As reported by the UPU FB account: A recent survey by Deutsche Post and DHL shows that two-thirds of Germans still love receiving postcards. They prefer them even over messages via social media, email or phone calls. Why? Because postcards are personal, thoughtful and tangible. They are something to pin on the fridge and keep Read more…
Bolaffi S.p.A. Announces the Death of its Honorary President Alberto Bolaffi Turin, July 16, 2025 – It is with deep sadness that Bolaffi company announces that its Honorary President, Italian Cavaliere del Lavoro (Order of Merit for Labor), Alberto Bolaffi passed away on July 16, at the age of 89. As the third-generation at the Read more…
“Trouble with Tariffs” is Chris King’s one-frame exhibit relating to British history, using picture postcards in an A3 format setup — a fine example of promoting philately through imagination and creativity. It focuses on the campaign in 1903 for tariff reform led by Joseph Chamberlain, a prominent Conservative politician, which split the government and triggered Read more…
BEPHILA 2026 is more than a Bilateral Competitive Exhibition! The organising team has already been asked several times by collectors who are not members of the BDPh or the Swedish Federation SFF whether they too can take part in the exhibition. The clear answer to this question is: YES!! In accordance with the show regulations, Read more…
We’ve received the following announcement from the PTS and Stampex: Every year, we print thousands of postcards to give out FREE to visitors at Stampex in London. This year, we are giving you the chance to design the front of our postcard! You can use any tools you like – from digital art tools to Read more…
In his greetings in Bulletin 2, Ulf Nilsson, President of the Organizing Committee, welcomes us to NORDIA 2025 assuring us that “preparations are proceeding very well thanks to our well-established team.” He goes on to say that the highlights of the exhibition include: Exlusive items from members of the Club de Monte-Carlo. Rare collections of Read more…
The June edition of the Balkanfila Working Group Newsletter was released last Wednesday. Readers will be delighted to browse through its 74 pages packed with philatelic news from all corners of Southeastern Europe. The newsletter: https://fepanews.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/balkanfila_nsl_09.pdf …
The British Thematic Association (BTA) is delighted to report a record level of interest from young people entering the biennial One-Page Virtual Competition. The 2025 One-Page Virtual Competition attracted 76 entries—24 of which were from youngsters 12 to 17 years old—from eight countries. Run every two years, the competition aims to encourage both experienced collectors Read more…
Phila-France 2025 welcomed philatelists in Colmar for four days in June. The programme featured the annual French championship, youth collections, numerous lectures, stage entertainment including the popular battles timbrées (stamp battles), association booths, and many dealers from France and abroad. The exhibition “Relive France… the reinvented collection” was also presented to the public, accompanied by Read more…
Chris King RDP won the Bowl and Jiří Kraus won the Plate at the 5th Devonshire One Frame Competition held at the Royal Philatelic Society London (RPSL) on 3 July. The first such event was held in 2018, and it was repeated in 2022, 2023, and 2024. Previous winners are listed here: https://www.rpsl.org.uk/News-Events-Meetings/Devonshire-Bowl/Devonshire-Bowl-2018 Photo: Jiří Read more…
The Fédération des Sociétés Philatéliques du Grand-Duché de Luxembourg (FSPL) has recently announced two national exhibitions. This year, the FSPL celebrates the 36th Journée Maximaphile & 3rd Picture Postcard salon on 27 & 28 September 2025 in Ettelbrück. Applications are possible up to 15 July 2025 and can be sent to Jean-Louis Reuter (jean-louis.reuter@education.lu). It Read more…
Thomas M. Fortunato, BOSTON 2026 Public Relations Chair, reports from BOSTON 2026. Boston 2026 exhibitors should be aware that an update has taken place to the Boston 2026 IREX, the exhibition’s rules and regulations, which is now posted on the show’s web site. Applications continue to be accepted exclusively online. The change was necessitated by the Read more…
LIBEREC 2025, a national exhibition with additional participation from Armenia, Germany, Moldova, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia, the United Kingdom, and the United States concluded on Sunday, 22 June. A total of 116 exhibits across 480 frames, representing eight competitive classes, were judged by an international jury consisting of Julius Cacka (President, CZE), Bill Hedley (Honorary President, Read more…
The winners of the Crawford Medal at the 4th Annual Crawford Festival were Tomas Bjäringer and Mårten Sundberg, co-authors of Tête Bêche: Rarities from the Oval-Issue of Finland. The shortlisted books included: Dominica: Philately to 1967 by Simon Richards. New York City Foreign Mail 1845–1878 (2 Volumes) by Nicholas M Kirke. Italia e Iberia: la Read more…
With deep regret we announce the passing of Dr Alan K Huggins RDP (1936-2025) who had been unwell for some time. Alan made many contributions to philately in the UK and the world over many years, especially through his ground-breaking work on postal stationery. He also filled many positions in philatelic organisations including the Presidency Read more…
The latest from BOSTON 2026: A special separate exhibition is being featured at BOSTON 2026 World Expo known as a Polar Salon, five times having formerly been held in Europe but not so in the western hemisphere. It will have up to 250 frames of competitive exhibits, from 1 to 10 frames each exhibited by members Read more…
As announced by the German Philatelic Federation (BDPh): Postal History Live 2025 in Ulm: The hunt for the post horns is on! From 23 to 25 October 2025, Ulm will once again become the centre of the international postal history scene, with the renowned Postal History Live exhibition as part of the International Stamp Fair. What’s Read more…
Visitors to the Musée de La Poste will discover remarkable items along the way: a late 18th-century travel clock, a 1850 mail coach watch, historical photographs (from 1887 to the present), postal history and philately artefacts (including date stamps, cancellations, covers…), and other fascinating objects—among them around fifty almanacs ranging from the early 18th century Read more…
Mark Banchik was elected president of the American Philatelic Society (APS). The APS has announced that all newly elected APS and APRL Board members will take the oath of office following the annual membership meeting on Saturday, 16 August, during the Great American Stamp Show in Schaumburg, Illinois. Mark Banchik was elected president for his Read more…
The Universal Postal Union (UPU) has launched the new WNS app, making stamp identification easier, faster and more accessible than ever before. With a user-friendly interface and AI-supported image recognition, the application allows users to search and identify stamps registered in the WADP Numbering System (WNS) database. The app, available for iOS and Android, grants Read more…
The latest from BOSTON 2026: The Boston 2026 World Expo Organizing Committee has chosen four prominent philatelists to form the exhibition’s Selection Advisory Committee. All are experienced gold medal exhibitors as well as APS national and FIP international jurors. They are: · Darrell Ertzberger – Chairman of the American Philatelic Society (APS) Committee on Accreditation of Read more…
One of Serbia’s most prominent philatelists, Predrag Cuki Antić, has opened the exhibition “The Principality and Kingdom of Serbia” at the PTT Museum, showcasing his two most valuable collections. Antić emphasised the importance of encouraging young philatelists to channel their research and passion for the hobby into exhibiting, as this is a way of preserving Read more…
This year’s French Championship (Championnat de France de philatélie 2025 – Phila-France Colmar 2025) concluded on Sunday, 8 June. The big winner was Jean-Marie Vuillemard, with his exhibit in Postal History, “The Flight of the Eagles”, originally titled “Le vol des aigles”. Here is the complete list of awards: https://membres.ffap.net/Competitions/championnat.php?id=285 Photo: Jean Frick (Grand Prix Read more…
Stamps as Witnesses of History is not a book about the history of stamps as such. It is a book about how stamp issues since Rowland Hill invented the first adhesive postage stamp in 1840 have “witnessed” the seismic global political developments over the years. It is a guide to political philately, which aims to Read more…
Following the success of last year’s 19th UPU Competition Class, this year’s 20th edition is already making its mark. It has been showcased at URUGUAY 2025, and BERNABA 2025 in Bern, Switzerland, and is scheduled to appear at GASS 2025 in Chicago, and PHILAKOREA 2025 in Seoul. Twenty-eight postal operators are taking part, each presenting Read more…
