eBay Chat: Stamps

I've got Matt solidly emplaced on the eUSC Web Page as the APS Representative. Thanks Matt!

Posted by bradstonian ( 1223

)

on Apr-22-07 at 22:20:01 PDT

Hi Mitchell,

OK, I'll make contact on behalf of the club.

Martin.

Posted by antonius-ra ( 623

)

on Apr-22-07 at 22:00:07 PDT

Matt Most Excellent!!! We could not have a better person in the position.
Bill S. Please add Matts name to the roster as APS rep. YAHOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!

Posted by abt1950 ( 224

)

on Apr-22-07 at 19:56:02 PDT

Good night to all and to all sweet dreams of an active eusc, showing off collections and learning, and my finding the student papers that I seem to have lost. Anne

Posted by paperhistory ( 1976

)

on Apr-22-07 at 19:55:43 PDT

Mitch: I am present and accounted for (and yes, I accept and confirm).

was off this weekend playing with my kids and taking advantage of the first truly nice weekend to get outside and get some yard and other work done. Having spent 4 days in Washington at a conference last week I didn't get much computer time this weekend!

Posted by antonius-ra ( 623

)

on Apr-22-07 at 19:46:09 PDT

Matt aka Paperhistory If you are among the living could you please check in? We have an important job for you (which I think you accepted) but it needs conformation.

Posted by antonius-ra ( 623

)

on Apr-22-07 at 19:44:21 PDT

Lynn Many thanks for stepping up to the plate!
I've put you on the list of volunteers.
It would be helpful to promote the club at the Portland show. Perhaps you, Bill Seymour and Sheryll can work on that?

Posted by jaywild ( 934

)

on Apr-22-07 at 19:40:30 PDT

Lindy… Ha! Looks like somebody misspelled “fuchsia”…

Good sleuthing though!

Jim

Posted by stamphick! ( 336

) on Apr-22-07 at 18:56:49 PDT

jbthree...It is not only alright but it is even encouraged.

Posted by pegonthe-bay ( 0 )

on Apr-22-07 at 18:52:08 PDT

ANNE: Thanks again, I guess I am just out of my league here, so I will just list them and see what happens.
MATT:Also, thank you. I use price guides for alot of stuff,i.e., antiques and collectibles, so I assumed that guide would have prices too.
------------------------------------------------------------
Learning how many perforations a stamp is supposed to have?
Fuggeddaboudit! I will leave the stamp collecting to the philatelists, ha ha. I bid you all, adieu!

Posted by jbthree ( 859

) on Apr-22-07 at 18:32:37 PDT

What it was
You could view all my photo on Photobucket
I had over 50 different picture on my web host.
Think I figure it out.
Head out to work in a little.
All have a safe night

Posted by 19thcentpostal ( 183

)

on Apr-22-07 at 18:26:20 PDT

ant-ra Just caught up on the latest on the board. I have followed this board since starting ebay. I have always received help when asked and now, perhaps, I can pay back some of the kindness shown to me. Sign me up for whatever. I plan on attending the big show in Portland in august if that makes a difference. Lynn

Posted by antonius-ra ( 623

)

on Apr-22-07 at 18:21:19 PDT

Jbthree I don't understand your question
"Am I putting to much in the listing where you can view all my web host picture?"
I've tried to figure it out by looking at your posts and card but I can't. If you could rephrase it, it might help.

Posted by jbthree ( 859

) on Apr-22-07 at 17:56:39 PDT

Thanks for the vote of confident.
Am I putting to much in the listing where you can view all my web host picture ?

Posted by abt1950 ( 224

)

on Apr-22-07 at 17:52:52 PDT

jbthree: Of course!!!! What's the point of having this board if we can't brag about our collections and/or learn something.

Posted by abt1950 ( 224

)

on Apr-22-07 at 17:51:16 PDT

jbthree: Good job! It took me forever to get links right, and I still mess up.

Grampamatt: Don't mean to ignore you. Welcome to the chat board. Unfortunately, the Postal Commemorative Society is one of those "pseudo-collectible" outfits that sells overpriced stuff to novice collectors. I believe it's associated with the Danbury Mint. You might try doing a search of completed items on ebay to get some idea of resale value. I doubt that your friend will get back what was put into it. Sorry.

Anne

Posted by jbthree ( 859

) on Apr-22-07 at 17:43:45 PDT

Question ?
Is it ok to show item in my collection and ask for opinion.

Posted by abt1950 ( 224

)

on Apr-22-07 at 17:42:25 PDT

I was about to make a formal motion, but then realized that we'd have to call for a vote, yada, yada, yada.

Posted by antonius-ra ( 623

)

on Apr-22-07 at 17:39:00 PDT

Anne I knew the topic would be difficult and be to broad but I feel it needed to start somewhere.
I agree that it might be a good idea to let the topic run through the week as you suggest. If that was meant to be a motion I second it. If not lets do it anyway. It would be nice to develop at least a couple items enough to vote on next weekend. If we make any progress with that I do think we should devote a few other meeting in the future.
Possibly alternate between stamp discussion and club "awareness and direction" for monthly topics.

I do think in some way we can use ebay as a vehicle to interest future collectors. As a group of some of the most intelligent people I know, this should not be a monumental task.
Is there a Stamp Day anymore? If so it would be quite cool
for people to get a hold of the local elementary and middle school and try to organize with Geography and History teachers, an introductory to stamps. Some of the retired folks might find that a very rewarding endeavor.

Posted by abt1950 ( 224

)

on Apr-22-07 at 17:22:54 PDT

Mitch: Perhaps we should continue the discussion over the course of the week? There have been some good ideas thrown out and it would be a shame to see them dropped. At the end of the week, there could be a call for resolutions and a vote at the next meeting???

I've been trying to think of ways to increase our influence with eBay, but I don't see that happening through this organization specifically. Not right now at any rate. It's hard enough for the philatelic Big Leagues to have any influence. Perhaps a better tactic would be to unite with various other groups of disgruntled eBay users. That won't address concerns specific to philately, but it might help with general eBay problems. Other than that, some of us have a little influence through personal connections with other philatelists and through individual effort, but that's about it. But that doesn't stop us from continuing to be vocal.

Encouraging children to take up the hobby--that's tough. I speak as a mother of a 20 year old whom I couldn't interest in stamps, despite my best attempts. Even his best friend, whom he considers a bit of a nerd thinks stamps are boring.

We might try something like a collectibles thread for kids and stamps or even try starting an ebay group (does that part of ebay still exist?) Juana, one of our old posters, started a stamp club at her son's school, and had some success. She might have some suggestions. This topic is worth a discussion in and of itself.

There are lots of other things we can do to revitalize club activities. The idea of "guest posters" from local clubs or possible experts in specific areas is a good one, although I'm a little afraid of what he/she might encounter from some of our regulars. I tried something like that when I was President, but my guest never showed. That doesn't mean that it couldn't be done successfully however.

Final thoughts: The big thing that underlies all of this stuff is the need for publicity. If no one knows about us, no one will come.

Anne (exiting stage right before she's physically dragged off)

Posted by jim_lawler ( 1290

)

on Apr-22-07 at 17:07:20 PDT

Paul (stamps12345 )
You’re right, I should have specified where I disagreed with you. Your subsequent post clarified your previous post and the “disagreement” is a moot point. I agree with much of what you said in the second post. The first were primarily negative (disband) and the second (Your Missing The Boat) was positive. Sorry about the brusqueness of my post. It was before coffee and I posted in a hurry. Please accept my apologies.
As to what I can put forward, please see my previous post. I made two offers, neither of which has drawn any response as yet.

Jim L.

eUsc member

Posted by antonius-ra ( 623

)

on Apr-22-07 at 16:54:34 PDT

Paul Did you happen to see what the topic for the meeting was?
I think you just voiced it pretty well, so your words seem pretty dog on confusing regarding you previous posts.

My whole idea of this meeting was to try and get the club to pull together and get some idea of what direction the club should have. The outcome has been less than what I hoped for but I think it was the proper order of business for the first meeting.

Posted by antonius-ra ( 623

)

on Apr-22-07 at 16:47:57 PDT

Martin Thanks for your thoughts. I cannot see that contacting that publication could do nothing but good for the club. Please do what you think is proper in that regard. If you need any help please feel free to contact myself, Peter or Bill S.

Posted by iomoon ( 1050

)

on Apr-22-07 at 16:44:33 PDT

Had not seen it before but am not impressed. I can go to opening plus S&H.

Posted by antonius-ra ( 623

)

on Apr-22-07 at 16:44:16 PDT

Et al Well, I was going to apologize for not being around all day but it doesn't seem like much has happened.
Had to take a drive to catch a hot deal on a car for my Daughter-in-law (she's very happy)

I had hoped some more ideas might spring from the topic. Other than ex officers of the club very litte has been offered. I was hoping several others might pop out of closet and say: "hey, I want to help just give me something to do".
I have not seen any motions to vote on, concerning some of the items that have been discussed. If anyone (club members)would like to do so, I think now would be the time. A few of the suggestions were:
1. should we have our own private chat (I think that one has pretty much been shot down already)
2. Should we charge dues to give the club a little bit of money to further the clubs agenda (if there even is one)?
This would also help in weeding down the membership role of people who are totally inactive. I completely agree with Marius that it would be better to have 100 active members than 20% of 500.
3. I think there has been pretty good consensus for linking from sellers listings to the chat and EUSC club page. Is anyone willing to donate an hour or two of their time to work up a banner than can be used by all?
4. The flyer to be handed out at shows seems to be another popular idea. Again is there a copy of the old one? Any suggestions of what should be on it or added to it?
5. Getting children interested? This might be the most important and hardest one but it would be nice if some others could think of some ideas.

I have lots of Ideas but nothing is really up to me. I'm not a dictator and this is a democratic organization i.e. I ain't gonna do it all or ask the few who seem to care to
pull more than their fair share.
If there is really such a lack of interest then so be it.
I can just try and come up (hopefully with help) for yet another 11 monthly stamp talk meetings that havn't been done several times before.

Mitchell........da prez

Posted by iomoon ( 1050

)

on Apr-22-07 at 16:05:06 PDT

Peter

Ireally enjoyed my time in the Boy Scouts, we used to camp at Ringwood every year.
Nice to see it celebrating and having their 100th anniversary celebrated this year.
I never did make it to Queen's Scout (girls got in the way).

eUSCmember.

Posted by stamps12345 ( 223

) on Apr-22-07 at 16:04:27 PDT

ANNE ----Your saying the same thing that i was saying earlier.You use the term NIHILST which means that the postings here are senseless and without direction .This is exactly what I posted .That this board is Leaderless ,it doesn't have any reflection on the current president ,this board has been leaderless for some time .

What i mean by leaderless is that it has no direction ,sure there are some signs of a leader stepping forward like Alec and his idea of the A to Z stuff . But it took a few who posted after Alec made his idea known that took the ball and ran with it .

We need to decide on a given idea or group of ideas and it will take a few to run with it and no its not going to be a success in the first week or second week but leadership is knowing what direction you want to go and pulling all the other into that direction sure some will go quietly but others are going to fight it and others will tell you why its not going to work .Leadership is not one person here but a group that says were going this way with you or without you .Leadership is not a group activity ,its one or two who made a commitment to pull the group in that direction .

Leadership will be from the few who step up to make it work in the long term ........paul

Posted by keleofa ( 3421

)

on Apr-22-07 at 15:13:55 PDT

JB3,

Keep asking questions -- that's one way to learn. Also, eBay is a FANTASTIC resource for learning. Read carefully the listings, watch the prices they sell (or don't sell) at, and read philatelic literature. Most USA libraries carry the Scott catalogs. Much more information is available on the internet.

Matt in Arizona

Posted by stamps12345 ( 223

) on Apr-22-07 at 15:09:08 PDT

sorry about the bold

Posted by stamps12345 ( 223

) on Apr-22-07 at 15:07:37 PDT

JIM LAWLER Ok you disagree with me ,well thats not shocking news on this board .But you need to say what you disagree about :
Is it that $100 notes is not chump change?
Is it that you disagree about me working on Sunday and should be in church?
Is it that you don't want to share this board with other stamp clubs and develop a time period for different stamp subjects that will attract different people for their special interest ?
If you 're disagreeing ,what is it that your able to put forward ????.....paul

Posted by jbthree ( 859

) on Apr-22-07 at 15:03:37 PDT

Thanks for the information keleofa.
Just startibg to collect and want to know what I brought at a estate sale are of any value.
Some are attach to 3 different books.
I see that there are different way to rate stamp.
Just trying to learn as I go along.
Thanks again

Posted by mini*lindy ( 346

)

on Apr-22-07 at 14:57:33 PDT

jayJim
On that Egyptian lot I worked out Anne was bidder 5.. if you hold your mouse over the VIEW LINK at the end of each line, it tells you bidder had a blue star and has been a member of ebay for more than 5 years --
so, although not perfect, sometimes if you 'think' you know who the other bidders are, you can do some sleuthing to eliminate / confirm your suspicions!!

Linda
a non-granny again now that all grandkids are back at school this week

Posted by grampamatt5 ( 55

)

on Apr-22-07 at 14:39:41 PDT

Good afternoon. I am trying to help a friend determine if a stamp collection her husband left to her has any value. He has a number of books from the Postal Commemorative Society. One such book is " The First U.S. Commemorative Stamp Issues ". I assume the stamps are not original but reproductons. The first one in this book is the 1 cent Columbus in Sight of Land Stamp as well as a bit of history of the stamp and its representation. Thank you, Matt

Posted by abt1950 ( 224

)

on Apr-22-07 at 14:38:59 PDT

Peg: Can you identify the stamps on your envelopes from the postal guide? Even an old one can be used to ID stuff. It's easy with some stamps, not so easy with others, because some look alike but have important differences in the number of perforations or the watermarks.

The standard guide for value is the Scott catalog. Most libraries have a copy. But again, value is low for most stamps and is, as Matt says, theoretical.

Anne

Posted by keleofa ( 3421

)

on Apr-22-07 at 14:21:20 PDT

JB3,

Price for what purpose? Scott is a guide for stamps in a particular condition while the USPS sells current postage stamps and collectibles. You cannot negotiate with the USPS on a percentage of their price but you can negotiate with stamp dealers for a lower percentage of Scott CV. Scott does not sell stamps so their prices become theoretical.

Matt in Arizona

Posted by pegonthe-bay ( 0 )

on Apr-22-07 at 14:18:37 PDT

Dear Anne, thank you for the information. Unfortunately, I am behind the times and don't know how to post a link or what a scan of my covers is. Also, I noticed y'all talking about U.S. Postal Service guides, and I happen to have one of those from 1970. Is that worth anything? It doesn't have prices in it.

Posted by jbthree ( 859

) on Apr-22-07 at 14:03:41 PDT

Which is the better price guide to use.
Scott or the U.S. Postal Service

Posted by abt1950 ( 224

)

on Apr-22-07 at 13:55:49 PDT

The honorable mention. I did a sloppy manual snipe, but was probably e-outsniped. The winner is a major dealer and collector of Egyptian stuff on eBay.

Anne

Posted by wickedpatti609 ( 3374

)

on Apr-22-07 at 13:55:39 PDT

Greetings on this GORGEOUS day!!

Could you please stop by the Giving Board and wish JoJo a Happy Birthday for one of their many challenges??

