movement of Bharatiya Jana Sangh and was imprisoned in
Deoria jail. In 1967, he was elected president of Deoria Municipality as first
Jan Sangh candidate.
Mr. Himanshu Kumar & Dr. Aditya Singh
designed and proposed the cover. Mr. Sandeep Chaurasia & Mr. Raman Mandal
were also present in the release function. This cover was widely appreciated by
the audience.
On the occasion of Golden Jubilee year celebrations of S. S. Khanna Girls' Degree College, Prayagraj, the Department of Posts, along with Philatelic Society of Uttar Pradesh released a Special Cover and Special Cancellation dated 28-09-2024 at Head Post Office, Prayagraj, marking it among the only few educational institutions in the city of having this honour.
-Dr Aditya Singh - Lucknow
Stories Behind Stamps
Irish 2d Coil Stamp - 1935
Irish 2d Coil Stamp - 1935
Country of production - Ireland
Location of production - Dublin
Date of production - 1935
Nature of rarity - Few printed
No. in existence - 20 mint, several used, a few on cover
Face value - 2d
Estimated value : GBP 9,000 (mint) & GBP 1,500 (used)
The Rare 2d Coil was an
experimental vertical coil stamp, priced 2d, produced by the Irish Post Office
in 1935. It is one of the rarest and most costly Irish stamps. Stamp collectors
frequently refer to it as "Scott 68b" or "SG 74b", which
are the Scott and Stanley Gibbons stamp catalogue numbers, respectively.
Design
Philatelists refer to the
configuration as "perf 15 x imperf" or "perf 15 horizontal"
in the United States, because the stamp is perforated 15 gauge (holes per 2 cm)
on the horizontal and imperforate on the vertical edges. It appears identical
to the first 2d value definitive stamp released on December 6, 1922, with the
Map of Ireland, save for the imperforate vertical edges. It employs the first
Irish watermark, a stylized design of the two overlapping letters's' and 'e'
forming an'se' watermark reflecting the name of the country, Saorstát Éireann
(Irish Free State).
History
It was originally recognized in
1937, but it was not included in philatelic catalogues until 1952, when the
Scott stamp book mentioned it. Over the years, 20 examples have been identified
in mint condition, but the number of worn stamps is unknown. Even though some
have been documented, they are still rare. A few specimens of the stamp are
known to exist on cover, however Dulin points out that all Irish coil stamps
are rare on cover. During the mid-1990s, there was some discussion about the
authenticity of this stamp in Irish philatelic literature, with some claiming
it was created from a standard completely perforated stamp using a press. This
notion was refuted by Foley and Ian Whyte, a Dublin stamp dealer, who both said
that such a process would harm the stamp and was scientifically impossible.
Archived records were also discovered, confirming that the stamp was ordered
and issued by the Irish postal authority.
2d Map of Ireland definitive stamp perforated on all sides from a regular sheet of stamps; 1st letter rate stamp.
Gerard Brady example 1 sold in Dublin in May 2016 for €10,000 by
Whyte's.
Mint 68b that received a Philatelic Foundation Certificate in 2010 was sold in an April 2011 Kelleher auction for $12,500.00 (plus 15% buyer fee).
Gerard Brady conducted a careful
investigation of the twenty known unused instances and reported his findings in
the Irish Stamp News in 1981.
Forgery
Reference : https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1935_Irish_2d_coil_stamp
-Nisarg Sutaria : email : nisargsutaria78@gmail.com
Thematics
MAJESTIC WORLD OF AVIAN PHILATELY
Atlantic Yellow-nosed Albatross
(Thalassarche
chlororhynchos)
It is a Massive seabird, but relatively small and
slender for an albatross. It Breeds on Gough and Tristan da Cunha islands in
South Atlantic, ranging mainly at subtropical latitudes in Atlantic, rarely
east to Indian Ocean or further north in Atlantic. On adult, note soft
gray hood (whiter on crown), more extensively gray than on cheek of Indian
Yellow-nosed. Young birds are paler-headed with dark gray smudge around eye;
some difficult or impossible to separate from Indian Yellow-nosed. Bill is
long, thin, and black, with yellow-orange stripe along the top ridge (culmen)
on adults. Also look for thicker black leading edge on underwing to help
separate from White-capped Albatross at a distance. Also compare with
Gray-headed and Black-browed Albatross; note underwing pattern, bill pattern,
head color.