Received yesterday from Norbert Sehler: The ABRIA on the home straight Only a few weeks to go until the opening of the 7th Altmärkische stamp exhibition. It’s well worth a visit, because the exhibition has a lot to offer. 500 years of the erection of the Stendal Roland, one of the most important symbols of Read more…
The following report, titled “Paolo Cardillo’s Encore”, was copied from Vaccari News: In a way, a book being out of print is good news, especially if it ends up being republished. This is what has happened with Paolo Cardillo’s study and catalogue Prove, saggi e ristampe della II e III emissione del Regno di Sardegna (Proofs, Read more…
“Italy, its colonies and territories” is this year’s theme of Opus XXV, featuring eighteen articles by different authors in 236 pages. “The fact that the current Opus bears the number 25 means that the annual book of our European Academy of Philately is already a quarter of a century old,” Guy Coutant remarks in his Read more…
EXPHIMO 2025 is the 67th International Thematic Philatelic Exhibition to be held at the Sports Centre “Roll Delles”, Avenue des Villes Jumelées, L-5612 Mondorf-les-Bains in Luxembourg, over the weekend of 7-8 June. The exhibition is organised by the Thematic Association PHILCOLUX with the support of the Thematic Commission of the Federation of Philatelic Societies of Read more…
This is the latest news from BEPHILA 2026: In a letter dated 19 May 2025, the Chairman of the Bernauer Briefmarkenfreunde, Michael Fukarek, asked the AIJP to award its patronage and for the active support of AIJP members (authors and specialist journalists). ‘We are hoping for a strong literature class. As organisers, we will ensure that Read more…
Malcolm Groom RDP has retired as chairman of the FIP Postal History Commission and been replaced by Henrik Mouritsen RDP (Germany), the Commission’s secretary. This is in accordance with the FIP rule that, when the chairman of a commission retires in the middle of an elected period, the secretary may act as interim chairman until Read more…
The Balkanfila Workgroup presents its first yearbook! Editor Christos Gikas writes in his foreword: “This inaugural volume features seventeen articles that present readers with diverse philatelic materials, enriching their understanding of postal communications throughout the Balkan region. These items illuminate how mail services reflected every aspect of Balkan life during both peaceful periods and times Read more…
The BERNABA 2025 exhibition, which served as both the Swiss National Exhibition (NABA) and the exhibition of the regional group Multilaterale, was held in Bern, Switzerland, from 14 to 17 May 2025. The exhibition enjoyed a satisfactory level of attendance and featured participation from postal administrations, auctioneers, dealers, and various working groups. Multilaterale is a regional Read more…
The website of the Polish Philatelists Union has recently announced the release of a new publication by Edward Kubica, focusing on prisoners of war in German camps during the Second World War. The original title is Niemieckie obozy dla jeńców wojennych 1939–1945. Belgowie i Francuzi w niewoli, which translates into English as German Camps for Read more…
From 23 to 25 May, the OC Marke + Münze, with the support of the Verband Österreichischer Philatelistenvereine (Austrian Philatelic Federation), Austrian Post, and many other sponsors, successfully organised the 21st competitive exhibition of ranks I and II with international participation, alongside the Austrian Specialised Fair for Philately and Numismatics. This year’s event had a Read more…
The Board of the European Academy of Philately (AEP) has unanimously decided to award the AEP Prix européen de la Presse philatélique for 2024 to FEPA News magazine. This annual prize is awarded to a magazine that demonstrates a high philatelic standard and wide European circulation. Bill Hedley, FEPA President and FEPA News Editor, accepted Read more…
“Explore the powerful stories of enslaved people whose labour fuelled 19th-century postal ships,” says The Postal Museum in London, inviting visitors to the exhibition, which runs until 5 January 2026. Postal ships carried mail between the UK and the Caribbean, enabling enslavers to manage plantations via the postal service and distance themselves from the atrocities Read more…
As announced on the Spanish Federation website: Their Majesties King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia have graciously accepted the Honorary Presidency of the 63rd National Philatelic Exhibition (EXFILNA) and the 29th Youth Philatelic Exhibition (JUVENIA), which will be held from 5 to 9 November 2025 in Cádiz. The Spanish Federation of Philatelic Societies (FESOFI) and Read more…
The Union of Slovak Philatelists, in cooperation with the Ministry of Transport of the Slovak Republic and Slovenská Pošta, a.s., is organising the Specialised World Stamp Exhibition SLOVPHILEX 2027, under FIP patronage and FEPA recognition. This will be the first time a world exhibition is held in Slovakia. The exhibition will feature approximately 1500 frames Read more…
The Smithsonian’s National Postal Museum has announced the 2025 Smithsonian Philatelic Achievement Award recipients, Gordon Edwin Eubanks Jr., Christopher Miles Bertram King and Patrick Valère Maria Jérôme Maselis. They will be honored at a gala at the museum Saturday, Nov. 8. The Smithsonian Philatelic Achievement Award (SPAA) was established in 2002 to honor and celebrate Read more…
The Chapter of the Medal “For Merits in the Development of Philatelic Publications” has decided to award the following individuals with the Medal in recognition of their publishing achievements and significant contributions to the development of Polish philatelic literature and promotion of philately in 2024: Janusz Bator, Rzeszów Region (second time). Medal No. 473 for Read more…
Received today from Norbert Sehler, ABRIA 2025 webmaster: The 72-page exhibition catalogue is currently at the printers and will soon be available from the exhibition manager, Eberhard Werner, for €5.00 (postage included). The catalogue will also be available at Stendal for €3.00. More details in Newsletter #6: https://fepanews.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/abria2025_nsl6.pdf …
MIDPEX 2025 Warwickshire Event Centre, Leamington Spa, CV31 1XN 5th July 2025, 10am – 4pm The MIDPEX bi-annual philatelic show will take place on 5th July, sponsored by Cavendish Philatelic Auctions Ltd. 41 Dealers and 21 Societies have already booked to take part in this popular and successful Show. Chairman, Clive Jones, said: “Midpex is Read more…
FEPA Congress 2025: The Congress took place on Sunday, 11 May, at the NEC in Birmingham, the venue for Europhilex 2025, with 36 of the 45 National Federations represented. Honoured by the FEPA Board: The late Franco Rigo, for 73 years as an international exhibitor. Vice President Giancarlo Morolli, for his service on the FEPA Read more…
The latest from BOSTON 2026: The Fédération Internationale de Philatélie (FIP) has upgraded its Boston 2026 World Expo participation status from “Recognition” to its highest level, “Patronage,” now classifying the event as a General World Exhibition. The agreement was finalized between FIP, Boston 2026 and American Philatelic Society officials during EuroPhilEx this past weekend in Read more…
The Palmares reception, dinner, and award ceremony took place on Saturday evening, 10 May, at the Grand Ballroom of the Grand Hotel, Birmingham. Grand Prix FEPA: Tom Komnaes (Norway), Norwegian Skilling Covers Domestic and Abroad Grand Prix International: Dr Luís Barreiros (Portugal), Portuguese India – The “Native Issues” 1871-1888 Grand Prix National: Stephen McGill (USA), Read more…
The 104th RDP ceremony was held on Friday, 9 May, at 5:00 pm, at the Council House, Victoria Square, Birmingham. Of the four signatories, Adriano Bergamini RDP, Birthe King RDP, and Simon Richards RDP signed the Roll, while Eddie Leibu RDP will sign it on a future occasion. Jon Aitchison FRPSL, Keeper of the Roll, Read more…
From the UPU social media: 185 years ago today, the world’s first postage stamp – the “Penny Black” – came into use in the United Kingdom. Bearing the profile of Queen Victoria, this revolutionary stamp was part of Rowland Hill’s postal reform, which for the first time allowed senders to prepay postage. A small piece of Read more…
Yesterday, we received the latest press release from BOSTON 2026: There has been much hype and misinformation circulating mostly on social media warning potential visitors to the United States to reconsider their travel plans. Let’s set the record straight. Boston 2026 committee members reviewed several overseas official government web sites in the past week and Read more…
From Wednesday 7 to Sunday 11 May, EuroPhilEx Birmingham 2025 will welcome visitors from all corners of the world to what is expected to be the biggest philatelic event of the year. In his welcome message in the exhibition catalogue, Jon Aitchison, EuroPhilEx Chairman, noted that this is the first British international exhibition to be staged Read more…
Christos Gikas of the Balkanfila Working Group released the latest 51-page newsletter yesterday. This issue features a detailed section on the recent FEPA initiative to hold a series of Zoom discussions with national federations, focusing on revitalising philately through social media. It also contains a range of articles covering the latest philatelic news and reports Read more…