Just pop right on over to the Giving Board and type "Happy Birthday JoJo" or post a pic or whatever you'd like to wish her a great birthday and help their challenge for OCFT (Operation Cards for Troops)!

Thanks once again for participating!

Posted by jaywild ( 934

)

on Apr-22-07 at 13:39:19 PDT

Anne… Which bidder were you? For me the list only shows up as “Bidder 1” etc.

Jim

Posted by abt1950 ( 224

)

on Apr-22-07 at 12:24:06 PDT

Curses! Outbid on this lot of Egyptian essays

Anne

Posted by mainer111 ( 1013

)

on Apr-22-07 at 11:16:31 PDT

keleofa Thanks, that was very helpful. I have a fewof the real ones. Marge

Posted by keleofa ( 3417

)

on Apr-22-07 at 11:01:18 PDT

Mainer,

A RPPC (Real Photo Post Card) is one that is made from photographic paper. A photographer takes a picture and uses the negative to create a photograph in his darkroom on specially prepared post card stock that has photographic emulsion on the one side. You can tell the difference in several ways. Under a magnifying glass the RPPC will appear very fine as opposed to small dots from a lithographed card. Under a magnifier a regular postcard will look like a comic strip in a newspaper, with all the small dots. RPPC will also be on glossy paper.

Do a search in the postcard section under RPPC and you will quickly see the difference. They are very collectible.

Matt in Arizona

Posted by greenwave4u ( 74

) on Apr-22-07 at 10:53:31 PDT

Talking of boy scouts, the centenary of their founding is celebrated this year in the UK. It all started in 1907, about 3 miles away from where I live, on Brownsea Island in the middle of Poole harbour. For those of you with Google Earth you should be able to see it. It is also one of the few places in the UK where red squirrels are left.
Peter

Posted by mainer111 ( 1013

)

on Apr-22-07 at 10:52:06 PDT

HELLO I have quite a few post cards to sell and would like to know if there is a site I can go to where I can find out what a REAL PHOT CARD IS? thanks, marge

Posted by abt1950 ( 224

)

on Apr-22-07 at 10:01:06 PDT

Afternoon/evening/morning from a warm and sunny NJ.

Marius: I echo your sentiments on the Media Relations Officer. When we redid the constitution a few years back, the office was created specifically so that we could have a higher profile. That hasn't happened. However, for a MRO to be effective, I think we need to have a tighter organization overall. Whether we want to do that--or are able to, given the limitations of a volunteer-based group--is something we need to decide.

On the idea of a threaded chat board, many years ago ccmouse created a board for us to use. The idea was that we would cut and paste interesting discussions from this board onto her board, where they could be preserved. A few people did it, but it languished because it relied on individual iniative. It's still listed on the Yellow Boxes, but comes up with a 404.

I'm not trying to sound like a nihilist, but a lot of stuff has been talked about and even tried. It's just that we need a way to maintain the energy if we want something to succeed.

Anne

Posted by jaywild ( 933

)

on Apr-22-07 at 09:16:52 PDT

Io… So—you want this to appear…

…instead of this…

Just wondering.

Jim

Posted by 776 ( 654

)

on Apr-22-07 at 09:07:18 PDT

iomoon - Thanks for the link.

Gawg, Charter Member eUSC

Posted by iomoon ( 1050

)

on Apr-22-07 at 08:40:50 PDT

For those of you unaware of the requirements for scouting badges, this page provides an overview.

eUSCmember.

Posted by iomoon ( 1050

)

on Apr-22-07 at 08:28:46 PDT

Jim

It's a work in progress.

eU COLOR="#ffff00" SIZE=+2>SC
member.

Posted by 776 ( 654

)

on Apr-22-07 at 08:11:39 PDT

antonius-ra - Item #2 is by far the most important of the topics of the meeting. Without new blood stamp collecting is doomed to a slow death. Promoting collecting through established organizations such as the Boy Scouts, Local Clubs, and the USPS seems to be the best bet. I know many don't care for some of the new issues the USPS has come out with in the past, but many are targeted directly at kids.
Does anyone out there know of any other organizations that can help promote stamp collecting?

Gawg in beautiful Georgia

Posted by keleofa ( 3417

)

on Apr-22-07 at 08:05:50 PDT

Claghorn,

If that suitcase lot is for real.... WOW!

I often have daydreams about coming across something like that! Thanks for sharing,

Matt in Arizona

Posted by jaywild ( 933

)

on Apr-22-07 at 08:03:54 PDT

Io… Rather than a logo, as I am guessing you intended, this is displayed—

Jim

Posted by iomoon ( 1050

)

on Apr-22-07 at 07:53:27 PDT

Good day all.

Some good ideas so far.

eU SIZE=+2 color=orange>SC
member.

Posted by claghorn1p ( 410

)

on Apr-22-07 at 07:51:32 PDT

Somehow this appears real. Do you know Kniffka Philatelie?

Description:

We are proud to present this really unbelievable holding classic US covers. We found the old suitcase in the big lot we bought from this old building in the US as you can see on the last two pictures of this lot (what is in these last two pictures is just to show you where it come from – that material is not part of today`s offer).

This old lot you will never see another one like it – we think any dealer or auction house would be proud to have such a nice lot!

We found this lot of covers in an old traveling suitcase – in this case you can not judge the insides by the container!

We are sorry to all of you who know this area very well – we will do our best to give you good informations.

At the same time, the Deutsche-Briefmarken-Revue will feature our remarkable project on a daily basis. The german collectors association BDPH plans to summarize the course of the auctions after their end in its specialised magazine.

Posted by cobbie10 ( 6095

)

on Apr-22-07 at 07:07:42 PDT

jbthree

My last zeppelin flown postcard was this lot - 180100869078. Only sold for $15. I have had others similar to yours that have sold for up to $40 in the past.

Your best bet would be to list it on Ebay with a starting price of $9.50. Make sure you put Zeppelin Flown Cover and the date in the title. Many people look out for these and, if it interests more than a couple of people they could battle out to win it and push the price higher. Make sure yo picture both back and front when listing.

Posted by greenwave4u ( 74

) on Apr-22-07 at 06:16:35 PDT

Marius Thanks for making the membership issue clear, as a relative newbie I did wonder where most of the listed members had gone to. I would fully support a good pruning if it is not to difficult to work out.
I also would not support a separate forum for eUSC members, I enjoy the freewheeling style of this one, where I can drop in when I feel like it, just a pity that so much good stuff gets lost after 200 postings.
To get more PR for eUSC we need to get more PR for this board. What about modifying the yellow box to include direct links to organisations in exchange for a link to this board, whilst maintaining the "nested" links we already have. Note there is a lot of spare space within the yellow that could be put to good use:-) I have been looking at the Coins chat site and their version of "yellow box" does exactly that.
cheers
Peter

Posted by greenwave4u ( 74

) on Apr-22-07 at 05:41:58 PDT

Jbthree Well done looks good, not my area but I am sure some of the others here will comment. For the posts that didn't work you can report them yourself using the report button and Ebay will delete them.
cheers
Peter

Posted by jbthree ( 859

) on Apr-22-07 at 05:03:02 PDT

yipee I did it.
Hope this is interesting enough to waste your time to look at.
Have 2 Lindbergh flight letter too.
Thanks

Posted by jbthree ( 859

) on Apr-22-07 at 04:58:32 PDT

front

Posted by jbthree ( 859

) on Apr-22-07 at 04:56:37 PDT

post card

Posted by jbthree ( 859

) on Apr-22-07 at 04:49:51 PDT

didn't work

Posted by jbthree ( 859

) on Apr-22-07 at 04:49:15 PDT

?action=view¤t=zepplinfront.jpg
Trying to learn this sorry if I mess up again.
This is the front of a post card I brought at a yard sale.
Don't want to sell just trying to find out the history of it.
Will post the back next.

Posted by claghorn1p ( 410

)

on Apr-22-07 at 04:36:12 PDT

Welcome to the eBay Stamps Chat Board!

It would be greatly appreciated if chat board participants
provide LINKS to pictures
rather than posting them directly to this board.
Here's how to post a LINK. Thanks.

Yellow Boxes

You're new to stamp trading?
You've acquired a stamp collection you want to sell on eBay?
Check out these links:

Chosen links will open in a new window

This is a community creation by eBay Stamp Board users. Thanks to all who contribute!
Click here for board code download.

05/28/05

Posted by jim_lawler ( 1289

)

on Apr-22-07 at 04:31:29 PDT

Greetings
and an Indiana "Good Morning"
to you all

I also strongly disagree with Paul.
Any organization is only as strong as the member’s effort, time, knowledge and sociability. A few members can’t do it all without that organization beginning to look like a private club.

I’ll have to admit that I’ve not put links to this chat board in many of my auctions. I do like Jim’s (iomoon) simple plug in his auctions. Hopefully I’ll remember to plug in such in future auctions.
I’ve a couple boxes of older stamp packets I could list in the toy category, but would like to see some various attempts at “the wonderful qualities of stamp collecting” before I list them.

FWIW:
I like the suggestion for more regular discussions on focused topics. The trick would be making it known to those who are not regulars here.

I’m not inclined toward another board exclusively for eUsc members. There are other boards I’m aware of and I’ve found that keeping up with one is about all I can handle with my other commitments.

Our club is a small part of what goes on here. That is to our benefit and detriment. bradstonian’s right “we should remind people that this is a public forum in a low key way” and do so on a regular basis. If the club would reach a consensus on wording I’d be glad to add such to my morning bookmark posting.

If we do what we can to make this a friendly, helpful place it’s not enough, we have to get the word out to others.

Flyers have been designed in the past. Does anyone still have the file? If so, could you post a link that could be added to the Yellow Boxes? If not, how about a volunteer for working up a new one?

Paul, If you took a partial box of envelopes along you could easily keep them in order. :8^ )

Jim L.
eUsc member

Posted by stamps12345 ( 223

) on Apr-22-07 at 04:23:41 PDT

Beautiful day in Chicago ,sunny and eigthy degree ,Nice day to fill large cracks in a parking lot with hot tar. Maybe will take a few copies of the stamp newspapers along to read while watching the crew work ......Its too hard to sort and keep stamps in little piles on the front seat of a truck ....paul

Posted by stampmad ( 1084

)

on Apr-22-07 at 03:44:12 PDT

EUSC

An organisation is only as good as the members who make it. Most of our membership takes no part in our club after their first registration. Over 500 members and you would be flat out recognising a quarter of the handles. As has been mentioned I did cull about 50 names about 2 years ago but you could take out 200 more and not see a difference. I would rather have a club of 100 active members than a club of 500 where the majority don't give a hoot.

It is also a travesty that we have not had a decent Media Relations Officer over the years. It was at my instigation that we changed our constitution to accomodate this position and the last 2 years have shown no positive results.

Paul You put forward some good ideas and I would encourage you to join despite the reasons you gave for not having done so.

Marius Wytenburg
Founding member.

Posted by greenwave4u ( 74

) on Apr-22-07 at 02:23:00 PDT

NOIP Success live help has agreed there is a fault with the link to this page from the stamps category page, reported to the techies.
Peter

Posted by ed845 ( 4425

) on Apr-22-07 at 02:15:26 PDT

stamps12345

Paul, you well know the the image of the $100 bills you posted to the board had nothing to do with the person you named or any election.

It was a bet that you proposed with another board member on whose collection was the biggest.

You just don't get it do you?

Posted by infla-alec ( 529

)

on Apr-21-07 at 23:45:41 PDT

I've had a nap and I see several related Eusc monthly meeting posts have already been added since my last posting.

The idea of dues is one I have no objection against. Even if it was only a voluntary contribution rather than a set annual nominal fee. To promote the hobby, Eusc and this board outside of internet postings on a regular basis probably will cost. I like the idea of printed flyers being available for those of us attending local and major stamp shows, which can be handed out and picked up by other attendees. I'm absolutely useless at any sort of graphic design but if someone could design and have such a leaflet available for printing directly from the Eusc site then I'd happily print off some copies for distribution at shows. I'm thinking along the lines of something that gives URL address's for here and maybe some other helpful related stamp sites.

That idea I think would help the, "Youth" a great deal. It would also allow parents to direct their kids to a place where questions and help is available. Let's face it the younger collectors of today and tomorrow are the hobby's future. That said it is not only the youth who need help it is the vast amount of collectors who are completely new to the internet.

The idea of a separate chat room / forum is one I can understand the pro's and con's of. It's just that this board only holds 200 posts and once interesting debates have scrolled off they are lost. Whereas a Forum would have the ability to have threaded posts kept on file that anyone could use search words for to find information they seek. A chat room could be set up and run on an instant message basis that is not archived where only those online and in the room get to read the posts made. Does that make sense ?
Yes such a Forum would require administrators to weed out the spam and remove any unruly posts. But the potential for having somewhere to meet fellow collectors and talk in instant time would I feel be something worth having or at least bears looking into.

Paul Some of your ideas are actually very good ones. However like any board or stamp chat it is only a success based on what the users/ members make of it. Unfortunately all to often as with any stamp club it is usually the minority who volunteer to do all the work and the remainder are hardly ever seen or heard of.They want information sure but are also reluctant to share their knowledge or even show others what they collect. For some collecting is a lonesome hobby and that is how they like to do it. For such people, fine let them do as they please but that is not what I and many others enjoy so much from the hobby.
Inviting others here from local clubs is great but first they need to know where to find us.

I've ranted on enough and all before I've even had a Coffee. So I'll be off now for a hour or two and catch up again later.

Posted by abt1950 ( 224

)

on Apr-21-07 at 23:11:33 PDT

Good night to all and to all sweet dreams of internet chat rooms, organizational directions, and a successful year for Ant-Ra as our Stamp God-in-Chief. Anne

Posted by bradstonian ( 1222

)

on Apr-21-07 at 22:43:39 PDT

Good morning,

'Stamp Magazine' (UK) has a 'Society News' page with a 'how to keep us informed' panel. I have had some dealings with the named contact, and would be happy to make contact on behalf of the club if nobody has done so already.

My opinion is that the EUSC should remain on this board, but as a club we should remind people that this is a public forum in a low key way.

My 5 Year old Grandson has been very interested in railways and steam engines for years, and I keep a couple of stock books of stamps that we look at sometimes, but I think that I am the only person that he has any contact with who is aware that stamp collecting is a hobby.

Mitchell, interesting topic and meeting.

Paul, I am sure that I am not the only person who would consider any bragging to be low class.

Busy for most of the day, will check back later.

Martin.

Posted by abt1950 ( 224

)

on Apr-21-07 at 22:38:50 PDT

Maybe it's because I spent so much time in Chicago, but I've always taken the $100.00 jokes as a reference to Chicago politics. In Chicago, even the dead used to vote. Several times.

Anne

Posted by abt1950 ( 224

)

on Apr-21-07 at 22:31:49 PDT

jbthree: Most of the time the talk is more stamply. But this happens to be monthly meeting time and the topic is less philatelic than usual.

re the eusc: The idea of a separate eusc board has come up before and has been rejected on the theory that any eBay users stamp group should be on the ebay board (if that makes sense). We can always change our minds, but I agree with David that a second board might dilute participation in both. Also having a dedicated eusc board contributes to the aura of cliquishness that we sometimes project.

I like the ideas of keeping a couple of threads going on the collectibles thread. There are all sorts of themes we could try--topical collecting, Today in Postal History (if Jimbo allows it--and this probably should be a collective effort so as not to overburden him), stamp show listings, etc. These threads would also be a great place to post the Yellow Boxes.