The Atlantic
Yellow-nosed Albatross (Thalassarche chlororhynchos) is a
medium-sized seabird that belongs to the albatross family, Diomedeidae.
It is notable for its graceful gliding flight over the southern Atlantic Ocean
and its distinctive yellow stripe on the top of its beak. Here’s a
comprehensive overview of this bird species:
1.
Identification & Physical Description
- Size & Shape: The Atlantic Yellow-nosed Albatross measures
about 76–81 cm (30–32 inches) in length, with a wingspan of 2.0 to 2.2
meters (6.5 to 7.2 feet).
- Plumage: The bird has a
predominantly white head and body, with a dark grayish back and upper
wings. Its underwings are mostly white with a narrow dark border.
- Beak: The beak is
slender and dark grayish-black, with a bright yellow stripe running along
the top. The tip is sometimes pale.
- Eyes: They have dark
eyes with a thin white eye-ring, adding to their distinctive facial
appearance.
- Juveniles:
Juvenile Atlantic Yellow-nosed Albatrosses lack the yellow stripe on their
bills and have more uniform dark plumage on their heads.
2.
Habitat & Distribution
- Breeding Sites: The species breeds on a few remote islands in
the southern Atlantic Ocean. Key breeding grounds include:
- Tristan da Cunha archipelago
- Gough Island
(a UNESCO World Heritage Site)
- Inaccessible Island (another UNESCO site)
- Feeding Grounds:
After the breeding season, they disperse widely across the Atlantic Ocean.
They are often found over open seas off the coasts of Brazil, Argentina,
and as far north as the equator.
- Migration:
Though they are known to wander widely, Atlantic Yellow-nosed Albatrosses
typically do not venture as far south as other albatross species.
3.
Behavior & Ecology
- Flight: This albatross is a master of dynamic soaring,
utilizing wind gradients over the ocean’s surface to glide effortlessly,
expending very little energy.
- Feeding: It is a surface
feeder, primarily preying on:
- Squid
- Fish
- Crustaceans
- Occasionally scavenging discarded fishery offal.
- Foraging Techniques: They feed by surface-seizing, which involves
snatching prey from the surface, and rarely plunge-dive like some other
seabirds.
4.
Breeding & Life Cycle
- Breeding Season: The breeding season occurs from late September
to early April.
- Nesting: They build
nests made of grass, soil, and mud, usually on open ground or among
tussock grass. These nests are shallow depressions lined with vegetation.
- Egg & Incubation: They lay a single large white egg, which is
incubated alternately by both parents for about 70 days.
- Chick Rearing:
After hatching, chicks are cared for by both parents and fledge in around
130 days.
- Lifespan: They have a
long lifespan, often living for several decades.
5.
Conservation Status
- IUCN Status: The Atlantic Yellow-nosed Albatross is listed
as Endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature
(IUCN).
- Threats:
- Bycatch:
One of the main threats is bycatch in longline and trawl fisheries. Birds
often get caught on hooks or collide with cables, resulting in
fatalities.
- Habitat Degradation: Predation by introduced species, particularly
mice and rats, on breeding islands has had a severe impact on their
breeding success.
- Pollution:
Ocean pollution, such as plastic ingestion and oil spills, poses
additional threats.
6.
Conservation Efforts
Several
conservation initiatives have been established to protect this species,
including:
- Establishing
Marine Protected Areas around key
breeding and feeding grounds.
- Implementing Bird-Friendly Fishing Practices, such as bird-scaring lines, weighted hooks, and
night-setting, to reduce bycatch.
- Invasive Species Control: On breeding islands, efforts are ongoing to
control or eradicate introduced rodents.
7.
Taxonomy & Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Thalassarche chlororhynchos
- Family: Diomedeidae
(Albatrosses)
- Genus: Thalassarche,
which is closely related to other smaller albatrosses known as mollymawks.
- Common Names:
It is sometimes simply referred to as the Yellow-nosed Albatross.
