Coil Stamps
Coil stamps are a specialized form of postage stamp manufactured in a long strip and rolled into a coil. These stamps are designed for use in automated systems and high-volume mailing due to their ease of mechanized handling. Unlike sheet stamps, which are printed in large sheets and separated by perforation, coil stamps provide seamless extraction of single stamps or long strips, enhancing efficiency in mailing operations.
History and Development
The use of coil stamps became prevalent with the advent of mechanized mailing systems, particularly in large postal services like the United States Postal Service. These systems demanded a more efficient method to handle stamps compared to traditional sheets or booklet stamps. The industrial revolution and the subsequent rise of mass communication necessitated innovations in postal services, leading to the adoption of coil stamps in the early 20th century.
Design and Production
Coil stamps are typically printed in long vertical or horizontal strips. This method allows them to be rolled into coils of hundreds or thousands of stamps. The production process involves intricate printing techniques to ensure the continuous strip does not compromise the individual stamp's integrity.
An interesting aspect of coil stamp production is the plate number coil (PNC), which features a number on one of the stamps in a coil. This number indicates the plate used in printing and is a specific interest for philatelists, who study and collect stamps.
Variants and Errors
One of the most notable variants in coil stamps is the coil waste. These are stamps made from damaged or rejected printing stock intended for use as coil stamps. They have become collectible items due to their rarity and unique characteristics.
A famous example of a coil stamp is the 1935 Irish 2d coil stamp, known for its scarcity and experimental vertical coil design. Such stamps are highly valued in the philatelic community for their historical and production significance.
Usage in Modern Postal Systems
Today, coil stamps are still widely used in commercial mailing due to their efficiency. They are often seen in large corporate and institutional mailrooms, where speed and efficiency are paramount. The design of coil stamps continues to evolve, incorporating advanced features like self-adhesive technology to further improve their practicality.
Related Topics
Understanding coil stamps provides insight into the evolution of postal systems and the technological advancements that have shaped modern communication infrastructure.