BTW, the current issue of Linns has a column by Janet Klug on how to buy stamps on the internet. Half of that column is devoted to eBay. No mention of the eusc. There's a great letter-writing opportunity here.

Anne

Posted by antonius-ra ( 623

)

on Apr-21-07 at 22:08:35 PDT

No,
It says greetings EUSC members!.................
I'm sorry if that is a little over the top of your ability to comprehend.

Posted by stamps12345 ( 223

) on Apr-21-07 at 21:52:41 PDT

MITCH----Did you want to change both of your postings "everyone will join and voice their thoughts and ideas " to" members only can voice their thoughts and idea "

JIMBO and BILLSEY----The reason i don't join is two fold, first -nobody is connected to what i say,im just a outsider. Second ,some want me to join so they can vote to have me kicked out of the club ,it would make their day .

ED 845----You don't understand the humor of voting in elections and the hundred dollar bills its a joke and it goes back to when Roger was running for office.Besides a $100.00 note is chump change on the streets .Bagging about a c-note is low class.Now bragging about a swimming pool thats class .

Posted by keleofa ( 3417

)

on Apr-21-07 at 21:38:31 PDT

USA RPOs...

Saginaw & Manistee RPO 1923

Is there anything special about this cancel or postcard? There has been quite a bit of interest in it.

Matt in Arizona

Posted by antonius-ra ( 623

)

on Apr-21-07 at 21:09:33 PDT

E U S C
Ebay Users Stamp Club Meeting

Greetings EUSC members.
We hope that everyone will join in and voice their thoughts and ideas.

This meetings topic will address the future of the EUSC and what it should or might do to help enhance our beloved hobby.
It is pretty much a wide open subject but some considerations might be:
1. Should we have a membership drive? If so, what avenues might we best pursue in doing this?
2. How might we try to bring younger people into the hobby?
3. What might we do to influence Ebay in running a more secure an honest venue for both buyers and sellers.
4. Could we possibly have closer affiliations with APS and other world philatelic organizations to help promote more honest internet dealings concerning our hobby.
These are just a few thoughts I've had, hopefully others will think of more.
I realize this might be a rather contentious and somewhat boring topic, but I do not think it has been properly addressed in the past.
Any direction that is seen to have merit might require facilitators. This of course means there might be a need for committees and committee chairmans to pursue the wishes of the club. Hopefully we can muster enough teamwork to pursue any "will" the club might seem fitting.

Meeting will end Sunday April 22, 12:00 midnight ebay time (or there abouts)
Mitchell aka Antonius Ra aka da prez

Posted by antonius-ra ( 623

)

on Apr-21-07 at 20:57:07 PDT

Briguy Well, Mauros is not exactly a hot bed of activity. The last post was on April 11th.

Posted by antonius-ra ( 623

)

on Apr-21-07 at 20:49:57 PDT

Stamphick That of course is a reasonable consideration. The reason for this meeting is how to better the club and does it have any real direction?
If we are a real and at least semi-serious entity, should we not have our own place? I am not saying we should do this or should do that. All I have to work with is my own mind and it tells me to ask what members feel the future of the club should be so that we can pursue it.

As far as breaking the camels back, I don't know. There are many other boards and I check some of them out on occasion. I do think if we decide to have a solid meanigful direction our own board may become one of the best.

Posted by thebriguy1 ( 64

) on Apr-21-07 at 20:46:24 PDT

Mitch Yes, we agree!! Either I've been hanging around you liberals too long,...or you're morphing a Republican.

Either way, one or both us,... must now gouge out their eyes. :o)

David I also agree with you! This chats new blood is soley provided by the proximity to EBay. If we move off site somewhere, we'll lose the steady stream of newbies. That said, Mauro's StampChat+ board still exists and is already a great place to vent about stuff that would send the EBay censors into a tizzy. Just Google it, if you don't have the url.......

Posted by antonius-ra ( 623

)

on Apr-21-07 at 20:34:31 PDT

Briguy Hidy ho!
Not sure what your statement to "Dues" was concerning "dues". Did a post get deleted? I do think you echo my thoughts about possible dues for the club. Hey big deal, it would be less than a half cup "o" coffee ala Starbucks. If one actually cared about something they belonged to it would boggle the mind that $2 could stand in the way of promoting it!

Posted by stamphick! ( 336

) on Apr-21-07 at 20:30:24 PDT

I wonder if opening a separate chat might distract from this one and actually hamper our abilities to recruit new members and encourage new collectors.

I think most that post here at least check several boards already. Eventually we might add the straw that breaks the camel's back.

Posted by thebriguy1 ( 64

) on Apr-21-07 at 20:25:15 PDT

PS.......none of my 8c Shermans had the USIR watermark.

not fair. :o(

Posted by billsey ( 844

) on Apr-21-07 at 20:25:06 PDT

I have done a fair amount of research into running a chat board recently. I even put a test system up on the Oregon Stamp Society web site. There's not a great deal of work putting the board up in the first place, but there's a lot of work in keeping the spammers out (as can be seen above). I believe though that with the right amount of tweaking, we could convert that software into an unthreaded board like this one and keep the spam to a minimum... We would have to limit posting to eUSC members though.

Removing members who are no longer active: Marius did quite a bit of work toward this a couple of years ago, and we weeded quite a few of the most obvious ones out. I agree that we should be more proactive with it, but again it's a lot of work. :-(

Paul, I like many of your suggestions on Apr-21-07 at 18:11:24 PDT. The first paragraph was aimed at getting the heat up, but the rest of the post had some very good suggestions. It's too bad you're not willing to put that kind of thought into the club as a member...

Everyone, remember that you'll get a lot better response to your ideas if you couch it as 'wouldn't it be great if we did...' instead of 'you should do...' Volunteers make an organization great.

Posted by thebriguy1 ( 64

) on Apr-21-07 at 20:21:27 PDT

"I see nothing in the last 5 hours about stamps or collecting"

-- Well....have you tried asking a question? Like any group of people who have grown to know eacdh other, the chit-chat of the knitting circle happens. If you ASK your question, an answer ye shall receive....

"Few in their right mind would choose to be associated with the likes of this board and the EUSC."

-- Funny.....but YOUR posts are all over the chat. Either you're not in your right mind, or the statement is blatently false.

Dues - a sticky question, but one whose time has likely come. By dues, I don't mean hefty APS type dues, to fund their trademark liquor and hooker parties. I mean a $2 or $5 a year nominal thing, so EUSC flyers can be thrown around stamp shows and the like. As it is now, such activities are funded out of the good nature (and the pocket book) of a few kind hearts.

Gripe all you want, but for all its flaws this chat IS the first intro many newbies get to philately. Thats more and more true as the mom and pop stamp shops, and the local bourses, disappear. I'll bargain that the majority of newbies who arrived here, found us a good resource for info (and only a few got their heads bit off). EUSC will remain relevant even if its only on how or what we present ourselves as on the chat.

Posted by iomoon ( 1050

)

on Apr-21-07 at 20:17:13 PDT

Mitchell

Thanks.

I used the "clear form" button twice before seeing your reply.

Posted by antonius-ra ( 623

)

on Apr-21-07 at 20:08:00 PDT

Prochute Utopia, yep you are quite right! Impossible!!! What a yucky place anyway. Heaven on Earth, no way. If you want to look at the main reason it is impossible, simply look in the mirror.
You really are a stand up guy, I must say. You claim to have another user I.D. who is a member but you hide behind another to cause disorder. My hats off to you, you're a real noble character. Please send me your request to terminate your membership in the EUSC. I will gladly accept it.

Posted by keleofa ( 3417

)

on Apr-21-07 at 20:06:49 PDT

Due2,

Current Scott value is $2 for the 3c used, $8 for the 6c used. You have some damage there. I would check completed auctions for Scott # O49 & O50

Matt in Arizona

Posted by antonius-ra ( 623

)

on Apr-21-07 at 19:57:51 PDT

Well, perhaps the biggest item we need to consider in this meeting, is if we should finally take the step onto our own chat board. I cannot think of a better reason than the post of: Apr-21-07 at 18:11:24 PDT.
A EUSC chat board, I think, should be limited to members. With a seperate question/help board for visitors.
It would ensure a certain integrity and a guaranteed venue not subject to ebays whims (this chat board gives them nothing and last I heard they only care about the bottom dollar). Also the whims of _
Jimbo Thank you, I'm especially glad you said that.
I really did not want to go there at the time but times do change, or do they?!?!?
If we were to collect dues, you would be my nomination for treasurer!

Posted by due2cents ( 26

) on Apr-21-07 at 19:54:17 PDT

Are these worth a listing fee
Deptstamps

Posted by prochute ( 66

) on Apr-21-07 at 19:36:44 PDT

jimbo I am a EUSC member but under a different user ID so put that in your pipe and smoke it!

greenwave4u There are knowledgeable buyers & reliable sellers. That's quite real for I am both as are many, many others. Too bad if you can't find them....

But I ask: Why keep up the EUSC????. Few in their right mind would choose to be associated with the likes of this board and the EUSC.

vonbag LOL My father would call gorgonzola and limburger chese, "toe" cheese! HA

Posted by dbenson ( 8122

)

on Apr-21-07 at 19:11:17 PDT

jb3,

if you have a question you would like to ask, fire away,

David B.

Posted by 776 ( 654

)

on Apr-21-07 at 19:08:49 PDT

Good evening from beautiful Georgia.
jimbo - ditto.

Gawg

Posted by due2cents ( 26

) on Apr-21-07 at 19:04:53 PDT

jbthree

about Par for this course

what ya collect?
Got any scans?

Am not a member of any thing ( except human race)

It seems that the possibilties of spreading the word a little better might be a direction.

Why not start three or four threads on the collectibles threads and keep them at top forever.
Just 3 or 4 and you could break down some doors.
Volcanoe alert, Stamp-o-the-Daye", go - nogo ,
of the cyber kind anyway.

Those that prepare their postings on word/note/whereever, Cut and paste on the thread. That means is would never scroll off.

Posted by jbthree ( 859

) on Apr-21-07 at 18:41:39 PDT

I'm in a small town and would like to join up with a stamp club.
Just too far away to attend.
That this would be a good site to learn alittle,But it look like it just another slam bam thank you ma.
See nothing in the last 5 hours about stamps or collecting.
Is it that I'm missing the point ?

Posted by dbenson ( 8122

)

on Apr-21-07 at 18:31:38 PDT

G1,

I just asked the buyer what it was, will let you know if & when I get an answer,

David B.

Posted by stamps12345 ( 223

) on Apr-21-07 at 18:25:47 PDT

Got to go to the bar ,Its fight night live from England tonight ......9:00 on Spike tv for those who like cage fighting .

Posted by stamps12345 ( 223

) on Apr-21-07 at 18:11:24 PDT

YOUR MISSING THE BOAT I can't believe the lame postings here and the lack of leadership .Your playing around with "what ifs" and pie in the sky plans .But people come on here for light friendship and come on here to say a few things and see what other collectors are talking about . Everybody doesn't want to play policeman for e-bay or going around beating up little kids until they pick up a stamp album. gee get real

You all need to look at your strengths and positive things. Like the vast knowledge that is at our fingure tips and the 24 hours chat room 24/7 for people to talk . Also the ability to answer questions faster and quicker than any other chat or posting board .Also the ability to take questions in all major languages and answer back .This chat room has the ability to post a link of almost any stamp faster and quicker than anyone else .This room has some very strong points but most of you can't see it and surely don't know how to capitalize on it .

Its time we invite 10 or 20 other stamp clubs to have a hour slot or a eveing for their worldwide members to talk and maybe a show and tell so they can grow their membership ....its a win win situation for everybody .

How about a German day or a U.S. specialise day there are many collectors who would drop in if their interest is being talked about regularly on a weekly basis ......its other collectors who will make this place a hot spot for discussions that are a interest to get them coming back .

We also should have a e-bay night which talks about what sells and what is hot and what trends are coming up for the many sellers .............gee ----go after your strong points .

You need to redo the yellow box setup so any collector can see when his subject of interest is going to be the main topic of discussion ,like Tuesday 8:00 the subject is revenues ,that will bring new people and a greater membership ,not a hit and miss setup were people are looking at $100 notes .......paul

Posted by g.1 ( 1110

)

on Apr-21-07 at 18:07:42 PDT

David We must have missed SOMETHING!?

Posted by iomoon ( 1050

)

on Apr-21-07 at 17:48:40 PDT

Mitchell

Admitedly it's a very long shot.
Perhaps APS members could persuade eBay to put a little icon after their ID's as well.
They, and we as part of them, seem to have a little more clout.

eU SIZE=+2>SC
member.

Posted by antonius-ra ( 623

)

on Apr-21-07 at 17:29:51 PDT

JWS Well, I think you must be kidding? Sure that would be very nice but the chances of that happening are probably lower than ziltch! If they could charge you for that little icon, the chances might improve a little.
I don't know how exactly we as a club can influence ebay but sheer numbers couldn't hurt. We have a little over 500 members at present but I doubt anyone can identify many more than 100 of them that have posted on the board in the last several years. If we had a stronger an more dedicated base (not including the dedicated regulars) perhaps we might excersize more clout. I really cannot think of a better path for the group than to be a watch dog of the "philatelic net" in promoting honest dealings. Also a place where people with questions about philately can come and get honest answers to their queries.

Posted by vonbag ( 174

)

on Apr-21-07 at 16:44:36 PDT

I wholeheartedly second what Jim (Professor James W.-S.) proposed, with the benefit of quoting I shall drastically skip on kind words like "if" and "perhaps":

"[...]...if eBay could be persuaded to include a little icon after names of eUSC members, maybe with just eUSC. [...]"

I have a little experience with large companies and philatelic dealers.
Their ostracism sometimes is outrageous.

Instead of thinking of a Ferrari automobile to drive them, screaming like a baby whilst accelerating, thinking of their succesful philatelic speculations, through a highway, that same vehicle could much better serve to them working on the fields, to do something good for humainity,
instead of CHEATING it!!!
And I say this with sorrow and anger, at the same time (no such things as 'envy' or 'revenge' included).

How come that the name 'Bolaffi' comes to mind.

We as the eUSC form a nice group of dedicated philatelists.
I hereby vote for PRESERVATION and constant IMPROVEMENT of the group.
Our purpose is to educate the uneducated, to explain them what is bad and what might be good.
To show them that the way of philately does not include any vulgar rich farmers... that think in investment terms.
The bound between Philately and Honesty must be understood and Appreciated.
I believe Philately can only survive through preservation and care of integrity in the (very) long term.

My point of view.

Paolo Bagaglia

Posted by iomoon ( 1050

)

on Apr-21-07 at 16:36:44 PDT

OK Anne

Maybe we could do it ourselves by including a Jim-type signature at the end of our posts.

eUSC member.

Posted by vonbag ( 174

)

on Apr-21-07 at 16:20:57 PDT

P.P.S.
Roger, CYE, s'il vous plaît.
Paolo

Posted by abt1950 ( 224

)

on Apr-21-07 at 16:02:47 PDT

eBay and EUSC: My understanding is that eBay wanted nothing official to do with the EUSC. We were originally the "EBay Stamp Club" and changed our name because of their objections.