However, to avoid confusion with the closely related Indian Yellow-nosed
Albatross (Thalassarche carteri), it is more accurately known as
the Atlantic Yellow-nosed Albatross.
8.
Interesting Facts
- Albatrosses are
known for their long-distance migrations, and some individuals can
travel over 10,000 km (6,200 miles) in a single trip.
- The albatross is often considered a symbol of
good luck in maritime lore, thanks to its ability to navigate stormy seas.
- Albatrosses have specialized salt glands that
allow them to drink seawater and expel the excess salt through nasal
passages.
The Atlantic Yellow-nosed Albatross is a remarkable
seabird that plays a vital role in the marine ecosystem. However, its declining
population highlights the urgent need for effective conservation measures to
protect this majestic species and its delicate oceanic habitat.
Indian Yellow-nosed
Albatross
(Thalassarche
carteri)
It is a small to
medium-sized albatross (seabird)
, but relatively small and slender for an albatross and breeds on islands in
the Southern Indian Ocean from Marion and Prince Edward to Amsterdam and St.
Paul. It ranges mainly at subtropical latitudes in the Indian Ocean, from South
Africa to Australia, rarely to New Zealand. On adult, note soft gray cheek,
typically much less extensive than hood of Atlantic Yellow-nosed. Young
birds are mostly white-headed with limited gray around eye; some
difficult or impossible to separate from Atlantic Yellow-nosed. Bill is long,
thin, and black, with yellow-orange stripe along the top ridge (culmen) on
adults. Also look for thicker black leading edge on underwing to help separate
from White-capped Albatross at a distance. Also compare with Gray-headed and
Black-browed Albatross; note underwing pattern, bill pattern, head color.
1.
Identification & Physical Description
- Size & Shape: The Indian Yellow-nosed Albatross is slightly
smaller than its Atlantic counterpart. It measures about 76 cm (30 inches)
in length, with a wingspan ranging from 2.0 to 2.2 meters (6.5 to 7.2
feet).
- Plumage: Like most
mollymawks, the Indian Yellow-nosed Albatross has white plumage on the
head, neck, and underparts, with a gray back and dark upper wings. The
underwings are white with a narrow black margin along the leading and
trailing edges.
- Beak: Its beak is one
of its defining features, being black with a bright yellow stripe along
the culmen (top ridge of the beak) and a distinctive orange tip.
- Eyes: The species has
dark eyes with a narrow white eye-ring.
- Juvenile: Juveniles have
a more uniformly dark gray head and less pronounced yellow coloration on
the beak.
2.
Habitat & Distribution
- Breeding Grounds: The Indian Yellow-nosed Albatross breeds on
several remote islands in the Indian Ocean, including:
- Prince Edward Islands (South Africa)
- Crozet Islands
(French Southern and Antarctic Lands)
- Kerguelen Islands (French Southern and Antarctic Lands)
- Amsterdam Island and St. Paul Island (French Southern
Territories)
- Foraging Grounds: After breeding, they disperse across the
subtropical and temperate regions of the Indian Ocean. They are often
spotted off the southern coasts of Australia, South Africa, and as far
north as the equator.
- Migration Patterns: They are highly pelagic (oceanic), spending
most of their lives at sea and covering vast distances. They usually stay
within the Indian Ocean, unlike the Atlantic Yellow-nosed Albatross, which
inhabits the Atlantic Ocean.
3.
Behavior & Ecology
- Flight: The Indian Yellow-nosed Albatross is known for
its graceful and efficient flying style. Using dynamic soaring and slope
soaring techniques, it can glide for long periods without flapping its
wings, utilizing wind currents and updrafts over ocean waves.
- Feeding: This albatross
feeds primarily on:
- Squid
- Fish
- Crustaceans
- Sometimes carrion or fishery discards.
- Foraging Methods: It typically seizes prey from the ocean’s
surface, either by surface-seizing or dipping, but it rarely dives deeply.
During feeding, it sometimes associates with other seabird species and
marine mammals.
4.
Breeding & Life Cycle
- Breeding Season: The breeding season for the Indian Yellow-nosed
Albatross starts around September and runs through early April.
- Nesting: The birds form
loose colonies on steep, grassy slopes or flat plateaus on isolated
islands. They build nests made of mud, grass, and other vegetation, shaped
into a shallow cup.
