"Stamp" - what is it, definition of the term
A postage label is a small, adhesive‑backed paper bearing a design and a monetary value, serving as proof that the required fee for mailing has been paid; the term also describes a handheld device that transfers ink to produce a repeated image on documents, often featuring subjects such as rodents for thematic collections.
Detailed information
Postage labels depicting rodents serve both commemorative and educational purposes. Early issues emerged in the late 19th century, when postal administrations began illustrating native fauna to promote national identity. The first known rodent-themed issue appeared in 1895, featuring a brown rat on a British colonial stamp; the design highlighted the animal’s role in disease transmission, aligning with public‑health campaigns of the era.
Subsequent releases expanded the motif to include various mouse species. Notable examples are:
- 1923 United States issue portraying a field mouse against a wheat background, emphasizing agricultural relevance.
- 1965 Japanese postal imprint showing a Japanese house mouse with traditional motifs, reflecting cultural symbolism.
- 1998 German series depicting a laboratory mouse alongside DNA strands, illustrating scientific advancement.
Collectors value these items for several reasons. The rarity of early rodent depictions creates high market demand; limited print runs and occasional misprints increase scarcity. Thematic relevance to pest‑control history adds scholarly interest, as many issues were issued concurrently with governmental campaigns against vermin. Philatelic catalogs assign specific catalog numbers, facilitating precise identification and appraisal.
Technical attributes vary across periods. Early designs employed line engraving, producing fine detail on the animal’s fur and facial features. Mid‑20th‑century issues shifted to photogravure, allowing richer tonal gradations. Modern releases often use digital printing, enabling vibrant colors and intricate background patterns. Paper quality ranges from standard cellulose to self‑adhesive polymer sheets, affecting durability and handling.
Preservation standards remain consistent. Store items in acid‑free sleeves, maintain a stable temperature of 18‑21 °C, and avoid direct sunlight to prevent fading of ink pigments, especially on the vivid hues used in recent rodent-themed releases. Proper cataloging, including issue date, country of origin, and denomination, supports both academic research and market transactions.