Anne

Posted by abt1950 ( 224

)

on Apr-21-07 at 15:59:51 PDT

Pegonthebay: Welcome to the stamp chat board. In answer to your question, leave the stamps on the envelope, at least for now. Some people like to collect stamps "on cover" as a part of postal history. Scroll down to the Yellow Boxes and follow the links there. That will give you a basic understanding of selling stamps.

That said, most stamps (and covers) aren't worth very much. Scotts' stamp catalog (which is the standard in the US) lists most stamps at the minimum value of 20 cents. That 20 cents is really just to cover the dealer's overhead, and the actual value of the stamp may only be a penny or two.

If you can post a link to a scan of your covers, we can give you more detailed advice.

Hope this helps, Anne

Posted by iomoon ( 1050

)

on Apr-21-07 at 15:50:30 PDT

Ed

Good points and I'm sorry you have been subjected to harrasment for your posts.

Perhaps, and this is a very long shot, if eBay could be persuaded to include a little icon after names of eUSC members, maybe with just eUSC. After all, they have no problem with

images or

Posted by pegonthe-bay ( 0 )

on Apr-21-07 at 15:47:58 PDT

I am new to e-bay and need some help. I have stamps still on the envelopes and letters still in them, but I really don't know how to sell them. Should I remove the stamps or sell them on the envelopes,and if so should I leave the letters in or take them out. I have some nice stamps but don.t know what to do .

PLEASE HELP ME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Posted by antonius-ra ( 623

)

on Apr-21-07 at 15:41:49 PDT

Alex I have also been wondering if the EUSC should get it's own chat board. There would be quite a few advantages, like weeding out non members or bothering them wih our monthly meetings on this public forum <;~`)
If we do decide to take measures to greatly increase membership it might become a neccessity. I've been looking around for a free one, if anyone knows of a good one please let me know.
Another question I've pondered is whether we might have yearly dues? $2 a member would go along ways to help with advertising etc and tightening up the membership role. I certainly don't think it would effect anyones budget.

Those two questions have been discussed in the past. They are perhaps a little to much to deal with this meeting but I think should be considered at some time.

Posted by ed845 ( 4425

) on Apr-21-07 at 15:33:27 PDT

I used to have a link on my auction pages to the EUSC but took it down after I was subjected to obscene emails, bullying and personal attacks on this board.

I also did not see the point in one poster posting images of $100 notes and bragging about them. Why would I want people interested in my auctions thinking I was party to such behaviour.

Why should I publicise something that tolerates some of the racist and spiteful posts that have appeared here in the last 6 months or so. So sorry, no more links from my auctions to this place.

It is obvious except to a few that eBay couldn't care less about the EUSC. Apart from the President who is really just a figurehead who organises monthly meetings I really don't see any point in having anyone else as appointed officers.

Posted by antonius-ra ( 623

)

on Apr-21-07 at 15:14:16 PDT

Thanks for the "positive" thoughts already. I do think the easiest way, as has been mentioned, is to provide a link to the chat board and the EUSC page in sellers auction pages. It might be nice if a member with slick graphic skills would volunteer to make a nice banner for all of us to use for this purpose.
I think it would also be helpful to have a page printed up to hand out (or simply placed on the sign-in table) at stamp shows. Just a basic flyer that members could copy from the net and print up before attending an event.

I would like to see some ideas about how to introduce children into the hobby. Having been a Scout master for many years I always found it difficult to hold their interest in philately but there must be some ways. I was thinking that some sellers might put some lots together with a couple hundred different world stamps and run them in the toy category (or others). With an explantation of all the wonderful qualities collecting has. I would think that many parents would be glad to give up a few bucks to try and interest their children in a past time that has "real learning" attributes.

Posted by infla-alec ( 529

)

on Apr-21-07 at 15:11:28 PDT

Eusc meeting topic This should prove to be an interesting debate with many differing voices of opinion. Hopefully a subject that can be discussed and not become one of the infamous war of words sometimes seen here.

The aim of the Eusc is to promote and educate others in the hobby. No matter what aspect or level someone may be interested in. The regular posters here are all willing to share their knowledge be they members of the Eusc or not and that is to be commended. The problem lies in actually being able to get that message across. Thus Peter's eforts at having ebay give more direct links at the start of stamp listings would I'm sure go a long way to at least letting others know help is available. I also agree with for thise of us selling to try and remember to add in links that will at least show others where help can be found.

The yellow box I think is another invaluable resource for tips, hints and advice.

In this day and age though I think collectors prefer to have their questions answered almost immediately and so perhaps because the Eusc doesn't have it's own chat room or message forum and has no place really for ones to post questions and receive answers, we should perhaps ask is that something that is feasible for the Eusc to have ? Other than someone being directed here the uninformed will sadly be none the wiser to any faults or scams they are falling into. Obviously not everyone is willing to listen or take on board any advice given but at least the effort will have been made. You can lead a horse to water but can't force it to take a drink.

Keeping the membership site updated is a problem I know. I sometimes also do wonder where all these collectors who joined have disappeared to. Yes I know some are regular , "background readers" who for whatever reason decide not to post openly here. Could it be they fear being ridiculed ? I'd hope that not to be the case.

Fly by night posting I'm afraid as I'm tired so I'll try and read back and comment further once I've managed to get a few hours sleep.

Posted by vonbag ( 174

)

on Apr-21-07 at 15:11:25 PDT

P.S.: that "status mentis" might evolve, be promoted and then be performed ('outed') by those who feel or were/are considered to be as strangers (or aliens) in the country they live.

As a child I didn't like the prosciutto, which, when pronounced in Italian, sounds like "prochute", no pun or offense intended to Phil!
I was an alien in my own small village. Maybe that's why I do as a villain, sometimes!
I came to appreciate its taste later on.
Though, my wife still thinks it smells of feet, like the gorgonzola.
LOL

Paolo

Posted by vonbag ( 174

)

on Apr-21-07 at 14:56:43 PDT

Not wanting to have a go at Paul, whom, not long ago I confessed the similiarty of our 'status mentis' (e.g.: very prone to "shoot" sometimes, not for nothing I am calle 'loose cannon'-- some take it seriously and take permanent umbrage, whereas others understand my, to say the least, explosive attitudes ;-))I quote Jimbo 100%.
In "ideal", often confused with "utopic", times of war, that might be called 'defeatism'.
I beleive some, for personal reasons, wanted to have a go at our Mitchell, though.
If someone had written something like that when I was the "president", I might have needed a thousand camomiles before making any comments!

Take it easy you all!

All the best,
Your Italian friend, Paolo

Posted by jimbo ( 393

)

on Apr-21-07 at 14:44:25 PDT

Phil and Paul,
Since neither of you have ever joined the eUSC and your posts have been frequently controversial, why should anyone pay any attention at all to what you think or do?

jimbo

Posted by greenwave4u ( 74

) on Apr-21-07 at 14:37:11 PDT

Phil"knowledgeable buyers & reliable sellers" is also a utopian ideal. It is a fact of life that there will always be stupid buyers and dodgy sellers, when it comes to stamps the opportunities for fraud are immense. If we are able to do our bit to help what's the problem?
Your points on membership are well made perhaps Bill can comment on the difficulties of maintaining the list.
Peter

Posted by prochute ( 66

) on Apr-21-07 at 14:20:52 PDT

EUSCpros & cons...

PREAMBLE: (in part)

It shall be our purpose to further the exchange of information and cooperation among members, to promote philatelic knowledge.

this is being done here in this chat and others on a regular basis without the EUSC or its membership.

ethical stamp collecting and trading, friendship.

friendship is one thing but trying to "promote" ethical anything is a hapless, utopian ideal.

and to conduct club programs and activities to advance the general interest and welfare of stamp collecting in conjunction with safe trading within the eBay community.

I do not believe this has ever happened en toto. programs and activities to advance the general interest has happened with the A-Z program but conjoining it with safe trading is again, a utopian ideal. knowledgeable buyers & reliable sellers make for safe trades - not the EUSC
MEMBERSHIP: Article I

Membership may be revoked if one or more of the following situations occur.

3. The member has not engaged in an eBay transaction for a period of 12 months.

I can almost guarantee that a very high percentage of membership falls into this area. I did a random search ood 50 members who never chat here and found no activity in YRARS for these "members".

So why are these long defunct users still part of the membership rolls?

In closing, I feel the EUSC is not necessary in 2007 and should be disbanded as it serves no real purpose with eBay or the APS

Phil

Posted by greenwave4u ( 74

) on Apr-21-07 at 14:17:15 PDT

Paul I will let you off:-) "Dis"band is my favourite you lucky guy!

Posted by stamps12345 ( 223

) on Apr-21-07 at 14:13:05 PDT

This band and other bands will be playing in my old neighborhood this summer and I got tickets .These bands....paul

Posted by iomoon ( 1050

)

on Apr-21-07 at 13:59:28 PDT

Anne

Thread just created on collectibles discussion board.

Posted by greenwave4u ( 74

) on Apr-21-07 at 13:35:01 PDT

Sorry Anne just read your post. Forgot to mention I have also approached SG to get a link on their events pages.
Peter

Posted by greenwave4u ( 74

) on Apr-21-07 at 13:32:50 PDT

Mitch First of all best of luck for the year!

On the topic I have been trying to address item 1, i.e. increase the membership. I am sure many of you have noticed that it is no easy task to find this chat board. I have been looking at links and ways to this board, from the UK Ebay site it is a minefield. I have written to the suggestions link on Ebay UK proposing a link from the stamps category page. I received a polite response which was neither negative nor positive, well I will keep pestering them. From the US site there is a link shown on the stamps category page but this doesn't work! (assuming that the link called "join our stamps chat room" is supposed to come to this site). I reported the link failure but no response!

Can I ask all sellers who enjoy reading this board (whether you post or not) to provide a link in your auction sales?

Jim I did try the contact you sent me to no avail, probably sucked into his junk mail.

Paul If that's the way you feel why do you bother to post? I know you get some stick from time to time, but you do have a lot of knowledge don't waste it, share it!
Peter

Posted by jeltonk ( 2465

)

on Apr-21-07 at 13:27:05 PDT

antonius-ra & iomoon

Thanks so much for the info. You are all an invaluable resource

Jeltonk

Posted by abt1950 ( 224

)

on Apr-21-07 at 13:15:13 PDT

Afternoon/evening/morning from a sunny and greening NJ.

Paul, that's not a helpful comment.

Mitch,

whatever goals we ultimately set, any attempt to upgrade our profile has to be accompanied by increased visibility. At the very least, we should be posting meeting announcements on other boards--VSC and Richard's board, for example. That was something I did every month, but I think it's fallen by the wayside. We could also create an EUSC thread on the collectibles threaded board on ebay. Another option, which would require more organization on our part would be to place notices in Linn's or any other relevant publications.
These are the sorts of things that could be done by our Media Relations Officer.

Anne

Posted by iomoon ( 1050

)

on Apr-21-07 at 13:04:31 PDT

I disagree entirely with Paul who lives in a big city and has no problem in attending auctions, shows and stamp clubs if he has he desire.
Some of us live in tiny towns in the middle of nowhere where attending such events is not an option. I can travel a distance equivalent to the entire length of the British Isles and still be in Texas. Actually, the nearest stamp club to me may well be in Chihuahua City, Mexico. Unfortunately, Spanish is not a language I have much fluency in. It is nice to have an internet connection to other collectors, even if they do not collect the same material as ourselves.

The simplest method for advertising both the chat board and the club is to put links in any auction sales that you may put on eBay, something which I have been doing for years. It should also, hopefully, testify to one's integrity in selling items.

Posted by stamps12345 ( 223

) on Apr-21-07 at 12:41:44 PDT

DISBAND

Posted by antonius-ra ( 623

)

on Apr-21-07 at 12:07:22 PDT

E U S C
Ebay Users Stamp Club Meeting
Greetings EUSC members. Today marks the first club meeting of the "new administration".
We hope that everyone will join in and voice their thoughts and ideas.

This meetings topic will address the future of the EUSC and what it should or might do to help enhance our beloved hobby.
It is pretty much a wide open subject but some considerations might be:
1. Should we have a membership drive? If so, what avenues might we best pursue in doing this?
2. How might we try to bring younger people into the hobby?
3. What might we do to influence Ebay in running a more secure an honest venue for both buyers and sellers.
4. Could we possibly have closer affiliations with APS and other world philatelic organizations to help promote more honest internet dealings concerning our hobby.
These are just a few thoughts I've had, hopefully others will think of some more.
I realize this might be a rather contentious and somewhat boring topic, but I do not think it has been properly addressed in the past.
Any direction that is seen to have merit might require facilitators. This of course means there might need be committees and committee chairmans to pursue the wishes of the club. Hopefully we can muster enough teamwork to pursue any "will" the club might seem fitting.

Meeting will end Sunday April 22, 12:00 midnight ebay time (or there abouts)
Mitchell aka Antonius Ra

Posted by jbthree ( 859

) on Apr-21-07 at 10:50:09 PDT

thanks iomoon

Posted by iomoon ( 1050

)

on Apr-21-07 at 10:39:45 PDT

jbthree

Here is your link.
I hasten to add, addressee is not a relative.

Posted by jbthree ( 859

) on Apr-21-07 at 10:25:43 PDT

don't think I did it right

Posted by jbthree ( 859

) on Apr-21-07 at 10:24:50 PDT

stamp?

Posted by jbthree ( 859

) on Apr-21-07 at 10:18:59 PDT

Thanks for the imformation earlier jimbo.
Didn't see the guide line about what to ask.
Until after posting.
I have a US airmail I think around the world 1929.
Don't want to sell it just like to find out about it.
Thinking about start collecting.
Some of these US stamps have a interesting history.
New to the site so sorry about that.

Posted by iomoon ( 1050

)

on Apr-21-07 at 09:21:58 PDT

Good day all.

jeltonk

your second stamps are Italian revenues for transport tax.

Posted by antonius-ra ( 623

)

on Apr-21-07 at 08:27:24 PDT

Jeltonk Yes they are advertising labels with real stamps attached. They were issued in 1924-5. There were about twenty different types, some with rather good value.
See listing after 174G in Scott.
I've never seen the other stamps. They are not Scott listed anywhere.
\
Claghorn Thanks Bill, I arrived at the same conclusion. I'm kind of afraid to post it though as it might be a real mess.

Posted by jeltonk ( 2465

)

on Apr-21-07 at 07:51:10 PDT

Oops - sorry about the bold - my html skills are shaky at best.

Posted by jeltonk ( 2465

)

on Apr-21-07 at 07:50:02 PDT

Today's question - Italian Stamps>
I've got an old Italy collection I'm working on and found a couple of items I've never seen before and am looking for some help/ info with idenfication. First are these. They look like they have advertising in the selvage? What exactly are these and do these have any particular value as individual items? Secondly are these. They look like some sort of transportation issue, but are not listed in Scott, (at least not that I can find) I would like to know if these are anything special, or just common material?
Any help is appreciated!
Thanks, jeltonk

Posted by jaywild ( 933

)

on Apr-21-07 at 06:41:04 PDT

markmarksmarks… Does your stamp look like this? If so, and it is unused and undamaged, then it is worth a considerable amount of money. You can email me (address below) a scan if you like, and I will post it to the board.

jfdire “at” sbcglobal “dot” net.

