Postage stamps are an adhesive label stuck on envelopes and other postal packages, as proof of the deposit of fee paid for postal services. The first country to issue postage stamps was United Kingdom.Postage stamps are traded through various outlets of the post office, and are issued by the government. Postage stamps are available in various forms and dimensions. There are memorial postage stamps committed to various important events. Postage stamps are also issued to give respect to national personalities, or other extremely important personalities. There are also a range of other types of postage stamps available that depict diverse cultures and geographical features. Many postage stamps also have birds and animals as their theme.
Postage stamps differ according to the way they are used. The main kinds of postage stamps in use are airmail stamps, postage due stamps, special delivery stamps, and express mail stamps. The rates of postage stamps usually differ according to the weight of the postal article and the nature of the mail.
Self-adhesive postage stamps and water-activated type of postage stamps are available. Postage stamps by and large have details such as the name of the country, year, and the value of the stamp. These days, there are postage stamps that are sold around the holidays that are a sign of the season, such as Christmas and Hanukkah. Individuals may also opt to buy postage stamps that have messages on them, such as stamps that are sold to generate funds for charities. Apart from, raising fund for charities, there are various other postage stamps that help medical institutions and health organizations raise adequate funds.
Philately is the collection and study of postage stamps, and many a philatelist would pay an exorbitant amount to get a rare stamp. Stamps that are collector?s items can be bought at auctions or online.
