Encyclopedia of United States Stamps and Stamp Collecting

Steven J. Rod
P.O. Box 6
Maplewood, NJ 07040    
 
Lynn Batdorf
6005 Kingsford Road
Bethesda, MD 20817
                         
           

The Encyclopedia of United States Stamps and Stamp Collecting was introduced at the Washington 2006 International Exhibition. The book produced by the United States Stamp Society and edited by Rodney A. Juell and Steven J. Rod introduces the reader to the full scope of United States stamps and stamp collecting. Beginning with an introduction to “stampless covers”  it then introduces the many stamps issued from their inception with the 1845 Postmasters’ Provisionals through the stamps of the early 21st century. Other chapters deal with “back-of-the-book” issues, including air mail, special delivery, U.S. possessions, revenue purposes, and postal stationery. The history of the Postal Service, the Bureau of Engraving and Printing, and various security printers is explored. Another section  highlights the technological innovations of stamp production, the history of the movement of the mails, markings applied to envelopes, and meters and machine generated postage.

Each of the sixty-two chapters employs a similar format, wherein an introductory article is followed by practical tips on collecting; an almanac of chronological dates to orient the reader within each historical era; a selection of quotes, both contemporaneous and modern, to provide context; examples of postal usage; and a compilation of references to which the reader can turn for more information. While the Encyclopedia will be welcomed by many advanced stamp collectors, it was written with the beginning collector in mind. It assumes no prior experience with collecting, and includes a comprehensive glossary of philatelic terms. The full color, hard-bound, 730 page book is generously illustrated with stamps, covers and related material.

The initial printing of 5000 copies sold out, and a reprint of 3000 copies with minor additions and typographical corrections was produced, which also sold out.

The Second Edition of the Encyclopedia of United States Stamps and Stamp Collecting will be released on the opening day of World Stamp Show-NY 2016, May 28 at 1pm in room 1E08 of the Javits Convention Center. Throughout the show the book will be available at a special show price of only $25. After the show the book will sell for $40. The second edition has been fully updated with new information.

More information and a complete table of contents can be found under Resources: Encyclopedia of United States Stamps: Click Here