Jim

Posted by jaywild ( 933

)

on Apr-21-07 at 06:35:33 PDT

bekler21… A quick way (and very accurate) to evaluate any stamp collection is to assess the amount of money spent putting it together. If the stamps were bought at auction or through dealers and hundreds (if not more) were spent on at least a few items, then your collection would have appreciable intrinsic value. If however the stamps were collected merely for fun, saved from envelopes or bought in cheap mixtures from mail-order suppliers, then the value would be commensurate. If you don’t know what was spent, then how are they mounted? If they are loose or disorganized, chances are it is an accumulation-type collection without much monetary value. A collection well organized and protected in albums with explanatory notes etc. would indicate someone took a great deal of trouble to protect the items because they were likely worth something.

Jim

Posted by markmarksmarks ( 0 ) on Apr-21-07 at 06:29:07 PDT

Hi jaywild and jimbo and thank you for responding to my inquiry. I did not know that there could be so many different types. The one I have does not have the perforations as you show in your picture. There is no damage to it and I don't belive that it has been folded. I will attempt to link the pic to this email.

Posted by stamps12345 ( 223

) on Apr-21-07 at 06:28:24 PDT

BEKLER ------Try scanning a few pictures of your stamps and put up a link and we can help,or if you have a few stamps that you think have value describe them the best you can and Im 95% sure i can link a picture of them .

Off to work....the first weekend of work .....no stopping until December.....

Posted by bekler21 ( 0 ) on Apr-21-07 at 05:31:11 PDT

Hi

I was wondering, does anyone know the best way to get stamps valued? I have a few thousand of them but I don't know a lot about them
Any info would be appreciated

Thanks

Posted by jimbo ( 393

)

on Apr-21-07 at 05:23:10 PDT

jbthree,
Scroll down to the Yellow boxes at Apr-20-07 at 03:37:11 PDT and click on the link at the top of the page which will lead you to this page: How To Post Links on the eBay Stamps Chat Board.

I should remind you about the red admonition above: No business please!

jimbo

Posted by jbthree ( 859

) on Apr-21-07 at 04:58:02 PDT

What the best way to post a picture to view on this chat room.
I have a lots of foreign stamps. I like to trade or sale for US stamps

Posted by jim_lawler ( 1289

)

on Apr-21-07 at 04:36:55 PDT

Greetings
and an Indiana "Good Morning"
to you all

Jim L.

Posted by vonbag ( 174

)

on Apr-21-07 at 01:44:18 PDT

Good day all!

Roger Interesting route!
From New York, to make the itinerary a little more spicy to Amsterdam, I'd opt for the way of the Indies: cross the Rocky mountains, depart from San Francisco through the Pacific Ocean, with a stop to Hawaii, then at Vladivostok take the Transiberian railway, Irkutsk, Cita... Moscow, then a stop at Dresden where I have never been, and finally Amsterdam ;-)

Thank you for your very informative & helpful e-mails regarding Swiss classic items!
It saved me some money! I will reply ASAP.

As of yesterday, I looked directly at two collections, both overpriced unfortunately.
It is surprising how many used stamps of the perforated 'Sitting Helvetia' second Issue are inserted in collections (and then, consequently, wrongly evaluated in sales/auctions) as the granite paper Issue (the 40 c. grey, also here this denomination is one of the 'untouchables') and how many of the numeral Issue as the 'white paper' Issue of 1882 whereas they are granite paper, sometimes even those with kontrolzeichen of the second type, KZ II instead of KZI.

Aloha and all the best, Paolo

Posted by claghorn1p ( 410

)

on Apr-21-07 at 00:49:05 PDT

Mitchell Actually, if you look HERE you will see that I had to eliminate ALL CR and LF from the code. I used a filter to generate that code.

Posted by claghorn1p ( 410

)

on Apr-21-07 at 00:46:25 PDT

Mitchell I had the same issue writing the Yellow Boxes code. Against HTML rules, this board puts line feeds wherever you put an Enter for a new line in your HTML. THe secret is to not use amp P or amp BR in your code. Just type in the Enter for new line yourself. Do not use HTML codes for that.

Posted by antonius-ra ( 623

)

on Apr-20-07 at 21:26:53 PDT

hmmm, not quite what my HTML editor showed but I guess it will have to do......

Posted by antonius-ra ( 623

)

on Apr-20-07 at 21:25:49 PDT

<body background=http://solo18.abac.com/mward/collection/background.jpg>

Announcement

E U S C

Ebay Users Stamp Club Meeting

Will commence tomorrow April 21st at 12:00 noon ebay time.

The meetings topic will address the future of the EUSC
and what it should or might do to help enhance our beloved hobby.

Posted by sammlermax1 ( 861

)

on Apr-20-07 at 20:53:19 PDT

Good morning all from a nice Austria.

Posted by figmente ( 884

) on Apr-20-07 at 18:17:17 PDT

I found that, as a buyer in USA, moneybookers will not work. When I made the mistake of winning an auction which wanted to be paid through them I found that I could not fund a moneybookers account. Per their own admission, the test transaction they make to comfirm the card account one submits is rejected, as too subject to abuse, by many issuers. My experience was that this was the case with 4 of them. After 4 failed attempts, moneybookers requires one to wait until one of the unsuccessfull entries passes its expiration date before trying another...

Posted by jim_lawler ( 1289

)

on Apr-20-07 at 17:50:27 PDT

Bookmark

Posted by jimbo ( 393

)

on Apr-20-07 at 16:00:21 PDT

markmarkmark,
Is it like lot numbers 179-181 on this page? These are the first US 5¢ Jeffersons which are sometimes referred to as orangy/brownish - colors vary quite a bit. If they are like these and they are in good condition, as noted below, then eBay is NOT the place to sell them. They would do much better in a major philatelic auction after being expertized.We can do much better with a link to an image.

jimbo

Posted by jaywild ( 933

)

on Apr-20-07 at 15:01:44 PDT

NOIP… I’ve been up this Matterhorn…

markmarksmarks… Can you supply an image of the stamp? Condition is everything. If the stamp is in pristine shape, it could be worth quite a lot—if torn, creased, stained etc. it would be worth very little. Also, there were several different varieties of these stamps issued, some of which are worth considerably more than others.

Jim

Posted by markmarksmarks ( 0 ) on Apr-20-07 at 14:53:58 PDT

Hello collectors. I found a stamp in a book from 1852. It is not used and looks like a brown oragne with a picture of Thamos Jefferson on it with the denomination of 5 cents. Can anyone tell me if this is of value? I have a freiend that has an ebay account and told me that he would sell it for me, but I was wondering what price to ask. Any help would be appreciated. Mark

Posted by lou4cards ( 411

) on Apr-20-07 at 14:46:42 PDT

Hello everybody .. It's day outside in Phila. area.
My grand daughter's brother 16 is interisted in starting a collection of US Commemoratives. He got interisted when he saw his sisters collection. Is there a web site that has list of only US Commemoratives or a book that lists only commemoratives? My older frind just had me buy him a large box of 4 cent commemoratives and some smaller lots. When I ask him why he said he enjoys soaking.
He said he will pay my garnd daughter's brother in stamps for sorting stamps.

Posted by 220man ( 148

) on Apr-20-07 at 14:38:21 PDT

iomoon: St. Helens is steaming again. http://www.king5.com/livecams/sthelens.html

Posted by iomoon ( 1050

)

on Apr-20-07 at 14:32:13 PDT

Good day all.

It seems we are into negaive humidity again.
About time they fixed their computer program.

Posted by bjornmu ( 915

) on Apr-20-07 at 13:22:18 PDT

I was in Zermatt two years ago, had one full day there. I saw Matterhorn for about 2 minutes from my hotel room the morning I left. :-) During my day there, I hiked up to Gornergrat (3089m) where it was -2C and heavy snowfall, on July 5! From there I took the train(!) back down.

Posted by malolo ( 838

)

on Apr-20-07 at 12:55:45 PDT

Yes. I've been this far up, in summer of course, along a very good trail. There is a hut, Hornlihutte (elev. 3,260 m/10,695 ft). This photo shows where the hut is located (red dot). At this point the climbers get ready and put on their gear. All climbs must have a guide.

Roger

Posted by bjornmu ( 915

) on Apr-20-07 at 11:58:59 PDT

Roger, nice Zazzle stamps, is that Matterhorn on the $3.85?

I agree, selling 99c lots with PayPal isn't very rewarding, so when I (next year?) finally start selling again I may go for Delcampe and Moneybookers for at least cheap European items.

Posted by malolo ( 838

)

on Apr-20-07 at 11:32:41 PDT

BTW -
Many eBay users who were subjected to the test discovered they could delete the "cookie" and return to the regular search returns. I wonder how many users were included in the test and how many opted out individually. It sure was a hard sell from eBay, but the pages were very confusing with eBay having a different idea of what is important on the page.

Roger

Posted by malolo ( 838

)

on Apr-20-07 at 11:28:45 PDT

Thought this interesting while perusing the UK site. If you remember some of us were subjected to the new search return format and many Discussion threads indicated a total rejection of the offering. Looks like UK planners have gone back to the drawing boards. From UK Announcments Board:

***Testing of new Search Results Pages ends***

11 April, 2007 | 02:07PM BST

We have recently completed a period of testing of new designs for search results pages.
This testing was held over a five-month period, with a small percentage of UK members being shown the new search results page designs. You can read further details of the test here, and read our initial announcement of the testing here.

These new search results pages included larger item photographs, an expandable 'quick view' box to show key item details and additional information on seller feedback, item location, postage methods and payment methods.

We are not planning to make any immediate changes to search results pages based on these tests, but we do anticipate making changes towards the end of 2007. We will announce further details of these changes nearer the time.

Many thanks to the thousands of members who took part in testing these new pages and gave us comments and feedback over the last five months.

Regards,

The eBay.co.uk team

Posted by jeltonk ( 2465

)

on Apr-20-07 at 11:26:30 PDT

antonius-ra

A delayed thank you for the information on the USPO Despatch stamps. It is most appreciated.

Jeltonk

Posted by greenwave4u ( 74

) on Apr-20-07 at 11:05:09 PDT

Colin I echo your thoughts as only a buyer this is the sort of issue that puts me off selling.
Peter

Posted by malolo ( 838

)

on Apr-20-07 at 10:55:15 PDT

Wouldn't it be great if the USPS could come up pwith a set such as this?
http://cgi.ebay.com/ZAZZLESTAMPS-PITNEY-BOWES-2CVP23-2CVP36-COMPLETE-SET-14_W0QQitemZ230119875229QQihZ013QQcategoryZ681QQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

The stamp committee needs a creative/artist photographer. LOL

Roger

Posted by xzephyr ( 981

)

on Apr-20-07 at 10:22:43 PDT

Paypal

After several years selling mainly low priced lots, often for only a pound or two, I find that an insistence on Paypal makes it just not worth my while to sell. Once you have taken away all the eBay fees and the Paypal it is as good as giving my stamps away. My last lot went for 99 cents. I am just selling off my collection, not trying to buy and resell and whilst I have nice collections of old Commonwealth there seems little resale value on eg Canadian booklets.

Oh, when I buy I am happy to use Paypal as I do not pay the fees! I just pity the sellers!

Colin (the disappointed).

Posted by g.1 ( 1110

)

on Apr-20-07 at 08:58:11 PDT

I've been going "Paypal only" for buying and selling, and really like how it has simplified things for me. I have some quibbles with Paypal's service and policies, but it is far more convenient than the alternatives. And no more envelopes from exotic places with the contents mysteriously missing.

David, I've been having fun with that perf gauge software. It can be WAY off or incredibly accurate. I used it to sort perf 14.2 KGV 5d browns from their perf 14.0 brethren. As long as the perfs were all really clean and the postmark was light, it did fine. Any problems and it went totally flaky. I wish there was a way you could click on some of the places it identifies perfs and tell it "that's not a perf".

Posted by cobbie10 ( 6095

)

on Apr-20-07 at 06:59:45 PDT

Linda That ruling came into effect on the Ebay US site about 2 months ago. I think that Bidpay is one of the accpetable methods as people can pay through them using a credit card. Otherwise you are correct, unless you have your own merchant account, virtually the only other way is through Paypal.

Posted by drainbow2 ( 664

) on Apr-20-07 at 05:58:09 PDT

thebriguy I read this stamp page almost every day , I moving to St Louis next mth for a long transplant. Im a little nervious. I wan t to thank you very much for you song (going down the roar felling bad). This made my day. Thank all of you for your help with my US stamp Quistion. Forgive my spelling but im off to therpy Thanks Dwight

Posted by jim_lawler ( 1289

)

on Apr-20-07 at 05:41:05 PDT

Greetings
and an Indiana "Good Morning"
to you all

Jim L.

Posted by claghorn1p ( 410

)

on Apr-20-07 at 03:37:11 PDT

Welcome to the eBay Stamps Chat Board!

It would be greatly appreciated if chat board participants
provide LINKS to pictures
rather than posting them directly to this board.
Here's how to post a LINK. Thanks.

Yellow Boxes

You're new to stamp trading?
You've acquired a stamp collection you want to sell on eBay?
Check out these links:

Chosen links will open in a new window

This is a community creation by eBay Stamp Board users. Thanks to all who contribute!
Click here for board code download.

05/28/05

Posted by malolo ( 838

)

on Apr-19-07 at 20:56:39 PDT

Aloha Brian -
I thought you had gone fishing and fallen through the hole. We don't get much news here, so it was possible I'd have missed it. I'm certain FOX news would have picked up the story since you are a devoted stamp collector!

Good luck on your new adventure. BTW - Nice paragraph spacing in your post.

Roger

Posted by thebriguy1 ( 64

) on Apr-19-07 at 20:35:46 PDT

Hello all!

I'm sorry I've missed out the sweet retreat of philatelic matters for an extended period of time. Life here has taken an interesting turn, with myself joining some long time friends in a business venture. Now I've got TWO jobs, one of which involves an on line data managment company. Nothing like 16 hour days to make one appreciate the quiet perusal of this chat.

I know this will leave a few of you here with a hearty chuckle.

Yes, the guy who took YEARS mastering the concept of HTML bold......is now diddling around with the valuable data streams of others. :o)

On the bright side, one of the other principals I'm involved with, is the same guy thats been feeding me unsearched sacks of 1st bureau issues! After another mentally frazzling day, I'm about to settle into an hour or so of pleasant philatelic rote, cataloging exactly what I've got here. Wheeee!

I see at least one 8c Sherman peaking at me on a little torn corner. Cross your fingers folks, for that is a century plus old lotto ticket. Please, oh please, let me spy a little watermarked "I" or "R" once I get it off its paper and into the tray.

Now, to begin the soakings. Find the tray. Find the lighter fuel. Where are those errant tongs?? (I only own 9 pairs, none of which ever seem to be at hand) I've already loaded up some tasty musical stamping music. Following the tradition I started before disappearing on yet another of my trademark hiatuses, ...I'll share. :o)

This time you get a choice to be determined by your own individual mood.

If you're wanting a softer acoustic folksy sort of thing, click here

If in the moment, something more hauntingly ephemeral and electric will tickle your fancy, well then click here

So pop the top off the watermarking fluid,...breathe deeply,...close your eyes,...and let the music take over.....

Just don't breathe TOO deeply.....

Posted by peetah ( 471

) on Apr-19-07 at 19:43:27 PDT

Thanx David

Posted by dbenson ( 8117

)

on Apr-19-07 at 19:38:24 PDT

Peetah, yours is the 6th. Edition, there is a 7th. and an 8th. wil be issued this year,

see

http://www.jbarefoot.co.uk/stock.htm?menu=46

David B.

