Barack Obama Stamps Have International Appeal

Stamp collectors may find these stamps interesting, no matter which side of the political spectrum you align yourself with.

Although you must wait a while for the United States postage stamps to be issued, we can usually count on the international community to supply certain stamps that would create great interest, to be released at a much faster rate. Stamp Center has several postage stamps available that honor President Barack Obama. These beautiful stamps have been issued by the following Nation’s:

Tanzania

Sierra Leone

St. Vincent/Canouan

St. Vincent/Union

St. Vincent/Bequia

St. Vincent – a couple of different ones to choose from

Palau

Liberia

Grenada

Grenada Grenadines

Gambia

Nevis

Some of the stamps issued include the White House or the Capitol as a backdrop and others feature the Presidential seal as a backdrop. All of the stamps feature Obama with his trademark friendly grin. The United States is represented well on many of these stamps as they showcase “Old Glory” waving in the background. All of the stamps feature Obama with his trademark friendly grin.

The stamps issued from Tanzania have one in the set that includes Michelle Obama, the Presidents wife. The stamp issued from St. Vincent/Union features a background of people holding signs from either the inauguration or perhaps an Obama rally. I wonder if those people even know that they are issued on an official postage stamp. Unless they are collectors and have looked, it is doubtful!

Please stop by Stamp Center and check out all of the Barack Obama postage stamps that are currently available.

2009 World Stamp Exhibition

First the actual Olympics and now the “Olympics of stamp collecting” is gracing the land of China. Beginning on April 10th and running through April 16, 2009, the 2009 World Stamp Exhibition is the place to be to see top philatelic issues from around the globe.

Over 110 countries and regions have brought together more than 3,200 valuable framed stamp collections to be viewed by the public. The entries will also be appraised by world class leaders of philately. More than sixty international stamp experts will review the entries and eight medals will be awarded before the end of the Exhibition. An unprecedented amount of attendees will have their chance on the bidding of rare stamps at the auction as well.

Of the 3,200 framed entries, 80 frames of world renowned stamps are on display. The British royal family has even sent their prized Penny Black which was issued in 1840. It was the first adhesive postage stamp to ever be issued in the world. Also on public display for the first time are stamps collected by the China National Post and Postage Stamp Museum.

There are 24 special Peony stamps issued from various nations to commemorate the Luoyang Peony Festival. China has released 60 commemorative envelopes especially designed for the Exhibition.

The World Stamp Exhibition travels to a new location each year. Expect to see the 2010 World Stamp Exhibition in South Africa.

YMCA Postage Stamps Part II Of II

In continuation from the post on Wednesday…

The YMCA was formed in the United States in Boston, Massachusetts, on December 29, 1851. The YMCA has an interesting connection to early postage stamp history. During the United States Civil War, many soldiers did not have stamps to use on their mail that they were sending home. When the Post Office received these letters, they were sent to the “Dead Letter Office” because most of the letters did not have a return address on the envelope.

When the YMCA found out that many letters were not being delivered home, they decided to help out the soldiers. The YMCA left unused postage stamps at various Post Offices with instructions for postal clerks to use the stamps on any soldier’s mail that arrived without a stamp or was short the amount of postage that was required to mail the envelope to its intended destination. When a stamp was used on the envelope, a special label was applied to the front of the letter so that the recipient knew that the YMCA had supplied the stamp. This label also let people know of the YMCA’s need for monetary donations to carry on its charitable work around the United States.

YMCA fans will be glad to know that Stamp Center has several YMCA postage stamps issued from Malta, Peru, Aruba, New Zealand and Canada available to add to their stamp collection.

YMCA Postage Stamps Part I Of II

The Young Men’s Christian Association; otherwise know as the “YMCA” or the “Y” for short; was founded in London, England on June 6, 1844. Originally the group was formed in response to the unhealthy social conditions arising at the end of the Industrial Revolution. The YMCA helped men put Christian principles into practice during their daily lives. In the mid 1800’s, many men arrived in London to find work. Upon their arrival, many workers found the living and working conditions unsafe. The YMCA was formed to give these men a choice between life on the streets and a life of prayer and Bible study. The thing that made the YMCA stand out in the 1800’s (and continues today) is that it did not matter what religion or social class you originated from. All men were treated equal in the eyes of the YMCA. Eventually, the same premise spread to include women and children of all races, religions and nationalities.

Over the years, many countries have issued commemorative postage stamps to honor the YMCA. India issued a stamp to celebrate the 350+ YMCA’s sites that are spread out over most of the major cities, towns and villages around the country. Peru issued a stamp to commemorate the 85th Anniversary of the YMCA. Aruba issued a commemorative stamp that features roller skating and basketball for their YMCA 50th Anniversary. New Zealand issued their YMCA
commemorative postage stamp along side of the Lion’s International and Rotary Club stamps. Canada issued their four million commemorative stamps in 2001 to celebrate the YMCA’s 150th Anniversary.

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

Ireland’s First Braille Postage Stamp

On July 7, 2006, Ireland issued their first Braille postage stamp. The 48 cent stamp marked the 30th anniversary of the Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind. The stamp features a guide dog silhouette design with the denomination of the stamp in Braille. This multicolor postage stamp was wildly popular upon its release in Ireland.

The Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind is the only supplier of guide dogs for vision impaired and the blind in Ireland. They also provide assistance dogs to children with Autism. These amazing dogs allow all recipients the opportunity to function fully and independently in society, thereby creating a better quality of life.

It takes approximately eight months to fully train a dog to be service provider. The most commonly used dog breeds are the Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, Labrador cross Golden Retriever, German Shepherd, German Shepherd cross Golden Retriever, Labra-doodle (Labrador cross Standard Poodle), and the Golden-doodle (Golden Retriever cross Standard Poodle).

All guide dogs are provided free of charge at the Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind. As a result, fundraising is a crucial element to their success. Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind collects used postage stamps and sells them to stamp collecting companies who in turn pays for the stamps by the pound. If you have used postage stamps that you do not need, you can send them to Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind, National Headquarters & Training Centre, Model Farm Road, Cork or contact the American branch of the IGDB at 212 534 8867 for more information.