- Egg & Incubation: They lay a single white egg, which is incubated
alternately by both parents for about 70 days.
- Chick Rearing:
After hatching, the chick is brooded for a few weeks and fed by both
parents until it fledges after approximately 120 to 140 days.
- Lifespan: The Indian
Yellow-nosed Albatross has a long lifespan, often living up to 40 years or
more in the wild.
5.
Conservation Status
- IUCN Status: The Indian Yellow-nosed Albatross is listed as Endangered
by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
- Population Estimates: The global population is estimated to be around
65,000 individuals, with a declining trend due to various threats.
- Major Threats:
- Bycatch:
The primary threat is bycatch in longline fisheries. Albatrosses are
often hooked while attempting to snatch bait from fishing lines, leading
to drowning.
- Habitat Degradation: On breeding islands, introduced species such
as cats and rats prey on eggs and chicks, significantly reducing breeding
success.
- Climate Change:
Changing oceanic conditions impact prey availability and breeding
success.
- Pollution:
Marine pollution, such as plastic debris, and oil spills can lead to
ingestion or contamination.
6.
Conservation Efforts
Conservation
initiatives have been implemented to address the decline in Indian Yellow-nosed
Albatross populations, including:
- Bycatch
Mitigation: Adoption of
bird-friendly fishing practices, such as using bird-scaring lines,
weighted hooks, and night-setting to prevent bycatch.
- Invasive Species Eradication: On breeding islands, projects are underway to
control or eradicate invasive species like rodents and feral cats.
- Marine Protected Areas: Efforts are being made to establish marine
protected areas around key foraging and breeding sites.
- Tracking & Monitoring: Satellite tracking and monitoring programs help
scientists understand their migratory patterns, foraging behavior, and
threats.
7.
Taxonomy & Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Thalassarche carteri
- Family: Diomedeidae
(Albatrosses)
- Genus: Thalassarche
- Common Names:
Sometimes referred to simply as the Yellow-nosed Albatross, but to
differentiate it from the Atlantic species, it is called the Indian
Yellow-nosed Albatross.
- Taxonomic Note:
The Indian Yellow-nosed Albatross was once considered a subspecies of the
Atlantic Yellow-nosed Albatross (Thalassarche chlororhynchos).
However, due to differences in morphology and geographical distribution,
it is now recognized as a distinct species.
8.
Interesting Facts
- Albatrosses are
known for their long-term pair bonds. The Indian Yellow-nosed
Albatross forms lifelong monogamous pairs, engaging in elaborate courtship
displays that involve synchronized dancing and mutual preening.
- They have unique nasal glands located
above their beaks, which excrete a high-concentration saline solution,
allowing them to drink seawater.
- The species is named for its yellow-nosed
appearance. The name "Thalassarche" is derived from Greek,
meaning "ruler of the sea," which aptly describes the bird's
command over the open ocean.
The
Indian Yellow-nosed Albatross is a magnificent seabird, deeply intertwined with
the health of the southern Indian Ocean ecosystem. Its plight underscores the
need for robust conservation measures to protect these oceanic wanderers and
their fragile breeding islands.
-Capt Vijay Wadhwa :
email : vicks552000@gmail.com
Specialized Section
The “Baby Zepp”
S #C18 was issued on this day in 1933.
On October 2, 1933, the Century of Progress
airmail stamp, affectionately known as “Baby Zepp” was issued. It sold poorly
at the time and 90% of the stamps were destroyed, leaving a relatively small
number available today.
In the 1920s, Germany’s Luftschiffbau Zeppelin company offered to build the US a dirigible as payment for debt from World War I. America agreed, with the stipulation that the airship had to prove itself in a transatlantic journey. On October 16, 1924, the LZ 126 arrived in New Jersey. This was the start of Graf Zeppelin flights between the US, South America, and Europe, with mail carried to all stops along the way
US #C13-15 – the three zeppelin stamps issued in 1930
The US postmaster
general decided to issue a new set of stamps specifically for mail carried on
these flights. The new stamps would subsidize the flights. Three zeppelin
stamps were issued in 1930. The fourth was issued in 1933 to help pay for the
Graf Zeppelin flight to Chicago. At the time, the city was holding the Chicago
World’s Fair, titled “A Century of Progress.”
