A Valuable Stamp That Had No Value Part I Of II

Here’s a fun and interesting story about a special little stamp from the Netherlands.
The Dutch postal service was owned by the government up until 1989. In 1989, PPT Netherland (Post, Telegraaf, Telefoon) became independent from the government. After a while, the decision was made to separate into two separate entities (mail and phone serves). It was also the intention to bring the postal service to the stock market. PPT Post soon became the first mail company in the world to be listed on any stock market.

In an effort to bring attention to this landmark event, officials decided to offer something special to their customers. It was customary for the Post to send a catalog out to all patrons each January showing what services were offered, as well as the respective costs involved. In January of 1998, the people of the Netherlands received a special gift from the Post.
Inside of their usual catalog there was a very nice stamp addition. The stamp was adorned with a picture of diamonds with a red velvet like background. The jewels were in the shape of a “zero” on the stamp.

Please check back on Wednesday for the conclusion to this post.