Getting A Piece Of The Rock

In America, when I think of “Gibraltar”, I remember the Prudential Insurance Company’s advertising theme slogan that was sung “Get a piece of the rock!” In 2002, the country Gibraltar offered just that, a piece of the actual rock. These unusual postage stamps join the growing list as one of the most interesting postage stamps of all time.

These stamps allowed you to own a piece of this amazing natural landmark by purchasing postage stamps. There were four stamps in the set. Each postage stamp is embellished with finely pulverized pieces of limestone rock dust that was bored out of the center of the Rock of Gibraltar. They were the first postage stamps ever to be produced with actual rock.

Gibraltar is rich in history dating from 711 A.D. There are traces of cave occupation which date back 40,000 years. Gibraltar is a self governing British colony that is only 2 ¼ square miles. It sits on the Strait of Gibraltar, which separates the Atlantic from the Mediterranean, and Europe from Africa. It has its own currency, radio station, newspaper, television station, naval and military troops, airport, and postage stamps.

Gibraltar is well known for their beautiful stamp sets. If you are interested in fantastic stamps issued from Gibraltar, come see what Stamp Center has to offer.

Prince Rainier’s Stamp Collection Part II Of II

Continuing from Wednesday…

Prince Rainier III is quoted as saying that stamps are “The best ambassador of a country.” Prince Rainier continued to add stamps and covers to the Royal collection throughout his years of reign. Each stamp in the collection is in chronological order and specifically classified. There are three main time periods that Prince Rainier’s collection maintains.

Les Precurseurs, otherwise known as the “Forerunners”, contains stamps that date back to 1641. This section also contains French and Sardinian postmarks used in Monaco and Menton. Those postmarks were issued prior to 1885 when Monaco began issuing their own postage stamps.

“Les Modernes”, otherwise known as the “Modern” section, dates back to 1921 and up through current day issues. Prince Rainier III and Prince Louis II postage stamps are stored in this set as well as many other commemorative stamps.

“Les Classiques”, otherwise known as the “Classics” feature issues issues of Monegasque stamps from 1885 to 1921 covering the reigns of Charles III and Albert I.

Many of the postage stamps that are in Prince Rainier’s collection can also be found at The Museum of Coins and Stamps in Monaco. The Prince founded the museum to allow the public to become more acquainted with philately. According to the Monaco’s official website, “The Rare Stamp Room is the high point of the Museum where priceless items are on display, including a « strip of 5 Charles III 5 franc stamps » and an envelope sent from Menton on 12th April 1851 with one of the first issues of the Sardinian stamp that was then used in the Principality.

Prince Rainier died on April 6, 2005. Stamp Center has the Prince Rainier III souvenir sheet as well as other beautiful postage stamps issued from Monaco in stock and ready to ship to you.

2004 Entente Cordiale Postage Stamps Part II Of II

Continuing from Friday…

There are a couple of interesting things you should know about this stamp set. There were two stamps issued to celebrate the Entente Cordiale. Both France and England released the exact same stamps simultaneously. The stamps feature designs that are abstract paintings by one French artist (Sonia Delaunay 1855-1979) and one British artist (Sir Terry Frost 1915-2003). In small print in the upper left corner is the caption “Entente Cordiale 1904-2004.”

Apparently when the Royal Mail unveiled the stamps at the press briefing, the people in attendance were not pleased with these stamps. In the May issue of “Scott Stamp Monthly”, James Mackay described how the press release was going smoothly and then “all Hell broke loose.”

The renowned British philatelic journalist, Otto Hornung, denounced them as “meaningless and caption-less travesties.” Another journalist on the scene, Peter Jennings” denounced the stamps by calling them “crap”. The journalists thought that other art pieces would be more appropriate and more recognizable for the citizens of both countries.

I find it interesting that President Sarkozy holds these stamps in such high regard. I guess if the Queen of England gave some stamps to me, I would feel the same way though!

2004 Entente Cordiale Postage Stamps Part I Of II

On Wednesday I wrote about how President Sarkozy of France has taken up the hobby of stamp collecting. As previously reported, one of his prize possessions is the Entente Cordiale postage stamps given to him by Queen Elizabeth last year. The stamps were originally issued by Great Britain in April of 2004.

The Entente Cordial postage stamps were issued to commemorate the 100th anniversary of an agreement between France and Britain that settled the colonial disputes between them. This agreement eventually led to an alliance between the two nations.

Britain and France share a rich history of war and peace. It was not until 1898 that the two powerful countries, who continued to seek expansion, ended up in the same location. The French wanted to increase their influence in Sudan as part of their expansion from West Africa. The British were expanding their territory from Egypt to the south. Both countries had troops arrive at Marchand, Fashoda, and Kitchener at the same time. It was decided that rather than fight for territory, British, Egyptian and French flags would all be flown together from the fort. This unprecedented agreement ended the colonial rivalry, and was officially signed on April 8, 1904.

Please check back Monday for the conclusion to the story.

When Philately And A Presidency Collide

When do stamp collecting and politics appear in the same newspaper article? When the President of France decides to take up this fantastic hobby!

President Sarkozy, who has been known to be unpredictable and have a hot temper in the past, is enjoying his new found love…stamp collecting. This wife, Carla Bruni reports that she is glad that he has taken up such a calming activity as well.

His new passion is even being fueled by the upper echelon of political society. At a visit to Windsor Castle last year, Queen Elizabeth gave President Sarkozy a set issued by the Royal Mail in 2004. These stamps were issued to celebrate the centenary of the Entente Cordiale (Sarkozy’s now prize possessions) and many new stamp releases from Great Britain were supplied personally by the Queen. Arnold Schwarzenegger, the Governor of California, gave him a leather album filled with postage stamps as well. Other heads of state are jumping on the band wagon and sharing their stamps too. His collection to date is already quite extensive. I guess this is just another bonus given to a seated President. I wonder what Barack Obama will have in store for Sarkozy in the future.

President Sarkozy is now sponsoring a newly formed stamp club called the Elysee Philatelist Club, which is named after his official residence.

Other famed heads of state stamp collectors include Franklin Delano Roosevelt, King George V, Prince Albert, and Tzar Nicholas III of Russia, Prince Rainier III of Monaco and King Carol II of Romania II, to name a few.

Stamps For Prince William’s 21st Birthday

Great Britain’s Royal Family is no stranger to having postage stamps issued in their honor. In fact, there have been stamps issued for family members since the beginning of their postage history. You can find various stamps with their image issued from many countries around the globe.