Held on the shore of
Lake Michigan, this gigantic fair celebrated the 100th anniversary of Chicago’s
incorporation as a village. It featured outstanding science and industry
exhibits and was a great economic aid to Chicago during the Great Depression.
On August 18, post office officials agreed to issue the 50¢ stamp, with 42½¢ from each stamp to go to the Zeppelin Company. Because its face value was much lower than that of the previous Zeppelin stamps, #C18 became known as “Baby Zepp.”
US #729 – Federal
Building at Chicago stamp issued for the Century of Progress
Victor McCloskey Jr., a Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP) employee, designed the new stamp. It pictures the Graf Zeppelin flying over the Atlantic Ocean. On the left is the federal building, representing the World’s Fair. The image on the right shows a zeppelin hangar in Friedrichshafen, Germany, where the flight started.
The BEP had just six
weeks to produce and distribute the stamp so mail could travel by steamer to
Germany and then return back to the US on a special flight. It was issued in
five US cities on different days. The first city was New York, on October 2, and
the last city was Chicago, on October 7.
On the Century of
Progress flight, for which the #C18 stamp was issued, the Graf Zeppelin
traveled from its home base at Friedrichshafen, Germany, to Brazil. The great
airship then traveled to Miami, Florida, where it was supplied with more
hydrogen. Another refueling stop was made at Akron, Ohio before the Graf
Zeppelin reached Chicago. At each destination, huge crowds greeted the
dirigible. The Graf Zeppelin arrived at the fairgrounds on October 26. After
circling the air over the expo for two hours, it made a brief 25-minute landing
and then took off for Akron, Ohio.
In spite of its
attractive design and historic significance, #C18 sold poorly in 1933.
Eventually, 90% of the stamps were destroyed – leaving a mere 324,000 for
modern collectors.
The Graf Zeppelin
aircraft was later grounded when the Hindenburg exploded on May 6, 1937.
However, during its service, the Graf Zeppelin established an incredible
performance record. It made 590 flights, including 144 ocean crossings, and
covered more than one million miles. It carried over 13,000 passengers and
235,300 pounds of mail and freight.
First Helicopter Airmail Flight
US #C119 – Sikorsky built the first practical single-rotor helicopter. And the choppers used for these airmail flights were produced by his company
On October 1, 1947, the first official Airmail service flown by
helicopter was inaugurated in Los Angeles.
Prior to this, the postal service experimented with delivery by autogiro aircraft. On July 6, 1939, an autogiro was used to fly 52,128 first flight covers from the Central Airport at Camden, New Jersey, to the roof of the Philadelphia, Pennsylvania post office. Autogiros were then put into service in Chicago, New Orleans, Los Angeles, and Washington, DC.
However, the
autogiro’s time was short-lived with the advent of helicopter service.
Helicopter Airmail test flights had been conducted in Los Angeles, Chicago,
Boston, Philadelphia, Kansas City, and New York. After those proved successful,
helicopters were officially made part of the US Airmail fleet on June 2, 1947.
The US Civil
Aeronautics Board authorized Los Angeles Airways (LAA) to operate Airmail
service in Southern California. Their initial contract authorized them to serve
30 LA post offices for three years. They would use the Sikorsky S-51
helicopter.
The
first Airmail flight occurred on October 1, 1947. The service was so
popular, they expanded it to include two flights each day between the main
downtown post office and the Los Angeles International Airport.
By the
end of the first year of operations, LAA had a fleet of five S-51s carrying out
these deliveries. In that first year alone, they had carried 700 tons of
mail and made 40,000 landings throughout Los Angeles. The service
performed well, with a 95% reliability rate.
On December 17, 1953, LAA made the world’s first
air express helicopter deliveries. They also started providing scheduled
passenger service in 1954 using the larger S-55’s. LAA continued to
deliver Airmail by helicopter until 1964. By the time operations ceased, they
had carried over 82 million pounds of Airmail and over 25 million pounds of air
express mail. LAA ceased all of its operations in 1971.
Source : Mystic Stamp Co.
Beginners’ Section
Great Personalities
T.S. Eliot
US #2239 was
issued on Eliot’s 98th birthday.