Thanks to the initiative of Alfonso Molina and Henry Márquez, who had already organised meetings among philatelists, it was on 15 April 2020 that the first recorded conference was published on YouTube within the virtual space of Mi Oficina Philatelic Society. Five years later, the following achievements were recorded: 752 video conferences available. 1,152 hours Read more…
LIBEREC 2025 is a national stamp exhibition with international participation. It will be held at the MCU Koloseum in Liberec, Czech Republic, from 19 to 22 June 2025. There will be 480 frames of exhibits in the 1st (national) and 2nd (premier) levels, across almost all philatelic classes, with participants from 10 countries. The exhibition Read more…
BERNABA ’25 is a National and Multilateral Philatelic Exhibition of Level I. It will be held in the exhibition halls of BernExpo from 14 to 17 May. The last stamp exhibition in Bern took place in 1965 with NABRA. Over the past two and a half years, the Organising Committee has worked with great dedication Read more…
The Finnish Philatelic Federation (Suomen Filatelistiliitto r.y.) announced significant changes to its publication strategy. Filatelisti magazine will be published in print four times a year, accompanied by at least ten Filatelisti newsletters, distributed via email. The magazine will focus on philatelic studies, presentations, and educational content, while the newsletter will concentrate on faster-paced communication of Read more…
The International Philatelic Federation (FIP) has uploaded on its website the latest issue of Flash, its biannual official house organ. Contents: Highlights of the FIP Board Meetings Comparison of FIP Patronage and FIP Recognition Exhibitions Highlights of the 77th Congress Qualifying Seminars in Uruguay 2025 FIP Medals for Exceptional Jury Service Past and Future Exhibitions Collecting and Exhibiting First Read more…
We have received this invitation from Peter Lang, President of Motivgruppe Musik e.V. Motivgruppe Musik, the International Philatelic Music Study Group, is again inviting all collectors around the world to vote for the most popular music stamp of the past year. Members of the Motivgruppe Musik have selected 66 stamps from more than 400 stamps Read more…
“phila”-Toscana ’25 is a regional and national competitive exhibition with international participation, organised by OK-Gmunden in cooperation with BMSV-Gmunden and the Austrian Philatelic Federation (VÖPh). The exhibition will be held at the Toscana Congress Centre, 4810 Gmunden. Exhibitors from all FEPA members are welcome to participate. This year, under the new regulations, it is possible Read more…
Wolfgang Maassen’s 21st volume in the author’s book series on the history of German philately is dedicated to the German stamp trade from 1885 onwards. The book title is Zur Geschichte des deutschen Briefmarkenhandels, and its subtitle is 75 Jahre Allgemeiner Postwertzeichen-Händler-Verband – APHV. We read from the publisher’s website: The topic was long overdue, as Read more…
The Academy of Turkish Philately is a working group affiliated with the Federation of Turkish Philatelic Associations (TFDF). It is dedicated to studying the richness of Turkish philately and postal history, while sharing available information and promoting it internationally. The Academy emerged as a project of the TFDF administration following a proposal by Mehmet Akan, Read more…
We have recently received Maximaphily Commission Newsletter No. 9, written by Pascal Bandry, Commission Chairman. It includes: A Welcome Word by the President The Who is Who is Maximaphily News from around the World FIP Regulations and Guidelines Best Maximum Card 2023 Download the 60-page Newsletter from here: https://fepanews.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Max_NSL_FIP-9.pdf …
A few weeks away from the opening day of EuroPhilex 2025, the organisers have shared a video with all you need to know and much more about the exhibition. See and listen to Jon Aitchison’s presentation here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cCNQBHCDzno The exhibition poster: https://fepanews.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/europhilex_poster.pdf …
PHIL LEMAN 2025, Evian, les 18 et 19 octobre 2025, Palais des Festivités Co-organisation : Phil’Chablais (Evian) et Entente Philatélique Valais/ Haut-Léman (Suisse) Partenaire média : Rhône Philatélie UNIQUE : 3 événements au même endroit : PHIL LEMAN 2025 Exposition-bourse multi-collections franco-suisse 6e Journée Philatélique Romande (Entente Philatélique Valais/Haut-Léman, Suisse) EXPOPHIL 2025 Exposition de collections Read more…
A new book titled Iconografía Postal De La Cruz Roja Española 1864-1939, written by Gabriel Camacho Rosales, was published by the Royal Hispanic Academy of Philately and Postal History (RAHFeHP). The 185-page book is classified as Vol. LV of the series Discurso Académicos. Following the famous Battle of Solferino in 1859, Henry Dunant’s intervention, and the establishment of Read more…
Marius Muntean, President of Asociatia Filatelica Timișoara, shared the following information: In November, the Philatelic Association of Timișoara intends to organise a National Philatelic Exhibition, TimFilEx 2025, under the patronage of the Romanian Federation, to mark 150 years since the birth of Queen Maria. The finest Romanian exhibits, alongside those from neighbouring countries — Hungary, Read more…
The Federation of European Philatelic Associations (FEPA) has released a new report offering concrete strategies to help philatelic federations and societies across Europe strengthen their digital presence and help reverse the declining membership trends. Based on six interactive Zoom sessions held in March 2025 with representatives from 26 FEPA member countries, the report—Effective Social Media Read more…
The Italian philatelic community mourns the passing of Franco Rigo, a passionate and esteemed collector, exhibitor and writer, well-known internationally for his near-constant participation in exhibitions with his books and collections. Franco was born on 2 October 1934 and took part in the International Sport Stamps Exhibition in Rome in 1952 as a young Olympic Read more…
The Serbian Embassy in Slovenia organised an international philatelic exhibition in Škofja Loka, Slovenia, to commemorate the collaboration of Jernej Kopitar (1780–1844) and Vuk Stefanović Karadžić (1787–1864) in Vienna. Between 1813 and 1844, these two renowned linguists laid the foundations of the Slovenian and Serbian languages at the Austrian Imperial Library and the tavern Zum Read more…
Helmut Kogler writes in honour of the late Horst Horin (30.10.1940–15.03.2025). We knew it and we had a premonition of it, we all hoped and did not want it to be true, although the odds were against him. Nevertheless, it has happened: After long sufferings he has left us forever. For decades, Horst was an Read more…
We have received the latest ABRIA 2025 newsletter, recently distributed by Norbert Sehler. The appointed jurors, accepted exhibits, participating dealers and study groups are on the exhibition website. A few rooms are still available at the ‘Am Bahnhof’ hotel, where the festive evening will also be held. Please book quickly under ‘Briefmarkenausstellung’. Several rooms are Read more…
URUGUAY 2025 organisers have shared the exhibition catalogue on Federación Uruguaya de Filatelia Facebook account. In addition to detailed information about the exhibition, the attractive 115-page, A4 format publication contains seven comprehensive articles on Uruguayan philately, written by renowned scholars. The catalogue: https://fepanews.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Uruguay2025-catalogue.pdf
Rafael Acuña Castillo, Secretary General FESOFI and Commissioner General EXFILNA 2025, reports: The 63rd National Philatelic Exhibition EXFILNA 2025 Spanish Philatelic Championship will be held in Cádiz, at El Baluarte de la Candelaria, from 5 to 9 November 2025. It will be organised by the Spanish Federation of Philatelic Societies (FESOFI) in collaboration with the Read more…
Vaccari News reports on their Facebook account: On 29 March, the exhibition “Guglielmo Marconi e le onde della comunicazione” [Guglielmo Marconi and the Waves of Communication] opened its doors in Segrate, Milan. The exhibition is curated by Giancarlo Morolli and Giuliano Nanni and is dedicated to the scientific and entrepreneurial achievements of Guglielmo Marconi. The Read more…
On Saturday, 22 March 2025, delegates from the stamp collecting clubs organised within the Fédération des Sociétés Philatéliques du Grand-Duché du Luxembourg gathered at Mamer Schlass. The President of the Cercle Philatélique Mamer, Mr. Ralph Letsch, the President of the FSPL, Mr. Jos Wolff, RDP, and the General Director of Post Luxembourg, Mr. Claude Strasser, Read more…