In 2003, Great Britain announced that they would issue a special commemorative stamp for Prince William’s 21st birthday. There were four stamps in the series with varying values. They were the first ever to be released in celebration of a Royal birthday. The Royal Mail printed 20 million of these princely postage stamps, which were quickly a best seller.

Critics have wondered if issuing these commemorative stamps were really a noteworthy event or if the Royal Mail was using Prince William as a way to make money from collectors and fans. Regardless of their motives, these stamps soared in popularity, not only in Great Britain, but around the world. The public could not get enough of these little images of the very popular Prince. Japan, Germany and the United States in particular, all clamored to get their hands on these stamps as well.

Prince William is the son of Prince Charles and the late Princess Diana. He is next in line to the throne after his father. Check out the many Prince William postage stamps from around the world available at Stamp Center.

Another Stamp That Smells

Stamp collecting has been around since the first postage stamp was invented. There are so many varieties for so many occasions. There are plenty of plain everyday stamps out on the market and ones so special that collectors will fight and pay big dollars for them. Just like the saying goes for people “there is someone for everyone”, there certainly is a market for most every type of stamp made. For some countries, stamp sales are their most valuable commodity. Collectors enable a nearly 100 percent profit for a postal administration that produces an amazing specimen.

Brazil produced a neat stamp in 1999 that had a smell of burnt wood. The stamps were part of Brazil's forest fire prevention efforts. There were four stamps in the set. They featured a burnt tree trunk, a leaf, a flower and an anteater. The stamp campaign focused its efforts on bringing awareness to the damages that will happen in a forest fire. The smell was meant to remind people of the dangers of forest fire.

This stamp brings community awareness to a new level. It would be a cool stamp to have in a collection. If the United States were to make a smelly stamp, what would you vote for it to be?

If you are looking for other Brazil postage stamps; pop on over to Stamp Center to see what we have in stock for you.

Official Worldwide Postage Stamp Collection for the Games of the XXIX Olympiad

China has done an amazing job hosting the Olympics this year. There have been many creative and interesting programs put in place that will be hard to beat when the Summer Olympics roll around four years from now.

For the first time ever, for any Olympic Games, there is a special stamp collection available to collectors worldwide. This rare souvenir set is a complete collection of all the postage stamps made for the Olympic Games (prior to the games). The collection has been put together by the China National Philatelic Corporation with approval by International Olympic Committee, and Beijing Organizing Committee for the Games of the XXIX Olympiad.

The stamp set is titled the “Official Worldwide Postage Stamp Collection for the Games of the XXIX Olympiad”. The stamp collection is a compilation of more than 120 countries’ postages stamps made especially to honor the Beijing Olympics Games. This joint stamp collection truly shows how countries can come together in good spirit and games.

This set is the only stamp set to ever experience this much international participation. There are only 30,000 sets that will be issued world wide. Each set comes in 4 volumes. The price is $4,257 and can be obtained in post offices around China. If you are interested in purchasing this collectors item, call (8610) 65103556 for more information.

More Olympic Stamps

China is loving being host of the Olympic Games! As of today, China is leading the world in Olympic gold medals. Philatelists are able to bring home the gold as well this year! China has been releasing new stamps to honor their Gold Medal winners. Stamps are being issued within 48 hours of each and every gold medal win. The first set of stamps has already been issued. Female weightlifter, Chen Xiexia, has been honored with the first gold medal stamp,
from China, which began selling on August 10th.

According to the stamps' publisher, the China National Philatelic Corporation, stamp folders and commemorative first day covers are also available for purchase. The company says the stamp folders include nine stamps for single and double players and five for team players.

Other countries are deciding to feature their gold medal winning athletes on postage stamps as well. Australian swimming great, Stephanie Rice, is the first to be honored with a postage stamp. She won the women’s 400 meter individual medley.

The Australia Post will also be releasing stamps for every Australian gold medalist from the Olympic Games in Beijing. All stamps will be available 2 days after the gold medal is won as well.Don’t you just love the Olympics? For more Beijing Olympic stamps, click here.

Beijing Olympic Stamps

My parents instilled me a love for the Olympic Games, especially the summer Olympics. With the games in Beijing this year, I find myself staying up late, rooting for Team USA, being in awe of the amazing talents showcased from each nation and keeping track of the medals that were won by all. Simply put, it’s just plain fun to watch all of the athletes compete in these competitions. That being said, I thought I would showcase some of the wonderful stamps being offered to honor the Beijing Olympic Games.

In true Olympic host style, China released their initial stamps to commemorate Olympic venues, well before the games began. There are a total of six philatelic products that showcase the China Agricultural University Gymnasium, The Laoshan Velodrome, the National Indoor Stadium, the Peking University Gymnasium, the National Aquatics Center, and the Qingdao Olympic Sailing Center. There was an additional stamp issued to commemorate the National Stadium as well.

China also issued a series of stamps that commemorates both the Olympics and the Year of the Rat together. The stamps are titled “Olympic Year in China”. This is the 29th Olympiad and China skillfully integrated the 12 letters of “Olympic Games” with the 12 symbolic animals represented in the Chinese lunar calendar in a joint stamp design. Very cleaver!

Check back here for more Olympic stamp issue information.

The Mayday - Rescue At Sea Stamp Set New Release

The Royal Mail has just released a new stamp set that is sure to delight mariners worldwide. The Mayday – Rescue at Sea was released on March 13, 2008. The stamps mark the one hundred year adoption of the worldwide Morse Code distress signal at sea, the SOS, otherwise known as “. . . _ _ _ . . .”. The stamps feature the dots and dashes along the top and bottom edges.

The stamps were appropriately launched on board a Royal and National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) lifeboat thereby recognizing the importance of the RNLI’s marine search and rescue work. RNLI is a first class search and rescue service which aids in rescues off of England’s coast. It is not a government run agency. It is run strictly by volunteers who are dedicated to saving the lives of people who are in trouble at sea. They are a charity and rely on public finding to meet their financial needs. The RNLI is hoping to raise £20,000 in funding via the sale of
first day covers. The money raised will go towards the RNLI Memorial in Poole, England.

There are six stamps issued in this set with over 30 million stamps printed for distribution. Four of the stamps feature RNLI lifeboats and two of the stamps feature HM Coastguard helicopters.

