Glossary of Philatelic Terms

FUGITIVE INKS
Colors which 'run’ or 'bleed when damped. These are used in printing certain stamps to prevent people washing off the postal markings and using the stamps again.
IMPERFORATE
Without perforation, as in the case of all very early issues, which had to be separated with scissors.
LOCALS
Stamps produced solely for use on short distance letters, and having no postal value outside a limited
MINIATURE SHEET
A single stamp or group of stamps with a margin on all sides with a special design
MINT CONDITION
An unused stamp in perfect condition, just as it is sold across the post office counter, with perforation complete, and the original gum on the back.
OVERPRINT
A further printing made on a stamp so that it can be used for another purpose
PERFIN
A stamp perforated across the center with the initials of a company or other organization.
PERFORATION
The rows of holes between stamps to ensure separation without tearing the stamps themselves.
PERFORATION GAUGE
Size of perforation varies, and some stamps have been issued with more than one perforation. The gauge is printed sheet or card of celluloid for checking the size.
PRE CANCEL
Stamps issued by the Post Office pre printed with words or lines which prevent further use of the stamp.
PROVISIONALS
Stamps on sale for only a limited time during an emergency caused by a shortage of regular issues, or because money has so lost its value that the normal issue is no longer suitable