Following the annual General Assembly and elections on 16 March, the Hellenic Philatelic Federation (HPF) has announced its new Board of Directors for the next two years: President: Christos Gikas Vice President: Nikos Andriotis General Secretary: Evaggelos Karras Director of Communications: Georgia Baltsou Members: Thomas Arvanitis, Michalis Vaitis, Ioannis Skarmoutsos, Kostas Dimisianos, and Evaggelos Kotsis Read more…
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Davit Franco on 23 March. Giussepe Davit Franco was born in Istanbul. His journey as an exhibitor began in 1980, when he presented his collection, French Levant Post offices between 1840 and 1876, at the Istanbul National Stamp Exhibition, where he was awarded a Read more…
The following is a summary of a short story published today on the BBC website by David Wallace Lockhart, BBC Scotland correspondent. Dr Alan Borthwick has spent 30 years uncovering how thousands of historical documents from Scotland’s National Records (NRS) ended up in Canada. The person responsible was Prof. David Stirling Macmillan, a historian and archivist Read more…
Two additional properties have signed on to become official show hotels for Boston 2026 World Expo. “Details took a bit longer than expected to work out,” said Boston 2026 Executive Director Mark Butterline, “But the addition of these hotels helps round out our eight hotel offerings to attendees with discounted prices ranging from $129 to Read more…
A new book by Jesús Sitjà Prats was recently published by the Real Academia Hispanica de Filatelia e Historica Postal (Royal Spanish Academy of Philately and Postal History). The bilingual 236-page book carries the title The Mail Of The Spanish Ship Register Envelopes (1778-1853) in English, and El Correo De Los Sobres De Registro De Read more…
Instead of an annual lecture, this year the Stuart Rossiter Trust is hosting a Seminar on “What is Postal History?”. An all-day event, it will feature presentations and discussions from a team of six well-known specialist speakers with divergent views on a variety of aspects. It will take place on Wednesday, 24 September 2025, at Read more…
Hotel reservations have opened for Boston 2026 World Expo, taking place in fourteen months. Eight official show hotels have been selected from throughout the Boston Seaport district representing Hilton, Hyatt, Marriott, Omni and Yotel chains. All are three or four-star rated, fully wheelchair-accessible and within walking distance of the Boston Convention & Exhibition Center. The Read more…
Written by Stuart Aitken and posted on the Postal Museum website. The author gracefully sums up the artist’s life in the article’s subheader: “With 103 issued stamps and countless additional designs to his name, David Gentleman’s work masterfully blends contrasting techniques, unified by his distinctive and unmistakable style.” Read how David Gentleman started designing British Read more…
The Finnish Philatelic Society (Suomen Filatelistiseura) and the Philatelic Society of Helsinki (Helsingfors Frimärkssamlare Förening) will organise the Nordic Philatelic Exhibition NORDIA 2026, in cooperation with the Philatelic Federation of Finland (Suomen Filatelistiliitto) and the Foundation for Promoting Finnish Philately (Suomalaisen filatelian edistämissäätiö). The NORDIA 2026 Exhibition will include approximately 700-800 frames and will be Read more…
A virtual exhibition is organised under the patronage of the Società Filateliche Italiane (FSFI), aiming to promote philately and stamp collecting in all its forms. The initiative is attributed to the Unione Siciliana Collezionisti di Siracusa and the Lions Club Filatelico Italiano. There is no registration fee for participation, and each collector may submit no Read more…
The DUBAI 2026 Specialised World Stamp Exhibition will be held at the Sheikh Maktoum Hall, World Trade Centre, Dubai, United Arab Emirates, from 4 to 8 February 2026. The exhibition will commemorate the 30th anniversary of the Emirates Philatelic Association and the 100th anniversary of the Fédération Internationale de Philatélie (FIP). Exhibitors must submit their Read more…
EuroPhilEx 2025 – the key facts The international stamp exhibition, EuroPhilEx Birmingham 2025, hosted by the United Kingdom, will be held in Hall 9 of the National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham from Wednesday, 7 May, until Sunday, 11 May 2025. The National Exhibition Centre is easy to reach with Birmingham International Station part of the Read more…
Exhibits to interest everyone With nearly 2,000 frames of displays provided by collectors from forty countries, there will be something to draw the attention of every visitor to EuroPhilEx 2025, the international stamp exhibition being held at the National Exhibition Centre, Birmingham, from Wednesday, 7 May, until Sunday, 11 May. Foremost among the competitive exhibits Read more…
Christos Gikas of the Balkanfila Working Group sent out their latest newsletter yesterday. In its 33 pages, we read about recent philatelic exhibitions, an interview with Ion Chirescu, the FEPA Awards 2024, the Turkish Philatelic Academy, recently issued philatelic literature, new issues from the Balkans, and much more. The newsletter: https://fepanews.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/balkanfila_nsl_07.pdf Follow FEPA on Facebook
Received from Thomas M. Fortunato, BOSTON 2026 Public Relations Chair, on 6 March: The issuance of postage stamps honoring Boston 2026 World Expo has been announced by the United States Postal Service, the major sponsor of the event. The March 6 USPS press release detailed the background of the se-tenant pair of stamps: “To build Read more…
The latest from PTS and Stampex: Last year, we brought you 1,050 reasons to attend Virtual Stampex. With more Talks, Displays, Specially Selected Shop Items, Giveaways, and new features, there are even more reasons to attend the show this year. Here’s your guide to making the most of Virtual Stampex 2025, which opens its virtual doors Read more…
Royal Mail at EuroPhilEx 2025 Royal Mail will have a stand at EuroPhilEx 2025, the international stamp exhibition being held at the National Exhibition Centre, Birmingham, from Wednesday, 7 May, until Sunday, 11 May. On sale will be a new series of stamps marking Valour and Victory: Stories of the Second World War being issued Read more…
On 1 March we received the latest Press Release from Axel Brockmann, the editorial office of Junge Sammler: The new JUNGE SAMMLER is on its way to its readers with the special topic of religion. The magazine is intended to help find exhibits for this year’s foundation competition, which will take place in Hamburg. Of Read more…
Two FEPA Seminars will be held at EuroPhilEx in the National Exhibition Centre, Birmingham, between 11.00am and 3.00pm on 9th May 2025, Meeting Room 3. 11.00am: Paul Leonard – Assisting Expert Committees through the use of forensic philately Genuine or fraudulently manipulated? If an item is likely to have a high value, what reassurance can Read more…
AUSVIPEX 2025 has been announced on Social Media. We read from the exhibition website: In today’s digitally connected world, the Australian Virtual Multi-frame Philatelic Exhibition (AUSVIPEX 2025) highlights how traditional hobbies can flourish in a technology-driven era. This innovative event unites stamp enthusiasts, collectors, and exhibitors from Australia and around the globe. Leveraging the power Read more…
ABPS Public Relations Officer, John Davies, sent us today the following Press Release: IDEAS FOR MEMBERSHIP GROWTH Whilst some Societies are reporting declining membership, others are thriving. So, what makes the difference? The answer can be summed up in one word “ACTION!”. Those societies that get involved in organising local Fairs, promote their website, put Read more…
URUGUAY 2025 FIP World Stamp Exhibition concluded last night following the Palmares Dinner and Awards Ceremony at the Enjoy Hotel in Punta del Este. Grand Prix International Winner: Pablo Alejandro Reim (Argentina), Republica Argentina – Classic Issues – Escuditos and Rivadavias. Candidate: Kai Nieminen (Finland), Grand Duchy of Finland 1856-1875. Candidate: Lars Jorgensen (Belgium), Zuid Read more…
Here is the latest from VIRTUAL STAMPEX, 6–8 March 2025: There is still time to be part of this fun way to Display and exhibit, to share your passion, to get feedback, and to inspire others. It is free to Display! There are no rules! You can display what you like, how you like (provided Read more…
The Philatelic Federation of South Africa invites philatelists from around the world to participate in the 10th SAVPEX, the annual South African Virtual Philatelic Exhibition. Entries and payment are to be received by 30th April 2025 and scans of exhibits are to be sent for evaluation by the 25th May 2025. Judging will take place Read more…
Back in 2008, at the EFIRO 2008 World Stamp Exhibition in Bucharest, the UPU and FIP developed a competition between postal operators, which presented their contemporary postage stamps in one-frame, 16-page exhibits. The competition has continued ever since, at least once every year, at a major exhibition. From 2024 onwards, the UPU and FIP have Read more…