Ian Fleming James Bond 007 Stamps - New Issue

“Would you like that shaken or stirred?” is one of the most famous lines in cinematic history. Great Britain has released a series of stamps to honor the life of the great writer Ian Fleming. Fleming published 14 James Bond books in his lifetime. He is best know for his James Bond 007 series, but has authored articles, other mystery books and one children’s novel about a magical car, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, that has been enjoyed the world over.

On January 8, 2008 the Royal Mail released a set of six stamps showing a selection of different James Bond book covers. The covers represented are: Casino Royal, Dr. No, From Russia With Love, For Your Eyes Only, Goldfinger and Diamonds Are Forever. The set of stamps were made extra-long marking the centenary of the birth Fleming.

On July 1, 2008, the Ian Fleming Publications will be releasing their very own First Day Cover that will incorporate all six of the special stamps that have already been launched.

Fleming worked for the Director of Naval Intelligence in the Royal Navy during World War II. His spy work provided much of his background for developing the James Bond series of books. Ian Lancaster Fleming was born on May 28, 1908 and died on August 12, 1964.

Australia - Zodiac Cartoon Stamps

The Zodiac is made up of twelve different sun signs. Your date of birth determines which one you are. These signs are believed to represent twelve basic personality types. Each sign emphases both positive and negative personality traits in people.

In Chinese astrology, the line of the equator is divided into 12 segments. Time is the main factor as the zodiac is operating in cycles of hours, months and years. Each sign of the zodiac is represented by an animal. 2008 is the Year of the Rat.

In Indian and Western astrology, the twelve signs are associated with the constellations. In contrast to Chinese astrology, the movement of the sun, moon and planets are emphasized instead of time. The rising sun is the most common feature of astrology among all three.

Western astrologers believe that no one person possess all of the characteristics of any one sign. In other words, each person, with their varying personality, is a combination of many different signs.

Australia has released some silly cartoon Zodiac Stamps. There are 12 stamps in the set. One stamp for each astrological sign. Each stamp personifies fun personality characteristics. If you would like more information on this adorable stamp set, visit www.stampcenter.com.

Great Britain - Paddington Bear Smilers Sheetlet

Paddington bear was created almost half a century ago by the English writer, Michael Bond. On Christmas Eve, in 1956, Mr. Bond was shopping in a London store when he saw a lone teddy bear on the store shelf. He felt sorry for it, so he brought it home as a present for his wife Brenda. He named the bear Paddington, because he lived near the Paddington Station in London.

Once home, he began to write stories of the little bear’s adventures. Within the first 10 days, he had penned enough stories for a book. Originally his writings were not directed towards children, but he did write about things that he liked reading about when he was young. His first book, A Bear Called Paddington, was published on October 13, 1958. Currently, there have been over 30 million Paddington books sold worldwide, in thirty languages.

The Paddington Bear has been involved in a number of charity projects over the years. He has worked with UNICEF in the USA and the American Red Cross. He is very well known in the United Kingdom for his works with Action Medical Research.

In January, 2006, England released a new Paddington Bear stamp. Stamps featured are self adhesive and come in a sheetlet of 20. These stamps celebrate the universal appeal of illustrated children’s literature. If you are interested in purchasing these adorable stamps visit www.stampcenter.com for more information.

Thailand - Princess Galyani Stamp

Thailand has a stamp issued of their beloved Princess Galyani. The Princess was born in London, England on May 6, 1923. She is currently 84 years old. She is the eldest sister of King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX).

She is a known world traveler who has keen interests in education and music. She has produced books and videos of the countries that she has visited. One of her prime focuses has been educating the Thai public on the culture and history of other countries. Thai television stations have aired her adventures before and during her travels to various lands.

She is the president and honorary president of many charitable organizations in Thailand. Some of her favorites are the Princess Mother’s Charity Fund, The Autistic Foundation of Thailand and the Cardiac Children’s Foundation.

In 1944, the Princess married a commoner and lost her Royal title. After her divorce, she worked tirelessly for the Thai people. In 1950, her Royal title was restored by HM the King as a reward for her hard work.

With education being her main passion, she has penned many books on history, philosophy and ancient ceremonies. The Princess has presided over many charity functions. She has particular interests in classical music and the arts.

Currently the Princesses health is deteriorating. She was admitted into the hospital in June of 2007. There it was discovered that she has stomach Cancer. In the past few weeks, other health complications have erupted. She is currently receiving treatments for blood clots to the brain. The Thai people are still hoping for a full recovery for their beloved Princess.

If you would like to purchase this individual stamp commemorating Princess Galyani, please visit www.stampcenter.com for more information.

Which Country Made the First Christmas Stamp?

A debate arises when trying to figure out which country came up with the first Christmas stamp. There is a Canadian stamp that says "XMAS 1898". One would think that this is the first, but researchers have found that it was actually made to mark the inauguration of the Imperial Penny Postage Rate on Christmas Day. The stamp is not Christmas themed. Instead it boasts a map It has been reported that this stamp was to be released on November 9th to honor the Prince of Wales. Queen Victoria's obvious annoyance with the stamp prompted the quick thinking of Mr. Mulock who quickly noted that it was instead made for "The Prince Of Peace".

In 1937, two stamps were issued by Austria that were billed as "Christmas Greeting Stamps". However; neither of these stamps bore a Christmas theme. One stamp was of a zodiac sign and one stamp was a rose. Brazil issued four semi-postal stamps in 1939. Semi postal stamps are stamps that are sold above the stamp value to raise money for a cause. These stamps were definitely Christmas themed, but they were not expressly made for the Christmas holiday.

In 1941, Hungary also issued a semi postal stamp, but these stamps additional fees were meant to pay for the "soldiers' Christmas" and should not be considered Christmas stamps.

It is widely believed that the first actual Christmas stamp was made by Hungry in 1943. It depicted a Nativity scene and it was expressly sold as a Christmas stamp.

New Hong Kong Stamp - The "Year Of The Rat"

Say goodbye to the Year of the Pig, welcome the Year of the Rat! On January 26, 2008, the Hong Kong Post will be releasing a new stamp sheetlet set entitled the “Year of the Rat”.