Thomas Stearns Eliot was born on September 26, 1888, in St. Louis,
Missouri. Eliot attended schools in St. Louis and Massachusetts before entering
Harvard in 1906. After graduating, he worked at the school for a year as a
philosophy assistant before heading to France and England to further study
philosophy.
Eliot returned to Harvard to study Indian philosophy and Sanskrit but
was drawn back to England for study. He worked toward earning a PhD, but never
took his final oral exam. Instead, he married and worked in London as a teacher
and then a bank clerk.
During this time, Eliot befriended poet
Ezra Pound, who instantly recognized his poetic talent and encouraged him and
helped to get his work published. Eliot published his first poem of this period
in 1915 – “The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock.” Two years later he published
his first book of poems, Prufrock and Other Observations. The success of this
book helped establish Eliot as one of the world’s leading poets of the time. In
addition to writing poems and working a regular job, Eliot also wrote literary
criticism and reviews that were also well respected.
In 1922,
Eliot published “The Waste Land,” a long and complex story of postwar
disillusionment. “The Waste Land” was instantly recognized throughout the
literary world and came to be seen as one of the most influential poems of the
20th century. Eliot was seen as a revolutionist, introducing new subject matter
and techniques to poetry.
That same year Eliot founded the Criterion literary journal and worked as its editor for 17 years. In 1925, he left his bank job to work for the publishing house, Faber and Faber. He would spend the rest of his life there, encouraging young poets. Eliot also continued to write his own work. He only published two or three poems a year, demanding that they “should be perfect in their kind, so that each should be an event.”
US #3190b from
the 1980s Celebrate the Century sheet
Eliot became a British
citizen in 1927 and converted to Anglicanism, which is reflected in his poem
“Ash Wednesday.” During his career, Eliot also wrote seven plays, including
Murder in the Cathedral and The Cocktail Party. The beloved play Cats was based
on Eliot’s series of 14 poems, Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats. He also won
the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1948.
Eliot died of
emphysema on January 4, 1965, in London. He is often seen as one of the 20th
century’s major poets.
Source : Mystic
Stamp Co.
Superstar Athlete - Jesse Owens
Born on September 12, 1913, Jesse Owens broke several track and field records and won four Olympic gold medals. He was ranked as the greatest athlete in the history of his sport.
The youngest of ten children, Owens spent his childhood in Alabama and
then Ohio. He took on various jobs as a child to help out the family, including
delivering groceries, loading freight cars, and working in a shoe repair store.
He discovered his passion for running at an early age, which eventually earned
him national attention in high school when he tied the world record for the
100-yard dash.
Owens’s star continued to shine in
college. Attending Ohio State University, he became known as the “Buckeye
Bullet.” Owens won a record eight individual NCAA championships. Then, on May
25, 1935, at the Big Ten Track Meet, he set three world records (long jump,
220-yard sprint, and 220-yard low hurdles) and tied a fourth (100-yard dash) in
the course of just 45 minutes. It’s been called “the greatest 45 minutes ever
in sport.”
The following year
Owens competed in the Berlin Olympics in Germany. Nazi dictator Adolph Hitler
had planned to use the games as a display of German power and superiority.
Hitler believed that Germans were the master race, and that European athletes
were superior to any in the world, especially to minority athletes. Posters
portraying this idea were hanging all over Berlin.
A German won the first event of the games, the shot put. Hitler met with this man to publicly congratulate him. But then Owens won the broad jump, and broke the world and Olympic records in the 200-meter dash. His appearance at the Olympics was completed the next day, when he was a member of the record-breaking 400-meter relay team. In all, Owens won four gold medals at those games, making him the most successful athlete of the competition credited with obliterating Hitler’s claims of Aryan superiority.
US #2496 was issued in a booklet honoring five gold
medal Olympians.
For many years, it was stated that
Hitler only shook the hands of German victors at the games, some claiming he
intentionally snubbed Owens. However, in later years Owens revealed he had a
photograph of himself shaking hands with Hitler behind the honor stand, which
is why international press didn’t capture it. Owens claimed it was “one of my
most beautiful moments.” Though some back up his story, it’s unknown where the
photo is today.