New publication by the Royal Hispanic Academy of Philately and Postal History (RAHFeHP): The book titled Distribución y entrega de la correspondencia en España / Desde épocas prefilatélicas a nuestros días / Apartados, Carteros y Lista de Correos is written by Raimundo Almeda Candil. The author focuses on the Lista de Correos (General Delivery list), P.O. Read more…
Events linked to EuroPhilEx 2025 Several events will be taking place during EuroPhilEx 2025, being held at the National Exhibition Centre, Birmingham from Wednesday. 7 May until Sunday, 11 May. On Thursday, 8 May there will be a reception by the Royal Philatelic Society London from 7pm at the Arden Hotel. Admission is free and Read more…
From the French Federation (FFAP) website: La Fête du Timbre 2025: the Stamp is performing acrobatics in 2025; the first stage of a new four-year cycle dedicated to Street Arts. “Jugglers and acrobats” will be in the spotlight in 84 towns on 8 and 9 March. The list of organising towns is available here. The Read more…
From Jon Aitchison, Keeper of the Roll of Distinguished Philatelists: At the meeting of the Board of Election of the Roll of Distinguished Philatelists on 6 February 2025, it was unanimously agreed that the following philatelists be invited to be the new signatories to the Roll: Adriano Bergamini, RDP, Switzerland Birthe King, RDP, United Kingdom Read more…
Societies strongly support EuroPhilEx Many philatelic societies based in the United Kingdom will be supporting EuroPhilEx 2025, the stamp exhibition being held at the National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham from Wednesday, 7 May to Sunday, 11 May. Some will be having their own meetings during the exhibition as follows. Wednesday, 7 May Pitcairn and Norfolk Islands Read more…
MIDPEX 2025 Warwickshire Event Centre, Leamington Spa, CV31 1XN 5th July 2025, 10:00am – 4pm There are only a few spaces remaining for dealers and societies to sign up for MIDPEX, sponsored by Cavendish Philatelic Auctions Ltd. This is a great opportunity to both dealers and collectors to enjoy a quality philatelic event. Organiser, Steve Read more…
The Federation of European Philatelic Associations (FEPA) released this morning the February 2025 issue of FEPA News magazine featuring: News from FEPA Exhibition News Forthcoming Exhibitions FEPA Exhibiting Developments in Philately The World of Research FEPA Family and FEPA Board Events Calendar You can read or download the 84-page FEPA News from here: https://fepanews.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/FN46.pdf Earlier Read more…
The FEPA Board is delighted to announce that the following medals have been awarded for 2024: THE FEPA MEDAL FOR EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE TO ORGANISED PHILATELY, 2024 Awarded to: BRUNO CREVATO-SELVAGGI RDP (Italy) Dr Bruno Crevato-Selvaggi’s philatelic activities have been expressed through various leadership roles within the Italian federation where he is currently President but has Read more…
Six speakers will participate in a five-hour, nonstop webinar organised by AMSIPEX-25 in celebration of 18th February, World Air Mail Day. 12:00-12:30 CET: Inauguration 12:30-13:10 CET: Terry Hare Walker, “Imperial Airways Route to India 1927-29” 13:00-13:50 CET: Markand Dave FRPSL, “Indian Rocket Mails during WWII Period” 13:50-14:10 CET: short break 14:10-14:50 CET: Pradip Jain RDP Read more…
The Slovenian Philatelic Association has notified us that, from 5 to 28 February, an exhibition titled Navigation will take place in the lobby of Post Office 1101, Ljubljana, Slovenia. The exhibit is part of the Maritime Museum of Crete’s permanent philatelic collection, Navigation, which is displayed in the central hall of the museum and at Read more…
We’ve picked this up from Dr Gregg Redner’s FB account: The Auxiliary Markings Club and the Philatelic Specialists Society of Canada announce the publication of a major, joint, open source publishing project – ‘Considering Auxiliary Markings’, an anthology of articles on the subject of auxiliary marking and labels. The book, edited by The Auxiliary Markings Read more…
BERNABA and MUTILATERALE 2025 organisers have sent us the following newsletter: Experience BERNABA 2025, a major national and multilateral Rank I exhibition that brings together collectors and enthusiasts. The multilateral association consists of the seven countries: Germany, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Austria, Switzerland and Slovenia. From 14 to 16 May 2025, Bern will become the Read more…
The latest press release from the PTS highlights the provisional talks and roundtable schedule: In just 5 weeks, we will open the doors to Virtual Stampex 2025! We are jam packing this show with incredible dealer booths for you to interact with, displays and exhibits, Talks, Roundtables, and competitions and offers. We’ll be live from the Read more…
Received from BOSTON 2026 on 29 January: Three regional U.S. commissioners have been announced by Boston 2026 World Expo to handle the transport and care of exhibits before, during and after the show. Representing the East is Chris Lazaroff, a well-established first day cover creator and enthusiast since the 1980s. He has been instrumental in Read more…
We have recently received the following information from the International Postal History Library: Please find attached the new list of fascinating postal history studies and books currently available from IPHL vzw. Prices listed include shipping costs within Europe. For those interested outside Europe, please contact IPHL by email so we can let you know the Read more…
Number 28 of Academus, the annual publication of the Royal Hispanic Academy of Philately and Postal History (RAHFeHP), is now available. The volume features articles contributed by the following members of the Academy: Messrs Rafael Acuña Castillo, Manuel Arango Echeverri, Jaime Benavides Villareal, Eduardo Consejo Prieto, José Antonio Herráiz Gracia, Yamil H. Kouri Jr., and Read more…
We have received the latest ABRIA 2025 newsletter recently distributed by Norbert Sehler. The registration deadline for ABRIA 2025 is approaching. Prospective exhibitors can register until 31 January 2025. The Palmares will take place on 14 June at 7:30 pm in the Am Bahnhof hotel. Details in Newsletter #4: https://fepanews.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/abria2025_nsl4.pdf Follow FEPA on Facebook
This is the latest Press Release from Thomas M. Fortunato, BOSTON 2026 Public Relations Chair, received on 22 January: The Boston 2026 World Expo web site has been redesigned as the show nears the sixteenth month before it opens its doors. Boston 2026 Executive Director Mark Butterline explained, “We’ve been working behind the scenes planning Read more…
The latest publication by the Royal Hispanic Academy of Philately and Postal History (RAHFeHP) is Volume IV of the Enciclopedia Histórico Descriptiva ‘Correo Aéreo Y Aerofilatelia’ – España (1870-1970), written by members Fernando Aranaz del Río and Eduardo Consejo Prieto. The volume consists of 428 pages. In December 2024, the Royal Academy published Volume IV Read more…
Through a collection of nearly 200 stamp booklets, posters, and original drawings, visitors are invited to wander among the different formats and messages of this object, reflecting the transformations of French society. The exhibition Stamp Booklets in the Spirit of the Times traces the evolution of this everyday object through three main themes: advertising, usage, and Read more…
Susanna Mills, Editor-in-Chief of the American Philatelic Society, is guiding us through the major changes to the Philatelic Literature Review in 2025: The PLR has been struggling to remain self-sustaining for years at its current publication schedule, and has cost more to produce than it makes in subscriber or advertiser dollars. Not only that, but Read more…
Here are the highlights of EuroPhilEx Birmingham 2025 Press Release No. 3: Standholders to meet all needs Visitors to the international stamp exhibition, EuroPhilEx Birmingham 2025, being held at the National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham from Wednesday, 7 May until Sunday, 11 May 2025, will find an array of standholders only too willing to help Read more…
Following the passing of President Mike Roberts in December, the Royal Philatelic Society London has appointed Senior Vice President Simon Richards FRPSL as the new President. The announcement was made on 9 January at the Royal by the immediate past President, Peter Cockburn FRPSL. [photo credit: RPSL Facebook account] Follow FEPA on Facebook
Federación Uruguaya de Filatelia is offering the opportunity to visit Uruguay and its World Stamp Exhibition next month: Explore an unforgettable journey into the world of philately! Collectors and enthusiasts from across the globe will gather in Punta del Este for a truly unique exhibition. Dive into a showcase of postal wonders, fascinating stories, and Read more…
New publication by the Royal Hispanic Academy of Philately and Postal History (RAHFeHP): A monograph by Juan Antonio Llácer Gracia titled Nuevas Aportaciones sobre el Franqueo en las Demarcaciones Postales de Valencia y Alicante Durante los Siglos XVIII y XIX. The monograph presents an in-depth investigation of prepaid mail in the Valencia and Alicante postal Read more…