This stamp set is issued in celebration of the Chinese Lunar Calendar. There are four stamps in the set. This is the ninth issue of the third Lunar New Year series. The rat’s personality is captured in each stamp with a beautiful background embellished with silver foliage. It features genuine 22K and 24 K gold as well as 99.9% silver. This exciting special edition will make a wonderful addition to your collection.

In Western cultures, the rat is considered a bottom-dwelling carrier of disease. It is not well liked by most. In Eastern culture, the rat is revered for its quick wits and clever skills. Rats are considered a symbol of wealth and good luck to all that encounter them.

People born in the Year of the Rat (1912, 1924, 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984 and 1996) are considered to be hard workers who can achieve their goals, acquire possessions, and most likely are perfectionists. They are usually successful and have big ambitions. Rat people can be easily angered and are known for their thriftiness. They are also known for their charm and attention from the opposite sex.

England's Christmas Stamp Controversy

In November, England released 2 sets of first and second class Christmas stamps to the public. One set consists of two images of the Madonna and Child and the other set has six different angels. The problem is, not many people know that the traditional Christian stamps, the Madonna and Child, even exist.

As soon as the stamps went into circulation, complaints began to arise that the post offices were not advertising or promoting the new Christian stamp. Some places in England report that they had to ask for the Madonna and Child stamp by name, even as the angels were being offered up constantly to customers. Some customers believe that not promoting the Christian stamps were part of a plot to end the Christian Christmas stamp by erroneously proving that there is simply no public demand for them. There was no real explanation as to why there were tens of millions of Madonna and Child stamps printed while there were hundreds of millions of the secular-themed stamps.

The Post Office is trying to end the confusion and stop accusations that are being made as to why they have not put much effort into promoting their Christian stamps this year. In the past, the Royal Mail alternated Christian stamps and secular themed Christmas stamps every other year. This year, the stamp was supposed to be Christian based. It was announced this week that it was always the plan to run both stamps at Christmas this year. According to the Royal Mail, 2007 has served as the trial run for issuing both types of stamps from this year forward. Their spokesman denied that they are now bowing to public complaints and pressure by saying that "this was always the plan for these stamps".

Stamps for Democracy, A Great Cause

In a world of electronic banking, stamps are not always needed. Do you have extra unused postage stamps lying around the house? Are you willing to donate them to a worthwhile cause?

There are many charities that are helping our military troops in various locations throughout the world. There is certainly one new one worth taking a special interest in. Nancy Crescenzo, from Newtown Township, PA is collecting stamps for families who have soldiers serving in Afghanistan or Iraq. Her goal is to collect 10,000 unused stamps.

Many United States military families must decide if they will be able to send letters to their beloved soldiers or send in their required monthly payments to creditors. A simple stamp does not seem like much, but each 41 cent sticker could help someone communicate with their loved one who is serving our country.

Originally Nancy Crescenzo wanted to send stamps to soldiers overseas, but quickly learned that postage stamps are not necessary for soldiers in combat areas. Under The Supply Our Troops Act of 2005, soldiers are able to mail letters home, to the United States for free. She has since formed "Stamps for Democracy". It appears that her organization is the only one of its kind that is collecting stamps for our soldiers.

Each stamp that is donated will be distributed to various organizations that regularly send care packages to our soldiers.

If you are interested in donating stamps to this worthwhile cause, you may send them to: Nancy Crescenzo, 8 Bridal Rose Court, Newtown, PA 18940. For more information, e-mail her at citizens-for-one-voice@comcast.net.

The Year of the Monkey

The Chinese Zodiac is not only a significantly important tradition of the Chinese culture, but it is also a popular belief, and even a trend, in many countries, all over the world. Most people know of it simply through their local Chinese food restaurant’s place mat, or maybe even through a brief reference in a kung fu movie. Not many truly know the significance behind the actual meaning of the cute little animals depicted on the oriental calendars, such as the monkey portrayed on our authentic Year of the Monkey stamp from 1980.

The Chinese Zodiac is separated into twelve parts, each having its own unique animal with unique characteristics and symbolisms. These animals include the year of the ox, rat, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, sheep, monkey, rooster, dog, and boar. People who are born in the year of the monkey, in Zodiac tradition, are commonly known for being very astute when dealing with planning some sort of plot, especially in cases of mischievous planning. Supposedly, one who is born in this particular time frame is keen on his or her surroundings and is born with the innate ability to make quick and clever decisions when needed to do so.

Whether or not your birthday falls in the year of the monkey, this genuine, mint-condition Chinese stamp is an ingeniously clever addition to any collection.

Canadian Stamps – A Portrait of Paradise

Picture, if you will, a place with vibrant green trees, clear, blue skies, fresh, pure air, crisp, clean lakes and waterfalls, and people with nothing other than cheery dispositions to offer. No, this isn’t Hawaii or the Mediterranean islands; I’m referring to the paradise that is Canada.

This land is one of the most beautiful in the world. It’s hard to walk the streets of British Columbia without a smile on one’s face and a spring in one’s step. Often, pictures of this gorgeous country, in many of its aspects, are depicted on its stamps. On them, one can find illustrations or photographs of the vast array of wildlife in the area, depictions of Canada’s ancient Native American culture, portraits of the breathtaking waterside scenery, or pictures of majestic mountains. Also, very frequently depcted on the stamps are portraits of the Queen of England, who is also the Queen of Canada.

When Canadians began using stamps in 1851, they were bought and sold with British money, costing anywhere from half a penny to twelve pence. In 1859, when Canada changed to dollars and cents, the stamp prices changed, accordingly. These days, the really old Canadian stamps are worth quite a bit more.

If you’re a collector who’s interested in stamps that can take you to beautiful, wholesome places that can’t help but make one feel good, Canadian stamps are a great place to start.

Finland Showcases Fabulous Faberge Egg

With the dog days of summer nearly upon us, the icy days of winter hold a certain appeal. This gorgeous souvenir sheet, The Imperial Winter Egg by Carl Faberge, showcases one of the famous artist's most stunning decorative eggs. Embossed silver ice crystals frost across the surface of a crystal egg perched atop an icy mountain. Open the egg to reveal the delicate blooms of spring yet to come. This 2006 Finnish souvenir sheet, enhanced with exquisite gold and silver embossing, captures the magnificence of Faberge's masterpiece. Click the post title to order from County Stamp Center.