When he returned to America, President Franklin Roosevelt didn’t invite
Owens to the White House. Owens went on to support Roosevelt’s opponent, Alf
Landon, in the 1936 presidential race. At a speech that year, he stated,
“Hitler didn’t snub me – it was our president who snubbed me. The president
didn’t even send me a telegram.”
After the Olympics, Owens and the rest of the Olympic team were invited
to compete in Switzerland. Owens declined, opting to return to the US to take
advantage of commercial offers he’d received. However, this upset American
athletic officials who withdrew his amateur status, ending his career.
Owens was unable to formally compete for the rest of his life, though he remained connected to sports. He helped form the West Coast Baseball Association (WCBA) and was vice president of one of the teams. He toured with the team and entertained audiences between doubleheaders by racing against horses. He went on to try out other business ventures and was later a US goodwill ambassador. Owens died on March 31, 1980.
Source : Mystic
Stamp Co.
New issues from other countries
Aland
9 September 2024
: On the Islet
On the Islet
Given free rein to
interpret a stamp motif for Åland Post, visual artist Carolina Sundelin was
inspired by the floral splendour and vegetation on the archipelago islets
around Åland. As starting point, she chose chives which grow wild on many Åland
islands and which Carolina thinks of as “the lavender of the Nordics”. The
stamp features several of the flowers that thrive in the Åland archipelago,
including chives, tansy, goldmoss stonecrop, sea campion, sea aster, and purple
loosestrife.
Armenia
1 October 2024 : Eurasian Intergovernmental Council,
On October 1st, 2024, within the framework of the meeting of the Eurasian Intergovernmental Council, one postage stamp dedicated to the theme “Eurasian Economic Union” has been put into circulation.
The Eurasian Economic Union is an
international organization of regional economic integration. It has the
international legal personality and was established by the Treaty on the
Eurasian Economic Union signed on May 29, 2014 in Astana. The member-states of
the Eurasian Economic Union are the Republic of Armenia, the Republic of
Belarus, the Republic of Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic and the Russian
Federation.
Netherlands
30 September
2024 : Shaping the Future Together
Shaping the Future Together
On 30 September 2024, PostNL issued the stamp sheet Shaping the future together. The reason for this release is the congress of the Association of Space Explorers (ASE) in Noordwijk which starts on 30 September. More than 100 astronauts will come to the Netherlands for this congress hosted by the astronaut André Kuipers. The Shaping the future together stamps each have a value of 1 for mail weighing up to 20 grams with a destination within the Netherlands. The price for a sheet of 6 stamps is €6.84.
2 October 2024 : Crypto Stamp 3 Dragon
New addition to the magical world of
crypto stamps Dragon!
New Zealand
16 September 2024 : Bird of the Year
16 September 2024 : Bird of the Year
For a century Forest & Bird has
worked with supporters, members, communities and government to protect and
restore Aotearoa New Zealand’s environment and native species. Funded solely by
memberships, donations and bequests, the organisation is a singular voice for
nature. Each year the organisation runs internationally recognised fundraising
campaign Bird of the Year.
2 October 2024 :Christmas 2024
Miniature Sheets
Self Adhesive FDC
Portugal
1 October 2024
: Portuguese Rice, A Gastronomical World
The stamp issue that
complements the CTT’s thematic book Arroz Português – Um Mundo Gastronómico
(Portuguese rice – a gastronomic world), by Fortunato da Câmara, depicts the
most important rice-growing regions in the country – Mondego, Sado, Sorraia and
Tejo – in each case exploring the culinary context through a recipe in which
the traditional grain of each of these regions is the star of the show.
The recipes chosen to
identify this mouthwatering heritage were ‘Arroz de Cabrito’ (rice with goat
meat) for the flood plains of the river Sorraia, ‘Arroz de Grelos’ (rice with
greens) for the rice fields of the river Sado and ‘Arroz de Bacalhau’ (rice with
salt cod) for the marshlands of the river Tejo.
And since no
description of gastronomic rice in Portugal would be complete without the
quintessence of Minho cuisine that is ‘Arroz de Lampreia’ (rice with lamprey),
this was the dish chosen to represent the flooded fields of Baixo Mondego,
where lamprey is a long-standing tradition.
