Philately

The study and collection of postage stamps, postal stationery and related postal history.

Related Terms

Perforation

The rows of holes punched between stamps to make separation easier.

Imperforate

A stamp issued without perforations and requiring cutting from a sheet.

Watermark

A design embedded into stamp paper to help prevent counterfeiting.

Gum

The adhesive coating applied to the back of a stamp.

Original Gum

The stamp’s original adhesive layer as issued by the postal authority.

Mint

A stamp in unused condition, often retaining its original gum.

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