Faberge eggs are know the world over for their exquisite beauty and detailed craftsmanship. Created by Russian jeweller Peter Carl Faberge, the imperial eggs were crafted from gold and silver and encrusted with diamonds, emeralds, rubies and other precious stones. The first imperial egg was commissioned in 1885 by Czar Alexander III as an annual gift for his wife Maria. Faberge was appointed the court goldsmith the same year. Czar Nicholas II continued the practice, ordering annual Faberge eggs for both his mother and wife, Alexandra, until his overthrow and death in 1917. Faberge fled Russia during the October Revolution of 1917, travelling first to Finland, then later to Germany and finally Switzerland where he lived until his death in 1920.

Through stamps you can travel the world, delve into history and acquire the unattainable (who could afford a Faberge egg these days?). Whatever your interests, you'll find a wealth of fascinating stamps at County Stamp Center. Visit our website. County Stamp Center puts the stamp world at your fingertips.

Harry Potter Mania Grows With Release of Final Book

Have you finished it yet? That seems to be the question on the tip of every Harry Potter fan's tongue this weekend. Children and their parents are closeted inside, furiously reading to find out what happens to Harry and his wizardly friends. Who lives? Who dies? Will our hero vanquish the evil Lord Voldemort? We'll never tell, we're only on page 389!

J.K. Rowling's incredibly popular Harry Potter series came to a close with the long-awaited release this weekend of the final tome, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. Book stores and libraries sponsored Harry Potter festivals in cities across the country. Main Streets were transformed into Diagon Alley and Hogswarts' Great Hall. Fans roamed in wizardly attire, eagerly awaiting the midnight hour when they could finally buy the book. Pages were turning before would-be Muggles had even left the store.

Hailed by speed-reading reviewers as a wild, satisfying ride, the book nicely ties up myriad plot lines from the previous six books in the series. With more than 325 million copies of the first six Potter books sold worldwide, the final volume is expected to break first-day sales records.

County Stamp Center has a wonderful collection of Harry Potter stamps to please Muggles of all ages. Frame your favorites to commemorate the most amazing pop culture event of the past decade. Australia has just issued this wonderful deluxe souvenir sheet featuring Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. The 10-stamp set makes a dramatic addition to any collection. Click the post title to order.

View County Stamp Center's complete collection of Harry Potter stamps and order your favorites at our always low prices. Visit County Stamp Center for all your philatelic needs. County Stamp Center puts the stamp world at your fingertips.

Rotary International Marks 100+ Years of Service

Serving the world for just over a century, Rotary International is an international organization of business and professional leaders that provides humanitarian service around the world, building goodwill and peace in the process. Approximately 1.2 million strong, Rotarians are active in more than 200 countries.

The recipient of numerous Rotary International projects, Kenya celebrated the organization's centennial by issuing this four-value stamp set in 2005. Colorfully drawn, each stamp depicts a different aspect of Rotary service; click the post title to order from County Stamp Center.

The world's first service club, Rotary International grew from a small group of Chicago, Illinois professionals to encompass the globe by 1921. The Rotary Club of Chicago was initiated on February 23, 1905 by attorney Paul Harris who wanted to recapture the helpful small town spirit of his youth. The group's name comes from the early practice of rotating meetings at members' offices. Initially a professional organization, Rotarians soon started pooling resources to provide hands-on help to communities in need. Service Above Self became the organization's motto and guiding principle.

Visit the County Stamp Center website to view thousands of stamps on every imaginable subject. County Stamp Center puts the stamp world at your fingertips.

Fascinating Reptiles Featured on New Surinam Issue

They sit there staring with their little beady eyes, still as a rock, blending into the scenery as they warm themselves in the sun. You almost forget they're there until suddenly they snap or jerk or fork out an amazingly long tongue to catch some hapless insect that wandered into range. Reptiles are fascinating creatures.

While reptiles can be found on every continent except Antarctica, they are most prolific in the warmer climates of the tropics and subtropics. Referred to as cold-blooded or ectothermic, reptiles generate little body heat. To regulate their internal temperature, they must alternately gather and lose heat from the environment.

Since they don't need food to create body warmth, reptiles can survive on less food than comparably-sized mammals. Thick-skinned, with few exceptions, reptiles are covered by scales. Most are egg-laying and provide substantial initial care of their hatchlings.

Surinam has just issued this amazing 12-stamp collection of reptiles. Highly detailed full-color photographs practically leap off the page. Among the featured reptiles are toothy crocodiles, hooded iguanas, a variety of sea and land turtles and a number of lizards. Click the post title to order from County Stamp Center for the low price of only $10.29.

Visit the County Stamp Center website for all your philatelic needs. County Stamp Center puts the stamp world at your fingertips.

New May Issues Now Available at County Stamp Center

The May new issues are now available at County Stamp Center. Click the post title to view all 285 new stamps! There's tremendous variety in this newly issued batch. Among my favorites is this three-stamp series on shipwrecks from Australia. The drawings have the look of sailor's scrimshaw. In the early 1800s sailors used crude sailing needles to carve elaborate pictures into whale teeth or bone. Candle black, soot or tobacco juice were rubbed into the engravings to give them definition.

If you don't already get our newsletter, you could be missing out on some great specials and bargains. Sign up today. It's easy. Just go to the County Stamp Center website and enter your name and email address in the yellow boxes at the bottom of the right-hand column. Every month we'll send you an email newsletter with easy links to the newest issues, special offers, free shipping items and featured stamps.

You can also enter our monthly drawing. This month's prize is a new 32-page Lindner stock book, a $29 value. Click here to enter. Contest ends at midnight Eastern time on July 31, 2007.

You'll find everything you need for your stamp collecting hobby on the County Stamp Center website. We carry thousands of stamps from the newest issues to popular classics to oddities and rarities and everything in between! We also carry a nice selection supplies at excellent prices, including quality binders, books and albums. Come to County Stamp Center for all your philatelic needs.

Happy Birthday America!

Today we celebrate our nation's birthday. Just 231 and still going strong! Not bad for a country that, back at its beginning, was considered a misguided upstart with little hope of survival. But if America is anything, it is the land of opportunity where anyone can, like Horatio Alger, pull himself up by his bootstraps and make something of himself! It's the American dream, the promise of hope and opportunity that continues to draw to our shores the weak, the poor and the persecuted.