Posted by peetah ( 471

) on Apr-19-07 at 19:21:57 PDT

Is there a J. Barefoot Ltd. British Commonwealth Revenue catalogue newer than the 2000 6th edition I have?

Posted by antonius-ra ( 623

)

on Apr-19-07 at 17:24:05 PDT

Jeltonk Yes, that would make it the LO6. If the others are reprints they are most certainly official government ones. I don't know that it would really effect the value much as they were reprinted in low numbers (10,000 each of the two printings). If yours are reprints then they would probably be the second reprinting. I would hazard a guess that the first stamp is a 2nd reprint and the second stamp was an original printing. Others could probably give better advice. I'm just judging on the quality of the print and referencing Scott Specialized.

Posted by antonius-ra ( 623

)

on Apr-19-07 at 17:13:59 PDT

Hmm, I feel honored and a bit confused. I don't even know who this site is but my Italy collection has the first 3 references on the page. Surely they should be able to find some better pages somewhere.

Posted by jeltonk ( 2461

)

on Apr-19-07 at 17:10:11 PDT

Thanks! Actually the pref stamp is perf 12 so does that make it an L06? How about the other 2? Is there an "easy" way to tell whether they are Reprints or not?

Posted by antonius-ra ( 623

)

on Apr-19-07 at 17:04:28 PDT

D2 Thanks for clearing that up. You should know that many of us would take your opinions to "the bank". I
would assume that a few readers were confused by your initial valueing of that lot. I really cannot remember you joking about philately much or wasting to many words in giving sage advice. I would agree with your later assessment that the lot was possibly worth more like $100 U.S. than $20 Aussie bucks (not withstanding the Agery cancel).

jeltonk At first glance they look fine to me. I would check the perfs on the third stamp to see if they are
the issued perf 12. They look more like 11's to me (without counting).

Posted by jeltonk ( 2461

)

on Apr-19-07 at 15:40:05 PDT

Opinion on US USPS Despatch stamps

I am looking for an opinion on these.Real or Fake?

Hopefully I didn't mess up the link!

Info is most appreciated!

Jeltonk

Posted by dbenson ( 8117

)

on Apr-19-07 at 15:19:36 PDT

roger,

the thread avoided the cut,

the reply,

" a reply from me would be pointless ",

David B.

Posted by mini*lindy ( 346

)

on Apr-19-07 at 14:58:15 PDT

mmmm Interesting---- from TODAY, EBAY AUSTRALIA has a new ruling.

Sellers who register after today MUST offer at least one preferred safe payment method of either PayPal or merchant credit card facilities, in their listings. Other additional payment options which are currently permitted onsite are still permitted. \\

Is this the thin edge of the PAYPAL ONLY SITE wedge?

Linda

Posted by malolo ( 837

)

on Apr-19-07 at 13:31:03 PDT

I presume it will be doctored! )'>)
Roger

Posted by dbenson ( 8117

)

on Apr-19-07 at 12:51:54 PDT

roger,

well said on VSC,

I can't wait for the sequel especially the comment about " drivel ", that is if the thread still exists after someone presses the delete button.

David B.

Posted by g.1 ( 1110

)

on Apr-19-07 at 12:27:56 PDT

Peter No, that's a Brighton type 2, with a code 3. Not a bad cancel either, actually, but not nearly as rare -- maybe a $5 item. The rare one, Agery, is on the green stamp immediately beside it. It is a bit hard to read because the cancel is upside down. By the way, I notice since I asked a couple of squared circle collectors if they were the high bidder on this lot, the lot has jumped another $50.

Posted by dbenson ( 8117

)

on Apr-19-07 at 11:48:37 PDT

Lloyd, you asked for further details and they were refused. The comment that the US Treasury has made a statement that 10% of items in mixed lots may contain " illegals " didn't intrigue you and let the matter drop. It must be published somewhere or was just a comment made to further muddy up the situation.

David B.

Posted by peterc8888 ( 311

) on Apr-19-07 at 11:32:38 PDT

G1

Is the cancel on the Four Pence stamp (the tall one) the squared cancel you're talking about?

PC

Posted by lloydstamps ( 561

)

on Apr-19-07 at 11:24:08 PDT

David, disappointed I didn't mention illegals in a press release about a first day cover show??? :)

I thought you and other participants commented sufficiently. It's really not my area of expertise, and I didn't have anything substantive to add.

Posted by iomoon ( 1050

)

on Apr-19-07 at 11:21:23 PDT

Roger

That is hilarious.
Except from Alpine, Texas to London, England is in miles.
Only a 3,400 mile swim and after getting to France do a "slight right" at Bologne-sur-mer to end up in Dover.

Posted by malolo ( 837

)

on Apr-19-07 at 10:43:13 PDT

Paolo -
I was informed this morning that google maps gives travel instructions to a destination. I thought you might be interested in how one proceeds from Amsterdam to New York. Check out instruction #41 -
http://www.google.com/maps

Roger

Posted by g.1 ( 1110

)

on Apr-19-07 at 09:07:05 PDT

David, squared circle cancels of that quality and scarcity have been going for around $300 Australian for the past year or so. The $500 bid just for that cancel is not impossible, if one of us is nearing completion and really needs that one.

Posted by cobbie10 ( 6093

)

on Apr-19-07 at 08:14:59 PDT

It's been like it for a few days now Vinny. Apparently they are "working on it" but who know when it's going to be fixed.

Posted by vinnysf ( 433

) on Apr-19-07 at 07:17:20 PDT

is anyone else having a problem with their "my ebay" page? it lists my items as all having no bids...but when i look at the items i have for sale as a normal ebay shopper it shows that i actually have several bids on items.. this happening to anyone else?

Posted by iomoon ( 1050

)

on Apr-19-07 at 06:48:33 PDT

Good day all.

For US collectors a familiar 5 cent stamp

Posted by jim_lawler ( 1289

)

on Apr-19-07 at 03:29:53 PDT

Greetings
and an Indiana "Good Morning"
to you all

Jim L.

Posted by dbenson ( 8117

)

on Apr-19-07 at 02:48:51 PDT

lloyd, I was utterly surprised and disappointed that you did not make any comments about the so called " US Treasury " remarks about illegals especially since it was about " Embargoed Stamps " and not the jam label illegals that are and have been under discussion. The answer that was given that it could not be discussed as it involves a court matter made it even worse and I am sure that you and almost everyone else knows that the " illegal stamps " and stamps that are under an embargo in the US are entirely different,

David B.

Posted by lloydstamps ( 561

)

on Apr-19-07 at 02:17:32 PDT

Illyefalvi To Head Americover 2007 Exhibition Jury

Kalman V. Illyefalvi of Maryland will be chief judge for Americover 2007, the annual show and convention of the American First Day Cover Society.

He will be joined on the exhibition jury by Ronald E. Lesher of Maryland; Douglas Clark of Massachusetts; William Schultz of Pennsylvania; and Stephen Suffet of New York.

The three-day World Series of Philately show will be held August 17-19 at the Stamford Marriott Hotel & Spa, and will feature a large mostly-FDC bourse, cachetmakers bourse, top exhibits, a banquet, meetings, seminars, youth booth, pre-show area tour and post-show dinner event.

The U.S. Postal Service's new Celebrate! stamp will be issued during the show, too.

Illyefalvi collects and exhibits FDCs as well as postal stationery and postal history of Hungary and South Africa. He was instrumental in establishing the original guidelines for judging first day covers and is an international judge.

Lesher is a specialist in United States revenue stamps and also collects Netherlands and France, among other areas. An international judge, he serves as the U.S. representative to the International Federation of Philately's commission on revenues and is vice president of the commission’s bureau. He is a past president of the American Revenue Association.

Clark collects and exhibits postal history and postal stationery, as well as mobile post office mail. He is a past president of the Mobile Post Office Society and current president of the Postal History Society. He is also an international judge, and exhibits United States postal stationery FDCs.

Schultz specializes in Pennsylvania state postal history, among other collecting areas, and is past president of the Pennsylvania Postal History Society. He has written and edited articles on postal history and was author of the first catalog on Rattlesnake Island Post, which became a runaway best seller.

Suffet collects and exhibits thematics, U.S. postal history, stationery and first day covers. He formed an outstanding collection of the rates and usages of the U.S. Presidential series that has won national grand awards.

Charles J. "Chuck" O'Brien III, a veteran WSP and first day cover exhibitor, won the Grand Award for best exhibit at Americover 2006 for his "Joint Issues with the United States 1959-1994." His "Georgia Bicentennial 1733-1933" picked up the Reserve Grand, as well as the APS Award of Excellence for 1900-1940 Material and the United States Stamp Society Statue of Freedom Award.

The Americover 2007 prospectus and exhibit application may be downloaded from the AFDCS Web site, www.afdcs.org.

Posted by malolo ( 837

)

on Apr-18-07 at 23:42:19 PDT

Can't wait to bid on this!

I might offer to go and collect it in erson and save myself about $5000.

Roger

Posted by mini*lindy ( 346

)

on Apr-18-07 at 23:07:50 PDT

Vinny go to www.photobucket.com and open a free picture host. It's very easy to upload from your computer and just use the top line of HTML text with the ..a href=bblahblah blah.... to make a link here.

Linda

Posted by lavart ( 1343

)

on Apr-18-07 at 23:07:49 PDT

Here are some recently acquired items, with an emphasis on postal cards.

Here is a 2c Grant postal card, uprated with a 2c Aeronautics commem from 1928 and a pair of 1 1/2c imperf Harding stamps from the 4th Bureau series. Lengthy message in German on the reverse.Total postage is 7c, 3c for the international card rate and 4c for airmail from London to Germany (a surcharge rate that was in effect from 1-1-28 to 6-18-32). Postal cards sent via airmail from England or France to Germany (i.e., non-Zepp items) prior to the start of clipper service in 1939 have been very difficult to find.

Here is a 1c Jefferson US postal card, uprated with 1c Franklin and also franked with a 10pf Crown & Eagle stamp from Germany, canceled with the German Marine Schiffspost No. 15, SMS Kaiserine Augusta, while it was in the Philippines during the Spanish American War. The message is datelined Manila. It appears that the send was unsure whether he was going to mail the card via the US postal system or the Marine Schiffspost system, although I don't know whether civilian mail could be sent through the US postal system as of Sept. 7, 1898, when this card was mailed. Full message on back.

Here is another 1c Jefferson postal card uprated with a 1c Franklin stamp, this one mailed from Hoboken NJ on June 12, 1897 to Germany. The reverse shows a nice picture of the Statue of Liberty, making this a nice pioneer post card.

Here is a 2c Franklin postal card uprated with a 6c Teddy Roosevelt and two 1c Washington stamps from the Libery issue, paying the 10c international airmail rate for postal cards (in effect from 6-1-54 to 7-1-61).

Here is a nice cover sent from Toronto to Germany in January of 1897, franked with a 5c Victoria stamp, from the German Consulate. An albino embossed seal of the consulate is on the reverse flap.

Finally, here is a HK Treaty Port cover sent from Canton to the US on Dec. 22, 1902. Of interest is the fact that the Code "B" in the CDS is inverted. I also found the flag receiving cancel from Boston on the reverse interesting. I have watched with interest comments regarding the forthcoming new edition of a US flag cancel catalog, as I have quite a few flag cancels on my collection of covers going from US to Germany. Can anyone shed some light on the flag cancel on this cover?

Posted by dbenson ( 8117

)

on Apr-18-07 at 21:55:10 PDT

Mitch, Yes & No,

we were only jesting and the lot is well worth more than $20, possibly even up to $100 if some of the backs of a few stamps are in the same condition as the front. The item Greg was after is hard to value as it is only wanted by a very few specialists and they are as scarce as the cancel. I don't know what figure Greg would put on but I doubt it would be much more than $75 to $100 although only Greg would know what his limit would be,

David B.

Posted by antonius-ra ( 623

)

on Apr-18-07 at 19:58:12 PDT

D2 & G.I Methinks you guys must be jesting or at least a bit too harsh. Even though I'm nearly flat broke I could come up with a few $20 bills for some lots like that. You guys must be able to put together several lots like that (or why would you say such a thing), anyways sign me up.

Posted by antonius-ra ( 623

)

on Apr-18-07 at 19:50:03 PDT

PC Just noticed that the return email I sent you was returned to me. That stamp is a really poorly centered
#312 not a 479. If you blow the photo up you can see that the perfs match the $1 Farragut next to it.

Vinny Just have fun with it.

Posted by vinnysf ( 433

) on Apr-18-07 at 19:18:37 PDT

i give up on uploading pictures

Posted by vinnysf ( 433

) on Apr-18-07 at 19:18:15 PDT

uggh! why cant the pictures be any larger? is is this chat board or something? because the pictures are huge on my comcast site.

Posted by vinnysf ( 433

) on Apr-18-07 at 19:17:17 PDT

here are more pages from my german collection i've been working on. one page. another page. and anothr page. and another page. this next page should be viewable.

Posted by vinnysf ( 433

) on Apr-18-07 at 18:55:22 PDT

peterc8888 i don't think so either and if they chose the stamps face down and randomly put them in glasslines then how can they possibly know there is at least one mint stamp in each glassline?

they also said that most are relatively fault free. but then later in the ad they say many of the stamps are damaged and of low value

Posted by iomoon ( 1050

)

on Apr-18-07 at 18:54:13 PDT

Peter

I don't think luck has anything to do with it.
The chances are probably zero.

Posted by peterc8888 ( 311

) on Apr-18-07 at 18:41:58 PDT

I want a US Scott#241 but I don't think I will be lucky to get the 241 from 230-241 lot

PC

Posted by stamps12345 ( 223

) on Apr-18-07 at 18:33:11 PDT

NOIP--------Just been reading about that Australian States lot linked below on this page .

It confirms something that many expert philatlist like to stand around and degrade E-BAY and the free wheeling listings by the beginners and want-a-be-stampdealers. But it goes with notice , they all search E-BAY for their speciality and looking for bargins even to the point of looking at stamp mixture lots , hopeing their fellow experts are not looking at the same time .Makes you laugh ....paul

Posted by vinnysf ( 433

) on Apr-18-07 at 18:32:48 PDT

i know those pics were way too small...i'm not very good with putting pics on the web or finding a place to host my pics and for free. i'll try using my service provider. i get photo space with them. try thisone

Posted by stamps12345 ( 223

) on Apr-18-07 at 18:17:29 PDT

VINNY ----Thanks for your posting ,yes it clarify what I thought it was .

On the subject of collecting Germany there are still many opportunities to find material around the U.S. which the German specialised catalog lists but are unknown to the U.S. seller both at auctions and stamp bourses .....paul

Posted by jim_lawler ( 1289

)

on Apr-18-07 at 18:13:14 PDT

Guess it's past when I should have headed to bed.
Contect = context
:8^(

Posted by jim_lawler ( 1289

)

on Apr-18-07 at 18:12:23 PDT

As with most idioms, contect and geography have a great deal to do with meaning.

Posted by peterc8888 ( 311

) on Apr-18-07 at 18:04:29 PDT

I believe bum's rush is an idiom and it is defined as bum's rush.

PC

Posted by stamphick! ( 336

) on Apr-18-07 at 18:03:01 PDT

A bums rush is what a Chicago bartender gives an unfamiliar patron that wanders in without any money.

I had trouble identifying your German stamps from the scans.