Latest announcement from The Collectors Club, New York: The Collectors Club is pleased to announce that Dr. Yamil H. Kouri, Jr. of Sarasota, Fla. is this year’s winner of the Alfred F. Lichtenstein Memorial Award for Distinguished Service to Philately. The award was announced at the club’s annual meeting in New York on January 8, Read more…
BOSTON 2026 World Stamp Show will be held on 23-30 May 2026 at the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center (BCEC) under FIP recognition, FIAF patronage, and FEPA recognition. Several important parallel exhibitions will run simultaneously, including the 2026 APS Champion of Champions competition, a 200-frame Polar Salon, a 50-frame non-competitive German American Salon, and a Read more…
NORDIA 2025 will take place from 12 to 14 September at the MalmöMässan Convention Centre in Malmö, Sweden, located just 300 meters from Hyllie railway station in Malmö. The exhibition is organised by the SFF (Swedish Philatelic Federation) and SFU (Philatelic Youth of Sweden) with volunteers from the local clubs. NORDIA 2025 has received Recognition Read more…
Stamp Active have produced their latest publication to assist young collectors who may be interested in producing a stamp exhibit. There is now a new guide to stamp competitions, called “STAMP FUN – Showing Your Stamps”, which can be downloaded from the Stamp Active website Competitions page at www.stampactive.co.uk Please have a look. This might Read more…
We have received the latest press release from BOSTON 2026 Public Relations Chairman Thomas Fortunato. Boston 2026 World Expo calls on all collectors to donate off-paper stamps to build its inventory for use in welcome packets and the youth and beginners’ areas during America’s next international philatelic exhibition. Coordinating the collection process is Michael Lawson, Read more…
The Royal Philatelic Society London announced the loss of their President in a short message from Honorary Secretary Steven Harrison FRPSL on the society’s home page: It is with great sadness that I have to announce the death of our President, Mike Roberts. He died on Wednesday, 25 December 2024. Mike, as we all know, had Read more…
The Istituto di studi storici postali ‘Aldo Cecchi’ odv is moving to a larger and more convenient facility, also in Prato. Work is now in progress to adapt the rooms and equip them with the security measures required by the law. Meanwhile, work is in progress on the move. That is why we are promoting Read more…
Latest from the PTS: With over 3,500 votes cast, there was fierce competition in this year’s PTS People’s Choice Awards! 49 Nominees had been shortlisted across five categories – Best Website, Best Publication, Best Social Media, Best Physical Space, and Contributor of the Year. You can still view all nominees on the PTS Awards website. Read more…
On 15 November, during Balkanfila XX in Thessaloniki, an open discussion titled ‘Investing for the Future’ took place with the participation of eight prominent philatelists. A list of topics was suggested in advance, from which the speakers were asked to select theirs on a ‘first come, first served’ basis, with the option to address a Read more…
Alan C. Mellaart FRPSL has recently published his first book on Ottoman Postal History and has promised that more are to come. We quote from the book’s Preface: The Ottoman Empire Postal History of Greece attempts to visually explore the rich and complex postal history of the Ottoman Empire, in this case focusing on the Read more…
Balkanfila Newsletter No. 6 celebrates its first birthday! The current 63-page newsletter is packed with reports featuring a wide range of philatelic news from the member countries of the Balkanfila Working Group. It includes updates on international and national exhibitions, various events, meetings, and presentations; an interview with the President of the Serbian Federation; an Read more…
The Italian Philatelic Federation (FSFI) has announced the national exhibitions in 2025. Italia colleziona 2025 (Virtual), in March-April, not competitive and qualification, all classes except for Philatelic Literature, organised by Unione siciliana collezionisti. Vastophil 2025, in Vasto, on 13-15 June, championship and national Aerophilately, Astrophilately, Open philately, and Maximaphily, organised by Circolo filatelico Vastophil ‘Rino Read more…
On 17 December, we received the following news from the Museum of Philately: In honor of our Museum President, we are delighted to announce the publication of a book presenting the Simon Martin-Redman’s acclaimed Grand Prix Collection of Sarawak. Sponsored by the David Feldman Company, this exceptional publication—an extraordinary exception for us as a primarily Read more…
Latest Press Release by the Italian Association of Postal History (AISP). On Saturday, 14 December 2024, the scheduled joint event organised by the Italian Association of Postal History (AISP) and the Lombard Philatelic Union took place, with the participation of members from the Real Academia Hispánica de Filatelia y Historia Postal (RAHFHP). The video recording Read more…
The following presentation of Dr Hans-Joachim Soll’s book was copied from the BDPh website. This book was originally based on a purely postal-history collection of German East Africa. Later, the author of the book became inspired by social philately and began examining the collection in terms of senders and recipients. Before long, letters from historically Read more…
The depicted letter from Edinburgh to neighbouring Leith was handstamped ‘TOO LATE’ indicating that it had been posted late and held back until the next collection. As a result, the sender’s wishes on that Christmas evening did not reach the recipient in time. We are grateful to Alexios Papadopoulos for providing us with an extraordinary Read more…
In celebration of its centenary, the Hellenic Philatelic Society (HPS) has released a publication showcasing its longstanding contributions to philately and culture. The publication highlights the richness of philately and its profound connections to history, sociology, the arts, and communication, as reflected in philatelic items. The Society aims to provide both the philatelic community and Read more…
The following news has been recently uploaded on the French Philatelic Federation (FFAP) website: Our Federation is pleased to announce that the next French Philatelic Championship (Championnat de France) will take place from 6 to 9 June 2025 at the Parc des Expositions in Colmar. As part of this event, our 98th National Federal Congress Read more…
Italia e Iberia: La posta fra gli Stati delle due penisole 1814–1876, translated into English as Italy and Iberia: Postal Relations Between the States of the Two Peninsulas 1814–1876, published by UNIFICATO in collaboration with AIFSP, is a book written by Lorenzo Carra. This bilingual publication (Italian and English) examines the postal connections of Spain, Portugal, Read more…
We have received the following news from Bulgaria. At ‘Christmas Plovdiv 2024’ the Christmas stamp was officially validated. In fact, it was validated by Santa Claus himself, accompanied by Snow White, the Christmas Elf, the artist Kapka Kaneva and, of course, the head of the Regional Department of the Bulgarian Post, Mrs. Ivanova. Santa Claus Read more…
Dittmar Wöhlert from the Deutsche Philatelisten-Jugend e.V. sent us yesterday the following report: On Saturday, 7 December, a television crew from the MDR programme ‘Sachsen-Anhalt heute’ visited the group lesson of the Pretzier Young Stamp Friends. They explored the ‘In the Christmas bakery’ stamp with the Tiptoi pen. The many details of this special stamp Read more…
Milan Radovanović’s latest book was published in 2023 in Belgrade. It is written in Serbian with the original title Повлачење: Од Ниша До Крфа (1915-1916) – Неми Сведоци translated into English as Retreat: from Niš to Corfu (1915‐1916) – Silent Witnesses. The part of the material relating to the retreat of the Serbian army and Read more…
The book features Joseph Hackmey’s collection of the Triangular Stamps of the Cape of Good Hope, and is published by the Museum of Philately. On the reverse side of its dust cover, we read: This book marks the inaugural publication of the Museum of Philately, an online platform showcasing some of the greatest philatelic collections Read more…
Latest announcement by the PTS: Virtual Stampex 2025 is open for registration! Since 2020, Virtual Stampex has pushed the boundaries of what is possible in the online philatelic events space. We seek to encourage community, learning, and friendship; to inspire, to share, to celebrate. We are inviting you to join us for even bigger, bolder Read more…
The latest BEPHILA 2026 newsletter announced that FEPA had agreed to grant Recognition to BEPHILA and will help promote the exhibition. It also announced that an individual postage stamp priced at 0,85 € (standard letter up to 20g) with the exhibition logo is already available. Readers will find details on how to order in the Read more…