In tribute to America and all she stands for, France presented the magnificent statue Liberty Enlightening the World to the United States in 1886 to commemorate our nation's centennial. The most recognized icon of the United States, the statue stands on Liberty Island at the mouth of the Hudson River in New York Harbor, welcoming visitors, immigrants and Americans returning to our shores. Issued by France, the stamp shown is a magnificent portrayal of Lady Liberty in all her grandeur. Available at County Stamp Center for just $2.71, click the post title to order.

Crafted from copper by French sculptor Auguste Bartholdi, the underlying structure of the sculpture was engineered by Alexandre Gustave Eiffel, designer of the Eiffel Tower. The Statue of Liberty's typical green color is caused by the natural oxidation of the copper. Her seven point spiked crown represents the world's seven seas and continents. In her left hand she holds a stone tablet bearing the date of our nation's birth, July 4, 1776. In her right hand she holds aloft a flaming torch signifying enlightenment. The flame is covered in gold leaf. At 151 feet 1 inch tall standing atop a 154-foot foundation, Lady Liberty towers above the ships that ply the harbor beneath her gaze.

Lest we forget what America represents to the world, today particularly, we should remember the words of Emma Lazarus' poem, The New Colossus. Written in 1883, the poem was engraved on a bronze plaque and mounted inside the statue's pedestal in 1903.

"Give me your tired, your poor,
Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free,
The wretched refuse of your teeming shore.
Send these, the homeless, tempest-tost to me,
I lift my lamp beside the golden door!"

Year of the Pig a Good Omen for Stamp Collectors

Children born in the Chinese Year of the Pig are thought to be happy and honest. To have a child in the Year of the Pig is considered a favorable omen in Chinese culture where the twelfth sign of the Earthly Branches, the Pig, is associated with fertility and virility.

The Chinese Year of the Pig has generated of whole host of commemorative stamps -- from the comic to the sublime. The People's Republic of China recently issued this colorful, comic souvenir booklet. It's available at County Stamp Center for just $2.66. Click the post title to order.

In Chinese culture there are five types of pigs, named after the five Chinese elements: metal, water, wood, fire and earth. On our website you'll find Year of the Pig stamps of every stripe and color. There are cartoon pigs, gingham pigs, rainbow pigs, fanciful pigs, realistic pigs, charming pigs, wild pigs, and ethereal stylized pigs. To portray the porkers, stamp artists have used block prints, silk screens, photographs, paintings, drawings, wood cuts, even gold foil. There is such great variety, you'll want to collect them all. Click here to view our complete collection of Year of the Pig stamps.

For the latest stamp issues, visit the County Stamp Center website. Come to us for all your philatelic needs. We carry quality collecting supplies as well as thousands of fascinating stamps.

Wear Your Milk Mustache With Pride! It's National Dairy Month!

In honor of National Dairy Month, today we honor the cow. Without cows there would be no cold creamy ice cream cones, no thick delicious milk shakes, no after school milk and cookies, and no milk mustaches!

There are 1.4 billion head of cattle in the world today. With 400 million cows, India, where cows are revered, hosts the largest cattle population in the world. There are twice as many cows in Africa (200 million) as there are in the US (100 million). Brazil and China each have about 150 million head of cattle, but there are only about 130 million in all of Europe.

In the US, 90% of the dairy cows are Holsteins, but other breeds can be found on dairy farms, including Ayrshire, Brown Swiss, Guernsey, Jersey and Milking Shorthorn. The largest producers of milk in the world are India (91,940 tonnes) and the US (80, 265). That's a lot of ice cream!

The gentle brown-eyed cow is one of the featured barnyard animals in this delightful 2004 souvenir sheet from France; click the post title to order. You'll find a wide variety of stamps at County Stamp Center. Check out our website to see what's new. Visit County Stamp Center for all your philatelic needs.

Summer Is Here!

Ahhhhh. Summer. Every summer we would visit my grandmother in her cottage on the lake. I remember splashing in the cool lake water, wriggling my toes into the soft silty mud, squinting against the hot glare of the sun, the startling brush of an errant fish swimming past my legs -- idyllic days!

A delightful series of stamps issued by Sweden, Summer by the Lake captures all the memories of a visit to the lake -- picnics, fishing, swimming, boating, cavorting with the family dog. Click the post title to view the entire series and to order.

You'll find a large collection of summer-themed stamps at County Stamp Center. Visit our website and use our unique Quick Search feature to find exactly what you're looking for. Come to County Stamp Center for all your philatelic needs.

Stamps Celebrate 100 Years of Scouting

The worldwide scouting movement celebrates its 100th anniversary this year and the philatelic community is taking notice. Many countries have issued stamps showcasing scouting activities both worldwide and in their own countries.

Recently issued by Switzerland, this uniquely-shaped "tent" stamp recalls one of the best parts of scouting -- overnight campouts (click the post title to order). If you've ever been a scout, you must remember the fun of snuggling into a toasty sleeping bag after a long day of hiking. The smell of wood smoke and burning marshmallows permeates the air as scouts bed down for the night. Flashlights flicker on canvas walls as they huddle together, whispering ghost stores in the dark. Giggles are abruptly choked off as the scoutmaster crunches by giving the "lights out" warning.

Recall your days of scouting fun with stamps. County Stamp Center has a wide selection of scouting stamps. Visit our website and use our unique Quick Search feature to view our complete collection. Come to County Stamp Center for all your philatelic needs.

Penguins Are Centerpiece of Antarctic Tableau

In honor of Father's Day we pay homage to Emperor penguins, one of nature's most dedicated dads. Making their home in one of nature's bleakest, most forbidding climates, they brave raging storms in the dead of Antarctic winter to incubate a single egg and hatch a fuzzy chick. Pictured in the detail at left, Antarctica's famous penguins are the centerpiece of a marvelous tableau souvenir sheet recently issued by Japan. Only $14.72 at County Stamp Center, the full sheet is shown below (click the post title to order).

Commemorating Japan's 80th year of Antarctic research, this charming tableau depicts the hearty native inhabitants and wide range of research activities that take place on Earth's most inhospitable continent. On average, Antarctica is the coldest, driest, windiest continent with the highest average elevation of all the continents. With negligible rainfall, Antarctica's interior is technically the world's biggest desert.