Posted by due2cents ( 26

) on Apr-18-07 at 17:57:58 PDT

VinnySF
If you would really like comments on your collection,
why not use something other than the lousy Ipix ebay images so we can see them. There are many Free photo haost that will let you share your "collection" here

Posted by peterc8888 ( 311

) on Apr-18-07 at 17:50:34 PDT

Roger

Thanks for the correction. I find the Agery cancel on the one penny Victoria stamp.

PC

Posted by vinnysf ( 433

) on Apr-18-07 at 17:40:13 PDT

infla-alec i posted pages of my german collection a few times hoping to get a comment or two but nobody noticed since everyone was talking about virginia tech at the time.

Posted by vinnysf ( 433

) on Apr-18-07 at 17:38:38 PDT

stamps12345 when i said "bum-rush" it was meant as sort of a slang term where a couple of people or a single person rushes toward another person in an effort to knock them down to stop them from further doing whatever they were doing. i don't know where the term originated but all my life whenever i hear someone say they've bum-rushed someone it referred to the situaion i just described. i've never heard of it in reference to a homeless person.

Posted by malolo ( 837

)

on Apr-18-07 at 17:19:26 PDT

Aloha Peter -
You misread G1's post. The stamp was cancelled at "Agery". I use Google Earth all the time now and find it a fascinating tool. If you haven't downloaded it yet, do so in the near future. Today Agery is still a road junction next to a large pond of water!

Roger

Posted by peterc8888 ( 311

) on Apr-18-07 at 17:11:14 PDT

G1

What is an Agency cancel?

PC

Posted by iomoon ( 1050

)

on Apr-18-07 at 14:57:36 PDT

nomad

Thanks, it has been threatening for weeks.
Since before Peter went to Colombia.

Posted by dbenson ( 8117

)

on Apr-18-07 at 14:05:55 PDT

G1, I was just checking the perfs. on a Japanese Koban 5r. which have to be divided between three different machines which were used.

perf. 9-10 large holes
perf. 9-11 small holes
perf. 8-10 large holes

there were also 12-12 1/2 & 11.

It came out as 9.726 at top, 9.806 at bottom, 8.572 at left & it could not calculate the right side as the pins are not aligned correctly. I make it about 9.65.

They are the large holes and it would be classified as 8-10 large holes. The problem is does the catalogue listing for 9-10 include 8.572.

Sometime in the future when electronic perf. measuring is the norm then that quetion will be answered,

David B.

Posted by nomad55 ( 881

)

on Apr-18-07 at 14:02:39 PDT

IO - volcano alert

http://www.cnn.com/2007/WORLD/americas/04/18/columbia.volcano.ap/index.html

Posted by dbenson ( 8117

)

on Apr-18-07 at 13:40:03 PDT

G1,

try this for size,

http://www.buxsoft.com/download_en.htm

David B.

Posted by dbenson ( 8117

)

on Apr-18-07 at 13:38:31 PDT

G1, more accurate, that is the problem as they show results above and beyond all catalogues and virtually all references. It put's perfs. in a new perspective. It does have some teething problems (pun intended) as they have problems with very rough & missing perfs and either the wrong result is shown or will not show result.

David B.

Posted by g.1 ( 1110

)

on Apr-18-07 at 13:31:10 PDT

Are any electronic perf gauges or computer programs as accurate as the gauges mentioned on that web page?

Posted by g.1 ( 1110

)

on Apr-18-07 at 12:40:38 PDT

Whichever is worth the least.

I think you're wrong, by the way. There's a rare item in a lot that is otherwise nearly worthless. Six bidders have driven the price skywards. I think we can assume that at least two of the six bidders have noticed the rare item. (But I've checked with my squared circle collecting buddies and none of them had spotted it.)

Posted by dbenson ( 8117

)

on Apr-18-07 at 12:22:06 PDT

G1, is that US, Canadian or Australian $20,

David B.

Posted by g.1 ( 1110

)

on Apr-18-07 at 12:14:17 PDT

You think? The rest of the lot is worth maybe $20.

Posted by dbenson ( 8117

)

on Apr-18-07 at 11:55:04 PDT

G1, I doubt if the bidders had noticed it, wonder what they see in the lot, virtually all the better stamps are in deplorable condition,

David B.

Posted by g.1 ( 1110

)

on Apr-18-07 at 11:50:31 PDT

David The Agery cancel. I believe that there are only three known strikes of that guy, so the one in that lot makes four. And it is a beauty.

Posted by dbenson ( 8117

)

on Apr-18-07 at 11:34:01 PDT

G1,

I would get a shock too if I had a bid for over $500 on that lot of Australian States, what was in it that you wanted, I cant see much there,

David B.

Posted by jaywild ( 933

)

on Apr-18-07 at 11:10:32 PDT

claghorn… Also, this is a cheap 20th Century reproduction.

Jim

Posted by infla-alec ( 525

)

on Apr-18-07 at 11:10:22 PDT

I've been busy these past few days so have been absent from my post.

Mitch I agree this is not the place to debate the rights and wrongs of the recent shooting tragedy. Suffice to say I think condolences go all those with friends or families who were involved.

Peter C I'd only be wary of making any kind of payment to anyone no matter wether they hold a Paypal account or not if I didn't instinctively feel the seller was trustworthy. I don't know or understand all Paypal's rules that cover buyers getting ripped off so sometimes you just have to make the call yourself.

AJ Gory Firstly welcome to the ebay stamp board. I have to confess I don't know the answer to your question. My best guess is though that the dot was printed onto the stationery envelope to act as a counting mark of some sort. By that I mean for example if the cards came in batches of 100 then every 10th one could have printed with the counting dot. Or during a printing run every 1000th or 10,000th had the dot.
Like I say that is just a guess but hopefully someone here will be able to tell you more for sure.
Bear in mind this is more a message board and it can take several hours for a reply to be forthcoming. People come and go at various times from all over the world.
If no one does reply please don't be afraid to post your question again. Sometimes if the going here gets hectic questions can be overlooked.

Vinny I hope you continue to collect Germany and maybe one day will decide to specialize in any one of the hundreds of different aspects collecting Germany has to offer. Not being able to read German doesn't mean there is no help available. There is and by asking here you are sure to get most of the help you may need.

Posted by jaywild ( 933

)

on Apr-18-07 at 10:50:06 PDT

NOIP… I see only “bum’s” comes through, weirdly. Type in bum’s rush in the search panel on the dictionary.com page for a definition.

Jim

Posted by jaywild ( 933

)

on Apr-18-07 at 10:46:50 PDT

NOIP… Bum’s rush.

Jim

Posted by jimbo ( 393

)

on Apr-18-07 at 10:17:10 PDT

Ooops,

Link for Perf Gauge Project.

jimbo

Posted by g.1 ( 1110

)

on Apr-18-07 at 10:14:32 PDT

I bet the seller of this item is happily scratching his or her head. I wonder how much higher it will go? I notice the high bidder has entered another, even higher bid. (I had dreams of picking the item off cheaply -- tooooo bad!)

Posted by jimbo ( 393

)

on Apr-18-07 at 10:13:51 PDT

trio19612003,
Here is a link which may be of help: How to Use a Perforation Gauge by Kathleen Wunderly at askphil.org. BTW the whole site has loads of information for collectors. I've read this and I'm not sure that it will be of much help so I'll try to explain it my way.

The typical low-end perforation gauge (example with instructions here) consists of lines of evenly-spaced black dots against a white surface. There is generally a straight line connecting the dots. Its use is as follows: the stamp is picked up with the tongs (always much better than just using your fingers) and then the perforated edge is moved back and forth along the various perforation lines on the gauge until the black holes match the perforation holes. One then reads the gauge number associated with the line. Generally, as you move the stamp along the gauge the holes will become more and more aligned which indicates that you are getting near to the right gauge.

Unfortunately, stamp perforators don't always fit the gauges accurately (no one told the perforator manufacturers that the holes had to be precisely spaced in whole or half numbers in 2 cm as the inventors of the perforation convention established) Generally, the simple gauge is good enough for most stamps. Skillful use will permit you to interpolate to probably 1/4 perforation.

More precise measurements require gauges such as the ones discussed and illustrated in Perf Gauge Project. Here's another article on using such gauges: Using Perforation Gauges.

jimbo

Posted by lou4cards ( 408

) on Apr-18-07 at 07:43:53 PDT

A bum's rush in the area where I live comes from gangs of thugs rushing a bum all at once so he does not know who to defend from first. Some thugs call this sport and do it for fun or initation into a gang.

In PA many institutions and sporting events have a NO GUN'S policy, even for those with gun permits. Our local library, and hospital have a NO GUN'S policy except for law enforcement. Where I work has a NO GUN'S policy on their properity. I have a gun permit to carry. Where I work there is a NO GUN'S policy. I have a arrangement that I can lock it in a small gun safe securly attached inside of my trunk.

There are to many carring guns legal or illegaly who have no idea how to shoot other than pull the triger.

The tales of heroes at this tragedy are starting to come out slowly.

Posted by trio19612003 ( 303

)

on Apr-18-07 at 07:25:17 PDT

hi, i am hoping some one can help me with a problem reading perf gauges. i guess im stupid, but i cant seem to get it right. i am trying to use a metal , merit gauge. i think my problem is that i cant seem to figure out excatly how to line up gauge with the stamp. any help would be greatly appreciated!
thanks
bill

Posted by philaweb ( 209

)

on Apr-18-07 at 06:52:24 PDT

W.W.11 ?!!

Posted by iomoon ( 1050

)

on Apr-18-07 at 06:39:08 PDT

Good day all.

Here is another 5 s

Posted by claghorn1p ( 410

)

on Apr-18-07 at 06:26:20 PDT

Welcome to the eBay Stamps Chat Board!

It would be greatly appreciated if chat board participants
provide LINKS to pictures
rather than posting them directly to this board.
Here's how to post a LINK. Thanks.

Yellow Boxes

You're new to stamp trading?
You've acquired a stamp collection you want to sell on eBay?
Check out these links:

Chosen links will open in a new window

This is a community creation by eBay Stamp Board users. Thanks to all who contribute!
Click here for board code download.

05/28/05

Posted by jim_lawler ( 1289

)

on Apr-18-07 at 05:13:57 PDT

Greetings
and an Indiana "Good Morning"
to you all

Paul
A "bum's rush" is what you give someone to get rid of then as if they were an unemployed, homeless begger who does not want to work, but want's you to provide for their needs when you don't want them around.

Jim L.

Posted by dbenson ( 8117

)

on Apr-18-07 at 04:59:48 PDT

deh,

I am sending you the email address of the person who has been doing a census of NSW covers of that period.

I wonder if the sender was a saddler seeing it was from Tenterfield,

David B.

Posted by deh3 ( 1539

)

on Apr-18-07 at 04:46:46 PDT

Any New South Wales experts?

Is there a census of the known NSW registration stamps on cover to foreign destinations, specifically to Canada:

http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t119/ik-postalhistory2/065T0716.jpg

It is the second pre-UPU registered cover between Canada and a country other than the US and UK I'm going to receive shortly (the first is from Germany). Apparently, it was initially franked by the 6d diadem vertical pair, and then, on reverse, marked deficient 6d registration, 5d postage, so it was returned to sender, who then applied the 6d registered stamp, 2d pair, and a 1d (removed). I assume it is paying the 11d postage (via Southampton) + 1s for registration; the 11d rate first came into affect between 1857 and 1863.
According "The Postal History of New South Wales, 1788-1901" (p. 231, White, 1988), "Registration fees may be paid by means of ordinary stamps when the fee exceeds 1/- but not otherwise". However, this cover seems to be contrary to regulations. Also, this cover represents the first postage due registered cover to Canada by at least 60 years.

Any help would be appreciated

Posted by stamps12345 ( 223

) on Apr-18-07 at 04:29:04 PDT

VINNY -----What is a bum-rush ,is that what the Iranians did when they sent children toward the Iraq guns or is it what the Japanese soliders did in W.W.11. Never heard that term before .

JIM ----I can't find anything on the internet about any nut case attacking a NRA instructor on the shooting range ,I really don't think those warped minds attend pistol shoots .But i did find that guns are never the answer because the guns are not aviavible when most needed .

NOIP------Its time that the educators start thinking we live in a different world after 911 and that surviual is a skill that needs to be taught .The old professor knew what to do and I salute him for that ,but jumping out of windows and getting hurt and running and screeming is stupid .Thinking the SWAT teams and Rambo types coming 15 or 20 mintues late after its all over for the news cameras is not the answer .Self-defense training is now a necessity ,with all the warped minds and nut jobs running around today ......My policy strike first, strike hard and strike often .....Interesting note over the past 30 years ,every resturant,church or school ,or social event I attended I had my fighting skills with me and I don't think that is the case for people who own guns .....paul

Posted by vinnysf ( 433

) on Apr-18-07 at 03:36:50 PDT

thanks dbenson and jaywild...most appreciated!

Posted by dbenson ( 8117

)

on Apr-18-07 at 01:26:17 PDT

Vinny, you will find the Stuttgart City locals (Stadtpost) on this site,

http://klaseboe.club.fr/gerlo9.htm

David B.

Posted by jaywild ( 933

)

on Apr-18-07 at 00:43:20 PDT

vinnysf… Stuttgart is currently in the German state of Baden-Württemburg, so perhaps one of those two states.

peterc8888… I will also buy the occasional cover that neatly illustrates a particular rate, that isn’t a solo use. That cover illustrates first class postage (4¢) certified service (20¢) and return receipt requested (10¢). I was able to determine it was from the early sixties based solely on the rates—when I asked the seller confirmed it was postmarked 1961.

Jim

Posted by dbenson ( 8117

)

on Apr-18-07 at 00:40:12 PDT

vinny, It is a local, Stuttgart is in Wurttemberg,

David B.

Posted by vinnysf ( 433

) on Apr-18-07 at 00:04:54 PDT

i'm trying to figure out which german state this stamp comes from. i can barely make out the lettering since that yellow is so bright! i can't find it in the scott catalog and i don't have an english speaking michel catalog yet. thanks in advance for any help!

Posted by aj-gory ( 171

) on Apr-17-07 at 23:48:04 PDT

Can anyone enlighten me re Ebay CANADA postal stationery Item, number: 200100706782
which refers to a "counting dot". Description of item Canada #W3 Postal Wrapper with Counting Dot" What is a counting dot?

Posted by claghorn1p ( 410

)

on Apr-17-07 at 22:04:37 PDT

PostalHysteria interesting Vertical Roll Coil Plate Block

Posted by sheryll*net ( 91

)

on Apr-17-07 at 21:35:52 PDT

Here is a 5 shilling New Hebrides stamp from the British 1911 Condominium series, which was recess printed at De La Rue in London. The doubling led me to believe it to be a slurred print. Is that the right word for it?

S2

Posted by vinnysf ( 433

) on Apr-17-07 at 20:34:39 PDT

i vote yes to antonius vote.
mini lindy told me to post a scan of a stamp. so heres some stamps from my germany collection. its still kinda sparse i know but i'm adding to it all the time. heres one page out ofmy german collection.
and another page

Posted by antonius-ra ( 623

)

on Apr-17-07 at 20:12:44 PDT

I vote that the whole topic be dropped. It was a horrible tragedy but this is not the place to deal with it. Nothing good can come from it and I doubt anything will, here or in any other forum.