Court of Honour not to be missed Highlight of the international stamp exhibition, EuroPhilEx Birmingham 2025, being held at the National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham from Wednesday, 7 May, until Sunday, 11 May 2025, will be the Court of Honour. This will feature material from some of the world’s finest collections. Star attraction will be Read more…
The Global Philatelic Network has recently released five more volumes in the renowned Edition d’Or and Edition Spéciale series: Edition d’Or, Vol. 76: Postal History of the Southern Coast of Norway from 1719 to GPU – The Terje Heskestad Collection Edition d’Or, Vol. 75: Brazil Classic Issues 1843–1861 – The Pablo Reim Collection Edition d’Or, Vol. Read more…
The FEPA Newsletter journey began on 4 May 2020 with the release of our very first issue. Since 21 February 2022, it has been consistently distributed on a fortnightly basis, arriving in your inbox every other Monday at 11:00 am CET. Each newsletter features news posts from the FEPA website, covering the preceding 14 days. Read more…
At its 2024 Congress in Copenhagen last October, the International Association of Philatelic Experts (AIEP) celebrated its 70th anniversary by presenting Thomas Mathà’s 2024 Platinum Jubilee Book, titled A World of Philatelic Fakes and Forgeries. The bulk of the 136-page book is devoted to the Rome Collection of Philatelic Fakes and Forgeries, which was donated Read more…
Three experts in stamp show organising—Scott English (Great American Stamp Show), Behruz Nassre (Westpex), and Liz Hisey (Sarasota)—are discussing the present and future of stamp shows. They were invited to speak on 27 November by The Collectors Club of New York, which produced the video. The video will be available for approximately two weeks here. Read more…
LIBEREC 2025 is a competitive exhibition of the 1st and 2nd levels, which includes Traditional Philately, Postal History, Postal Stationery, Thematic Philately, Philatelic Literature, Open Philately, Youth Classes, Picture Postcards, and Single-Frame Exhibits. The event will take place from 19 to 22 June at the MCU Coloseum, in Liberec, under FEPA Recognition. 400 exhibition frames Read more…
Τhe international stamp exhibition, EuroPhilEx Birmingham 2025, will be hosted by the United Kingdom, and will be held at the National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham from Wednesday, 7 May until Sunday, 11 May 2025. The National Exhibition Centre is easy to reach with Birmingham International Station and Birmingham International Airport both close by. There are Read more…
A few weeks ago, a new book on the first Greek issue was released. It is titled A Different Classification of the Large Hermes Heads Stamps of Greece. The author, Athanasios D. Spanos, is a collector with over 60 years of experience and expertise in early Greek stamps. To present the Large Hermes Heads in Read more…
We have recently received BEPHILA 2026 Newsletter #2 from Norbert Sehler. The Berin auction house ‘Schlegel’ is strengthening its commitment to competitive philately as the main sponsor of BEPHILA 2026. ‘BEPHILA 2026 is an extremely important event for philately,’ says Managing Director Andreas Schlegel. ‘We are delighted to have the opportunity to support this event Read more…
The Polish Philatelists Union (PZF) website reports that two very valuable monographs have been published regarding POWs’ correspondence from the Murnau and Hadamar officers’ camps. Jacek Kubczyk, Oflag VII A Murnau. Korespondencja polskich jeńców 1939–1945 r., Częstochowa 2024, A4 format, 130 pages. Contact the author at jacekkubczyk@op.pl Edward Kubica, Obóz jeniecki Oflag XII A Hadamar, Read more…
Norbert Sehler has recently distributed ABRIA 2025 Newsletter #3. The newsletter’s main features are the call for limited space availability for dealers and Study Groups, and the latest information on the postage stamp marking the 500th anniversary of the Stendal Roland. The 7th Altmark Philatelic Exhibition (ABRIA) will take place in Stendal from 14 to Read more…
We’ve received this from the Real Academia Hispánica de Filatelia e Historia Postal. On 15 November, the inauguration ceremony of the new Library of the Spanish Post (Correos) took place at Correos Headquarters, located at Calle Conde de Peñalver 19, Madrid. Previously based in Aravaca until January, the library has now relocated to this new site Read more…
We’ve picked it up from the American Philatelic Society (APS) webpage: Literally, a single page, either 8.5” x 11” or 11” x 17” in size, or A4 and A3 in international sizes, the exhibit represents an accessible way for philatelic exhibiting newcomers to engage in this aspect of the hobby. For experienced one- and multi-frame Read more…
The International Philatelic Federation (FIP) has uploaded on its website the latest issue of Flash, its biannual official house organ. Contents: Highlights of the FIP Board Meetings The new FIP Grand Prix Club website Updates to the Jury Guidelines How the International Jury Team is formed for FIP Patronage Exhibitions 77th FIP Congress to be held on 3 December Read more…
On Friday, 15 November, Marco Occhipinti was invited to speak about mail and communication to the students of Claudia Villani’s Cultural History and History Teaching course at the University of Bari. Villani is a researcher in Contemporary History at the Department of Humanistic Research and Innovation. Marco, runner-up at the latest FEPA Kiddle Medal competition, Read more…
Three new publications have been introduced by MONACOPHIL 2024. MonacoPhil 2024 – Luxury Catalogue of 100 World Philatelic Rarities Exhibition A deluxe catalogue of the 100 World Philatelic Rarities exhibition held for MonacoPhil 2024 at the Museum of Stamps and Coins in Fontvieille, showcasing some of the most prized rarities in international philately. MonacoPhil 2024: Read more…
Gold, Large Gold Medals and Grand Prizes for BALKANFILA XX (13-16 November) were announced during the Palmares Dinner at the Mediterranean Palace Hotel, Thessaloniki, on Friday evening. The big winners were: Grand Prix International BALKANFILA: Chirescu Andrei Alexandru (Romania), The fluvial and maritime postal routes in the Romanian territories, 1840-1920. Grand Prix National BALKANFILA: Bauer Read more…
Over the past few years, BDPh online seminars have become a well-established feature during the winter season. This winter, BDPh is once again offering a series of seminars on exciting topics. Participation is free of charge and open to all interested individuals. As in previous years, the seminars will continue to use the ZOOM software, Read more…
On Friday 18 October, during HAFNIA 24 in Copenhagen, two enlightening seminars were presented to a packed audience by two prominent speakers: “Open Philately” by Birthe King A longtime expert and international juror in the Open Philately and Picture Postcards Classes, Ms King delivered her presentation by engaging collectors, exhibitors, and jurors, sharing the magic Read more…
The 344-page book focuses on the postal and philatelic effects that followed France’s 1860 annexation of the County of Nice and the Duchy of Savoy. It is based on an inventory of mail sent from post offices between the entrance of the French postal administration on 14 June 1860 and the adoption of French cancellations Read more…
Dr Alan K. Huggins MBE RDP Hon FRPSL, Honorary and first President of FEPA, Past President of the RPSL and the GBPS, and a specialist in Postal Stationery has published the results of his latest research in a book titled Great Britain Postal Stationery with Security / Advertising Collars. British postal stationery envelopes and newspaper Read more…
BALKANFILA XX is set to welcome exhibitors and visitors to Thessaloniki. The FEPA recognised exhibition will take place from 13 to 16 November at Pavillion 6 (Pavillion of the Nations) on the Thessaloniki International Fairgrounds, featuring: A convenient venue within walking distance of the White Tower, the seafront, and the official hotel. Exhibits from regional Read more…
The international competition Postgeschichte Live (24–26 October 2024) was organised by the Southwest Regional Association and the German Old Letter Collectors Association, at Ulm IBB (the Trade Fair), featuring 59 Postal History and Literature exhibits. The international jury comprised Alfred Schmidt (Germany, Chairman), Adriano Bergamini (Switzerland), Lars Böttger (Luxembourg), Dénes Czirók RDP (Hungary), Gerald Heschl Read more…
The “Postal Rates of the Republic of Türkiye 1920-1950” is a project by the Postal Rates Research Group of the Turkish Philatelic Academy. This 350-page, full-colour, and fully bilingual book documents Turkey’s postal rates from 1920 to 1950, covering all postage services defined in UPU Congress publications, as well as airmail rates. It also includes Read more…
We received the following report from Sinisha Pavleski, President of the Union of Philatelists of Macedonia. On 25th October, an online presentation titled “Errors on Macedonian stamps” was held for Chinese philatelists in Northeast China. The presentation began with a brief introduction to the stamps of North Macedonia and some facts about the country. It Read more…