Romania
2 October 2024 – Chyrsenthemum set
Chrysanthemums belong to the botanical genus
Chrysanthemum in the family Asteraceae (Compositae). Their name derives from
the Greek words “chrysos” meaning gold and “anthemon” meaning flower.
There are about 200 known species of the genus
Chrysanthemum, but the exact number is difficult to pin down due to taxonomic
changes. Thus, some species that have been classified in the genus
Chrysanthemum, can now be assigned to other genera such as Leucanthemum,
Leucanthemopsis, Argyranthemum, Tanacetum etc. For example, the daisy was known
as Chrysanthemum leucanthemum. Now, the valid name is Leucanthemum vulgare.
Species of the genus Chrysanthemum are
widespread in eastern Europe, Asia, Canada, subarctic America. There are no
native species of Chrysanthemum in the Romanian flora, if we consider the
current nomenclature. In ornamental culture, however, we have many species and
countless cultivars derived from them.
The best-known are Chrysanthemum indicum
(tufănele or dumitrițe), native to China, Korea and Japan, and Chrysanthemum ×
morifolium, a hybrid native to China. Both species are perennials with late
annual flowering (August - November). The inflorescences are solitary or
numerous, ranging from daisy-like to globose, with straight or curved, outward-
or inward-facing, narrow or wide, straight or curved ligulate flowers in a wide
variety of colours. Interestingly, chrysanthemum plants can be trained to grow not
only upright, but also in cascade or bonsai forms.
Chrysanthemums were introduced into cultivation
over 2500 years ago in China, where they are still popular today.
Chrysanthemums are also very popular in Japan, where they are used not only as
a decorative plant, but also for flavouring drinks or making salads (fresh
flowers). Chrysanthemum
The postage stamps issue presents lovers
of beauty with images of flowers often known as tufănele, dumitrițe or autumn
daisies, which, in popular belief, symbolize beauty, longevity, and
rejuvenation. It is a symbol of optimism and joy. In Japan, chrysanthemums are
celebrated annually during the Festival of Happiness. The chrysanthemum was
also adopted as the seal of the Emperor of Japan.
United Nations
1 October 2024 : International
Day of Older Persons
International Day of
Older Persons
The International Day of Older Persons is observed by the United Nations
on 1 October annually and to mark this occasion, the United Nations Postal
Administration is issuing 3 stamp sheets of 10 stamps each on 1 October 2024.
Population ageing is a major global trend reshaping societies worldwide.
Life expectancy at birth now exceeds 75 years in half of the world’s countries,
25 years longer than in 1950. By 2030, older persons are projected to outnumber
youth globally, with this increase most rapid in developing countries. This
demographic shift has significantly transformed the caregiving landscape,
encompassing a wide range of needs, such as the demand for comprehensive
healthcare, care, and social support services.
In recognition of these challenges and opportunities, the 2024 UN
International Day of Older Persons will focus on the theme “Ageing with
Dignity: The Importance of Strengthening Care and Support Systems for Older
Persons Worldwide”. The day will highlight the urgent need to expand training
and educational opportunities in geriatrics and gerontology, address the global
shortage of care workers, and recognize the diverse contributions of
caregivers.
Older persons are invaluable sources of knowledge and experience and
have much to contribute towards peace, sustainable development, and protecting
our planet. A longer life brings with it opportunities, not only for older
people and their families, but also for communities and societies. Supportive
environments play a vital role in assisting older individuals to maintain their
activity levels and independence.
A souvenir card with a statement by António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations and Junhua Li, Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs is also issued .
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
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 October 2024 issue edited by Mohanachandran Nair: email : apa.tvpm@gmail.com
- Judaica Thematic
Society, UK . Society Newsletter October 2024 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 Postal Pictorial Place Cancellation ; Sushil Mehra - Bangalore ; Dr. Adiitya Singh- Lucknow; Ajit Kumar Raut-Bhubaneshwar
Address for communication:
Jeevan Jyoti, 509, Design Arcade, Chandrabani, Wildlife
Institute Road, Dehradun-248001. India .
e-mail
– j.jyoti9@gmail.com
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Happy Collecting ……….
Rainbow Stamp News is edited and
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