In this barren landscape only cold-adapted plants and animals survive, including penguins, seals, mosses, lichens, algae -- and a flourishing international scientific community. While Antarctica has no permanent residents, it is home to nearly 4000 scientists in summer and 1000 in winter.

Fortunately, you don't have to brave icy, gale-force winds to experience the wonders of Antarctica. County Stamp Center carries a wide variety of stamps on the scientific endeavors, animal inhabitants and history of the ice continent. Visit our website and use our handy Quick Search feature to find what you're looking for. Visit County Stamp Center for all your philatelic needs. And Happy Father's Day to all the dads out there!

"Vampire" Moths Put the Bite on Summer

Colorful butterflies and moths flitting about the garden are one of summer's joys. Not so if you live in Finland. Vampire moths have invaded the usually chilly country, sinking their "fangs" into unsuspecting nature-lovers.

The steadily warming climate has changed the migration path of a species of moth that feeds on human blood, driving it north into Scandinavia. There have been nearly 200 signings of calyptra thalictri, the skin-piercing blood-sucker. The unusual behavior was first documented in Russia last summer. Only male moths suck blood, but both males and females can use their wicked "fangs" to pierce fruit and suck tears from large animals like elk and cows.

An unsettling thought, particularly given the beauty of butterflies and moths. Who knew some of them had a little "bite" underneath that glamorous facade! Fortunately, you have nothing to fear from the colorful African butterfly stamps shown. Issued by St. Thomas, the lovely 9-stamp sheetlet will make a delightful addition to any collection. Click the post title to order from County Stamp Center, and visit our website for all your philatelic needs.

Cartography Stamps Captivate Collectors

Spain has just issued two captivating cartography stamps. Fascinating in their detail, the stamps are engrossing studies of the fine art of mapmaking. Click the post title for details and to order.

Now made by computers with unassailable accuracy, maps used to be drawn by hand using pen and paper. Maps were drawn well before words were put to paper. The earliest know map, a wall painting in the ancient Turkish city of Catal Huyuk, is nearly 8,000 years old.

Early mapmakers were flagrant plagiarizers, generally copying material from colleagues without noting the source. Given the difficulty of physically verifying distances and features, errors were often republished for years, even decades, before being discovered (probably by some very irritated and frustrated traveller who had been sent miles out of his way by some errant mapmaker)! The first maps were more works of art than precise recordings of topography. Drawn with brushes and inks on parchment, mapmakers added fanciful embellishments to indicate features or unknowns. Dragons might straddle mountains and fierce sea creatures inhabit the oceans.

County Stamp Center has a wealth of interesting and unusual stamps. Visit our website to explore our vast collections. We sell quality collecting supplies too. Come to County Stamp Center for all your philatelic needs.

Guinea Stamp Set Honors African Development Bank

The African Development Bank makes loans and equity investments to foster the economic and social advancement of its member countries. Since it was established in 1964, the bank has financed thousands of initiatives, with an emphasis on poverty, women's roles, education and structural reforms.

In 1975 Guinea issued this special stamp set to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the African Development Bank. The imperforated set shows lions and elephants with the African pipeline, a bank project. Regularly priced at $14.95, the set is available at County Stamp Center for just $11.35 with free shipping. Click the post title to order.

Contest alert! Tonight at midnight (Eastern time) is your last chance to enter to win an exotic Indonesia gemstone sheet in our monthly contest. A $18.95 value, this special 2000 edition sheet is beautifully designed and showcases some of Indonesia's most precious gems. Click the link to enter. Visit County Stamp Center's website for all your philatelic needs.

Extended Guinea Collection Includes Mars Exploration Stamp

County Stamp Center is pleased to announce the addition of an extended collection of stamps from Guinea. A wide variety of topics is available, including this dramatic stamp commemorating Mars exploration (click the link to order). Other topics include animals, Africa, Tarzan, the Olympics, trains, space and satellites, soccer, artists, and much more. Click the post title to view our complete listing. You're sure to find a beautiful or unusual stamp to add to your collection.

Dozens of spacecraft have been launched towards Mars since the 1960s. Aimed at collecting data from the red plant in the hopes of unlocking Earth's past and shedding light on her future, probes have been launched by the US, Russia, Japan and Europe. An astounding run of bad luck including launch failures, communication gaffs and mysterious satellite disappearances led scientists to claim there was a Mars Curse. More than half of the missions launched to Mars have failed. Despite more recent success, researchers still joke about the Great Galactic Ghoul who subsists entirely on a diet of Mars probes!

Whatever your appetite, County Stamp Corner can feed it. We carry stamps and first day covers on every subject imaginable. Visit our website to browse our complete collection. Turn to County Stamp Center for all your philatelic needs.

Invention Stamps Honor Man's Search for a Better Mousetrap

They start out tinkering in the garage, gradually convert the kitchen into a makeshift lab, badger their friends into becoming test subjects -- and once in a while, actually strike it rich! The life of an inventor is not for the faint-hearted. Man's quest for a better mousetrap has led to the development of a startling array of often useful and sometimes silly inventions.

Consider these actual inventions from the Invention Connection:

• Sandwich Shop: a multi-layered plastic container with separate compartments for bread, meat, cheese, tomatoes, pickles, spread, etc. Keeps ingredients fresh until you're ready to eat. The disadvantage is you have to build your sandwich before you can eat it.
• Fly Vac: A battery-operated, hand-held vacuum that stuns flies with mothball vapor, then sweeps them up for disposal. Suggested for restaurants and commercial establishments where swatted fly carcasses might ruin the ambiance.
• Mirrored Oak Toilet Seat Lid: A mirror embedded into the top and/or inside of a toilet seat for guys who want to make sure they've zipped up when they're done.
• Opti-Cool Sunshades: A do-it-yourself sunglass kit that allows you to cut special UV-reducing vinyl cling film to the shape of your eyeglasses. Just stick the film on or peel it off as needed!

Honoring some of man's most durable contraptions, Great Britain recently issued the fascinating six-stamp sheetlet shown (click the post title to order). It's one of several in a series commemorating great inventions. At County Stamp Center, you'll find other captivating stamps celebrating some of mankind's greatest inventions; just click the link. Rube Goldberg would be proud! Visit the County Stamp Center website for all your philatelic needs.