Yoram Lubinaiker sent us the sorrowful news regarding the loss of Yacov Tsachor. It is my sad duty to report that Yacov Tsachor passed away on Thursday, October 24th. He was 78 years old. Yacov Tsachor was active in the philatelic world as a collector, exhibitor, researcher, expert, and dealer. His major field of expertise Read more…
Newsletter #16 HAFNIA 24 has finished! Copenhagen, 22 October 2024 Thank you The HAFNIA 24 has been an exciting event. From the organizing committee, we would like to thank visitors, exhibitors, commissioners, the jury, sponsors, dealers, Øksnehallen and volunteers for your being there and for your assistance in making HAFNIA 24 the most wonderful event. Read more…
On behalf of the organisers, on 19 October during HAFNIA 24, Simon Richards presented the upcoming FEPA-patronised philatelic exhibition, EUROPHILEX 2025. EUROPHILEX 2025 is scheduled for next year, between 7 and 11 May, at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) in Birmingham, England. Simon Richards’ PowerPoint presentation: https://fepanews.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Powerpoint-EuroPhilEx-7-months-to-go.pdf Follow FEPA on Facebook
We’ve received this from the American Philatelic Society: Interested in the Postal History Symposium but can’t make it to Bellefonte November 15-16? We have good news — you can attend the talks by our presenters via Zoom. Click here to register for the Zoom webinars of the talks you’re interested in attending, and we’ll see Read more…
The Large Gold Medals and Grand Prizes for HAFNIA 24 were announced during the Palmares Dinner at the CPH Conference in Copenhagen on Saturday evening. The big winners were: Grand Prix HAFNIA 24: Nicholas Miles Kirke (Czech Republic), The Evolution of Outbound Foreign Mail cancelled in New York City 1845-1878. Grand Prix International: Kai Nieminen Read more…
BEPHILA 2026 is a Bilateral Stamp Exhibition between Germany and Sweden, taking place from 17 to 19 July 2026 in the Sparkassen-Arena Bernau, located at Ladeburger Dreieck, 16321 Bernau near Berlin. The Berlin Philatelic Exhibition (BEPHILA) was first organised in 1957 and has been held six more times until 2001. With this eighth exhibition under Read more…
President Simon Martin-Redman FRPSL has shared the latest from the Museum of Philately. More and more great philatelists from around the world have uploaded their collections to the Museum’s website. The latest additions include Gordon Eubanks and Daniel J. Ryterband’s iconic USA collections, Dinesh Kanabar’s collection of Indian Archive material and Fumio Yamazaki’s Hawaiian collection. Read more…
In their latest newsletter, ABRIA 2025 organisers made an unusual announcement regarding dealer registration: Anyone who downloads the registration form for dealers from the exhibition’s homepage will notice a particularly interesting phrasing: Dealers, auctioneers, and postal administrations admitted to the exhibition do not pay a stand fee. After the event, they contribute a recognition fee Read more…
BALKANFILA XX opening ceremony is just 35 days away. There is still time to gather your family, buy your tickets, and start packing. The organisers say there is a good chance you will experience one of the most memorable philatelic visits of your lifetime. Thessaloniki is a delight to explore. Founded in the 4th c. Read more…
Francisc Ambrus, Romania, circulated the following report: DOBRICH FILEX 2024 was a national Maximaphily exhibition with international participation, celebrating 145 years since the independence of Bulgaria and the introduction of the first postal and fiscal stamps in 1879. The exhibits were displayed in approximately 200 frames, including several dedicated to postal history and revenues. It Read more…
Information received from Zeljko Popovic, Serbia: Over the past few years, three online philatelic exhibitions have been held in Apatin. The organisers’ intention is to make a big step forward by presenting the APATIN 2024 online exhibition as a competitive event. Co-organisers of APATIN 2024 are the Udruženje Filatelista Apatin (Philatelists Association of Apatin), the Read more…
FEPA Congress 2024 at HAFNIA 24 We are looking forward to welcoming delegates from more than 30 FEPA Members at our annual Congress in Copenhagen where we will review progress and discuss plans for the next two years. FEPA-supported seminars at HAFNIA 24 Two significant seminars will take place on Friday during the HAFNIA 24 Read more…
The”Multiarea-palasettembre” exhibition centre in Chiuduno, near Bergamo, hosted “Bergamofil 2024” from September 27 to 29. This “66th Philatelic Convention and Exhibition” included the traditional trade event and one of the yearly national exhibitions of the Federation among Italian Philatelic Societies (FSFI), this time reserved for the aero-philatelic, postal history, thematic, and traditional classes. The Grand Read more…
Received from the PTS and Stampex International: Your chance to display at Stampex this month After the success of Display Your Way at Virtual Stampex, we are bringing our Display Your Way concept to our in person Stampex at the BDC event in London! We are passionate about giving collectors of all levels and areas Read more…
On 25th September, Yamil Kouri, President and General Commissioner of BOSTON 2026 WORLD EXPO, was invited by The Collectors Club in New York and spoke on camera about the latest updates regarding the upcoming exhibition. In summary, the main features of BOSTON 2026 include: Free admission 4000 exhibit frames United States Postal Service American Philatelic Read more…
Newsletter #14 Souvenirs at HAFNIA 24 Copenhagen, 28 September 2024 HAFNIA 24 mini sheet On 1 October, PostNord Denmark published a second exhibition block on the occasion of HAFNIA 24. The block is similar to the first block, which was published in January, and contains four DKK 25 postage stamps for domestic shipments. The difference Read more…
The 23nd edition of the ‘Augusto Massari’ Prize for music philately took place in Vasto on the occasion of the VASTOPHIL 2024 national exhibition (from 20 to 22 September 2024, at Palazzo d’Avalos, on the initiative of the ‘Nino Piccirilli’ Philatelic Society). The event is characterised by the “un cuadro più” format, which consists of Read more…
Dittmar Wöhlert of Landesring Süd-West e.V. has sent us the following Press Release: On September 21 at 4 p.m., the first hybrid stamp exhibition for young people will enter the next phase: smart@Ulm will open and then go online. After the opening, the exhibits will be accessible worldwide via the event website https://smart.lrsw.de. The judges Read more…
MIDPEX is the biennial exhibition first held in 1995 and attended by stamp collectors from across the UK. It brings together Specialist Societies with local, national and international dealers covering all aspects of Philately. The spacious venue is the same with extensive free parking and a free shuttle bus from Leamington Spa railway station. It Read more…
The European Academy of Philately (AEP) has revitalised, improved, and modernised its bilingual (French, English) website. Data migration is still underway and is expected to be completed soon. Most entries in the Academy, Members, Publications, and Awards sections are now online. Honorary President Jean Voruz is leading the effort, assisted by President Peter Suhadolc and Read more…
Chris King RDP Hon FRPSL has circulated a 181-page Handbook on Danish Philatelic Literature, comprising: Philatelic Literature: – The First Danish Stamp Album – Handbooks, Monographs, and Catalogues – Philatelic Periodicals and Journals Official and Commercial literature relating to postal services Philatelic History: – Some Early Illustrations of Danish Stamps – Philatelic Literature and Authors, Read more…
John Davies RDP has sent us the details about the forthcoming Great Britain Philatelic Society (GBPS) meetings. On Saturday, 14 December, from 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm (London time), Darin P. Cherniwhan will give a presentation on Digital Philately via Zoom. According to the GBPS, “The presentation promises to be an enlightening journey into the Read more…
With just a few weeks remaining until the opening of the 20th edition of the Balkanfila exhibition in Thessaloniki, the current newsletter presents a comprehensive narrative covering its history from the first edition in Varna in 1965 to last year’s 19th edition in Belgrade. In other contents: The establishment of the Balkanfila Working Group Exhibitions, Read more…
The Spanish Philatelic Federation (FESOFI) website reports: The 62nd National Philatelic Exhibition, EXFILNA 2024, organized by FESOFI, CORREOS, and the Vallisoletano Philatelic Group (EXFILNA 92, EXFILNA 04, and EXFILNA 2011), with the collaboration of the Hon. City Council of Valladolid, the Royal Mint-FNMT, the Federation of Philatelic Societies of Castilla y León, ANFIL, and EDIFIL, Read more…
AMSIPEX-25 is a virtual exhibition organised by the Air Mail Society of India Foundation (AMSI) to celebrate World Air Mail Day (18th February). It will run from 15 to 23 February 2025. Exhibitors from all over the world are invited to participate in Aerophilately, Astrophilately, Philatelic Literature, and Youth Classes. IREX and entry forms are Read more…