Posted by jim_lawler ( 1289

)

on Apr-17-07 at 19:36:04 PDT

Hey guys,

Let's not forget that the Holocaust survivor did use a method that points to the success or failure of Paul’s suggested method. He barred the door with his body until he died from the bullets shot through the door. What a horrible, yet honorable way to die in an attempt to protect others. We will never know the good he did in this world.

PLEASE, now let’s drop the subjects of "what might have been" and focus on what can be done now for the survivors and their families.

Jim L.

Posted by abt1950 ( 224

)

on Apr-17-07 at 19:18:32 PDT

Good night to all and to all sweet dreams of changing exchange rates (the dollar/pound ration is now 2/1), German stamps, and comfort to all those affected by yesterday's shooting. Anne

Posted by vinnysf ( 433

) on Apr-17-07 at 18:19:36 PDT

oops okay, i seem to have forgotten the html code for bold lettering. lol sorry bout that

Posted by vinnysf ( 433

) on Apr-17-07 at 18:18:55 PDT

iomoon i agree with you anyone who bum-rushes the gunman would get shot for sure but my point was this: why not try to stop the guy before he picks off everyone in the room. sure you might get shot in the process but he's gonna shoot you anyway so what do you have to lose?

stamps123456 i agree with you too but i don't think martial arts training would have much of an effect on someone with a gun. but its your point of trying to take the guy down

Posted by abt1950 ( 224

)

on Apr-17-07 at 16:38:59 PDT

I echo Jim W-S's thoughts.

David: What a horrible thing to see this happen at a place you love.

Anne

Posted by iomoon ( 1050

)

on Apr-17-07 at 16:11:01 PDT

Paul, Vinny

Please give it a rest.
In addition to being a Professor, some of you know I am also a certified NRA pistol instructor.
An unarmed martial arts black belt would be dead in seconds when confronting a determined and "coldly efficient" pistol bearer unless they were very lucky.

David....stamphick

I feel for you my friend.
On hearing of shooting on East coast University, my first thoughts were for my daughter, then "relief" that it was Virginia rather than Pennsylvania.

On a more upscale note, got this in yesterdays mail.

Posted by rclwa ( 962

) on Apr-17-07 at 15:23:23 PDT

My computer still on the fritz and I'm posting from the public library. First time I've seen the board in days and no time now to read the whole thing, nor way to save it. (The library computers no longer take floppies.) Just wanted to let you know why I haven't been around. Uncooperative machines are SO tiresome!

I did make it to the annual Moses Lake stamp event on Saturday, most enjoyable as usual. Attendance was down a bit, partly due to various medical situations of regulars. Hope it picks up again next year.

Hope I'm back soon. Lots of spring yard work beckons, also. Just taking things a day at a time.

Bob in WA

Posted by stamps12345 ( 223

) on Apr-17-07 at 15:09:05 PDT

VINNY ---Thanks you took the time to read what I said .

Im totally against any weapon or gun brought on any school campus .But im 100% certain that a student or teacher with the years of training and experience in fighting arts could of shorten the rampage of the guy with a gun .

Posted by peterc8888 ( 310

) on Apr-17-07 at 13:44:05 PDT

Are there some countries which I should not pay by Paypal even sellers are accepting Paypal?

PC

Posted by peterc8888 ( 310

) on Apr-17-07 at 13:41:49 PDT

Jim(jaywild)

I notice that you have won this? I skipped this kind of covers since it has the 4 cents.

PC

Posted by vinnysf ( 431

) on Apr-17-07 at 13:00:49 PDT

i don't understand how the gunman was able to shoot that many people in that classroom...he had a 9mm, right? it would take a little time to shoot 15 people one by one..someone could've bum-rushed him during that time to help minimize the damage. thats what i would've done. i mean if its my time to go, then so be it. but i certainly wouldn't go down without a fight.

Posted by malolo ( 837

)

on Apr-17-07 at 12:46:02 PDT

jaywild - I see the smily face.

NOIP (you don't have to read this!)-
Self defense. I'm certain policy makers have determined that, if something strange starts happening on a commercial aircraft, people aboard will use their survival senses and do "whatever" to regain control of a plane. On the ground we are trying to reduce the chances of anything dangerous getting into the plane. IMHO we don't do much in our society to reduces chances of people doing harm to others through the use of deadly weapons. One can't believe the number of weapons sold on the internet which have been designed to be unrecognizable as weapons. What do buyers intend to do with these weapons? They are not the self-defense weapons one would expect to find in a "lady's purse". They are weapons designed to be hidden during searches, why do some feel the need to carry artfully concealed weapons which can only be used in aggressive situations, not defense? I have no answers, but some of the items we are trained to look for cause one to realize there are many warped minds out there, and they look like US.

Roger

Posted by stamphick! ( 336

) on Apr-17-07 at 12:45:53 PDT

I'm sitting here in my Virginia Tech tee shirt and cap with tears running down my face after watching the memorial service on TV. I grew up in Blacksburg, VA, lived there for over 10 years, and from the age of 8 planned to go to Tech (VPI then). I learned to shoot at the school rifle range, swim in the school pool and spent a lot of time on campus since my parents both worked there.

Yesterday was Holocaust Remembrance Day. A holocaust survivor that was a professor at Virginia Tech was one of the first shot and killed during the rampage yesterday. How ironic to have survived the holocaust and then be killed in a sleepy little town in SW Virginia.

Virginia may be the easiest state in the US to obtain a CCW permit. Recently there was a bill introduced in the VA legislature to allow students on state university campuses to obtain permits, but of course it was defeated.

One thing for us parents to realize is that since 1966 there have only been fatal shootings on only 9 campuses, and one of those only involved family members. College campuses are still some of the safest places for kids to be.

Posted by vinnysf ( 431

) on Apr-17-07 at 12:16:11 PDT

heres another scan of my germany collection.

Posted by vinnysf ( 431

) on Apr-17-07 at 12:13:51 PDT

i don't think my post showed up. let me try again. heres a scan of my germany collection.

Posted by dbenson ( 8110

)

on Apr-17-07 at 12:08:37 PDT

driveby,

thanks very much, the site answered the query perfectly and the result will be of immense help to me,

David B.

Posted by abt1950 ( 224

)

on Apr-17-07 at 10:11:06 PDT

Afternoon/morning/evening from a still-flooded NJ. Our area is drying, but some areas are still underwater. Never underestimate the power of Mama Nature.

Jim L: Thanks for the kind thoughts. What happened in Virginia sends shudders through everyone, not just people connected with colleges. I think of my son, who's at Rutgers, and worry that it could have been his campus. My heart goes out to the families and friends of the students who were killed.

Frankly, I find discussions of whether or not other students should have been armed or had martial arts training in slightly bad taste at the moment.

Anne, off to grade papers, write exams, and dream of playing with my stamps.

Posted by due2cents ( 26

) on Apr-17-07 at 10:07:49 PDT

Any sellers here going to ad videos to their listings.
I have been trying to think out the ways Stamps might be sold with the help of videos.
The items i looked at that have videos linked to them were more interesting than just normal listings.

Posted by iomoon ( 1050

)

on Apr-17-07 at 10:00:22 PDT

Seeing as I work at a university, lets get this straight.
It is illegal to carry a concealed firearm on school property in Texas (and Virginia) even if you have a CCW permit.
Students living on campus who desire to have their guns with them must leave them with the UPD where they are kept under lock and key until the student requests them for usage in hunting or shooting events away from the campus or on campus if the school has its own range.

Posted by soggy333 ( 55

) on Apr-17-07 at 09:08:50 PDT

Paul is right.
Even a couple of students with permits to carry concealed would have stopped this. In many of the places where I walk around the only reason muggings do not happen as often as they might is that the punks never know what you might be carrying. They hit old old ladies instead and Ivy league students who rarely fight back. More 86 year old ladies should carry 32's in the pocket and aim for the butt when they run. They really hate that.Sorry, not stamp related.

Posted by drive_by_post ( 0 ) on Apr-17-07 at 07:40:56 PDT

D. Benson:
See: How Much Is That?> site.
There is a link for pound/dollar exchange rates, as well as a bunch of other useful information.
dbp

Posted by lluehhhb ( 262

) on Apr-17-07 at 06:53:24 PDT

a real "mail delayed" instructional mark from Canada here. Looks nice to me.

Posted by postalhysteria ( 3526

)

on Apr-17-07 at 06:21:05 PDT

Sheesh, check out his other listings. Can a person really be this overall ignorant of a subject he is trying to sell?

Posted by postalhysteria ( 3526

)

on Apr-17-07 at 06:13:06 PDT

Idiot seller-du-jour

Posted by iomoon ( 1050

)

on Apr-17-07 at 05:48:14 PDT

Good day all.

Here is a 5 shillings.

Posted by 22028 ( 1596

)

on Apr-17-07 at 05:38:16 PDT

Paul, and others mentioned it would have been stopped easily if every individual student would have been armed. Brilliant Ideas ;-(

Posted by jim_lawler ( 1288

)

on Apr-17-07 at 05:32:05 PDT

Greetings
and an Indiana "Good Morning"
to you all

Jim L.

Posted by breffington ( 367

) on Apr-17-07 at 05:15:30 PDT

Paul, I'm confused how martial arts training would have stopped the shooting at Virginia Tech. Why wouldn't the shooter have shot a marital arts expert before he could reach him? From the published accounts this guy was very steady under pressure and coldly efficent. Frank

Posted by stamps12345 ( 223

) on Apr-17-07 at 04:50:47 PDT

HORROR SHOW at Virginia Tech.--------Sorry to hear the events of the past day......but .......any student from the class I attend would of ended that event very quickly .We need colleges to teach Mixed Martial Arts class especially classes of Muay-Thai.We don't need all the Rambo types who run around in front of the press corps after the event is over ....sad ......a good student would of ended the event in minutes .....Vinny ,he sould of had a philatelic S-O-N cancel or had been heavy canceled ,just to keep this stamp related .

Posted by mini*lindy ( 346

)

on Apr-17-07 at 01:40:26 PDT

Vinny feel free to post a stamp scan link or make a philatelic comment any time.....

JayJim I always see your smiley face as a face, every time you post it.

L.

Posted by vinnysf ( 431

) on Apr-16-07 at 22:56:31 PDT

thought we were supposed to be talkin about stamps here :)

Posted by jaywild ( 932

)

on Apr-16-07 at 22:23:17 PDT

Matt & Bill… I found an explanation of the saw.

Jim

Posted by keleofa ( 3414

)

on Apr-16-07 at 22:18:43 PDT

Jim,

The retracting table saw is real. It retracts the blade when a circuit is made -- electricity flows through the blade and meat is a better conductor than wood. It will be required soon at workplaces (no offense to lawyers).

Matt in Arizona

Posted by claghorn1p ( 410

)

on Apr-16-07 at 22:06:49 PDT

Welcome to the eBay Stamps Chat Board!

It would be greatly appreciated if chat board participants
provide LINKS to pictures
rather than posting them directly to this board.
Here's how to post a LINK. Thanks.

Yellow Boxes

You're new to stamp trading?
You've acquired a stamp collection you want to sell on eBay?
Check out these links:

Chosen links will open in a new window

This is a community creation by eBay Stamp Board users. Thanks to all who contribute!
Click here for board code download.

05/28/05

Posted by wrd3 ( 99

) on Apr-16-07 at 21:51:46 PDT

jaywild as far as I can tell it isn't on the snopes website. But I believe it is real. My next door neighbor is very much into woodworking. He told me about the saw sometime late last year while we were discussing workshop equipment. He had done some research into the saw, and certainly believes it is real.

Bill D.

Posted by dbenson ( 8110

)

on Apr-16-07 at 20:50:34 PDT

Interesting comment on Virtual Stamp Chat,

It has just been stated by a usually reliable source that

" The United States Treasury Department standard for mixtures is that they must contain no more than ten percent illegal stamps. "

Wonder what they say is the percentage for illegal coins or banknotes.

David B.

Posted by jaywild ( 932

)

on Apr-16-07 at 20:43:54 PDT

Bill D… Is this real? It’s a saw that retracts instantly on contact with skin, here represented by a hotdog. I couldn’t find it on Snopes.

Jim

Posted by jim_lawler ( 1288

)

on Apr-16-07 at 20:31:47 PDT

Anne
Glad to hear that you're doing well. You, as will all college students, profs and staff, will be in my thoughts and prayers for the next several days. I suspect the tragedy in VA will affect most colleges.

On a different note, I got a different spoof email today than I've gotten before. The email indicated a bid had been canceled on one of my lots and provided a link to check out the reasons. It just didn't feel right, so I did not take the bait. Forwarded it to eBay and got confirmation that it had not come from eBay. I'm glad I checked.

Jim L.

Posted by abt1950 ( 224

)

on Apr-16-07 at 20:03:30 PDT

Whether those pictures are what they claim to be or not, the critters in them are still impressive and, when you think about it, almost alien. They're certainly far removed from homo sapiens on the tree of life.

Good night to all and to all sweet dreams of Chinese stamp sites, alligator fritters, and web browsers that work. Anne

Posted by jimbo ( 393

)

on Apr-16-07 at 20:01:20 PDT

Thanks for that reference, Bill D. At least the pictures are real wherever they were taken.

Jim D., I've been taken in so many times, it doesn't bother me at all.

jimbo

Posted by jaywild ( 932

)

on Apr-16-07 at 19:37:42 PDT

Well, now I don’t feel so bad being taken in by that dog picture.

Jim

Posted by wrd3 ( 99

) on Apr-16-07 at 19:19:36 PDT

jimbo Florida Power & Light may have a dangerous job, but not that dangerous. See here. The rattlesnakes are Western Diamondbacks, that photo was taken in California.

Bill D.

Posted by jeterisapimp ( 29

) on Apr-16-07 at 19:01:09 PDT

yo was sup guy s and gals

Posted by abt1950 ( 224

)

on Apr-16-07 at 18:43:21 PDT

dr searchphd: Welcome to the stamp chat board. There may be someone here who knows of your friend. Keep checking back, because people come and go all day. Good luck!

Jimbo: I think I'll pass on the construction job, thank you. As for the view of Sydney Harbour, amazing but not a good thing for directly after dinner.

Anne

Posted by jimbo ( 393

)

on Apr-16-07 at 17:43:07 PDT

NOIP,
My Firefox works OK most of the time. All I have to do is [Ctrl][+] to get the chat board to legible size. The normal type eBay/LiveWorld has defined is smaller than anyone else's - it could be related to my choice of screen resolution (1152 x 864).

My MSIE seems to do all the right things - even the type is a little large. As a general rule, I only use it when I see something I know has been 'Gatesed up!

Some items which are good for a change:

Want a construction job? We don't run into these every day!

Interactive Panorama of Sydney Harbour. This may turn out to be too much work for your browser when you start to move it too fast.

The Whole World from the Top of the World! Pan around the world in 30 seconds!

jimbo

Posted by paperhistory ( 1976

)

on Apr-16-07 at 17:42:13 PDT

Jim: I went through the contact process, typed the message, and then I went to send it, it blocked the message, with a note that ebay sometimes blocks messages when they are between users who don't have an open transaction. New "improvement" I guess.

Posted by stamphick! ( 336

) on Apr-16-07 at 17:25:06 PDT

Internet explorer does not support XHTML, most other browsers do to some extent. I suppose this discussion would be more appropriate elsewhere.

Posted by dr.searchphd ( 0 ) on Apr-16-07 at 17:19:47 PDT

ALL;

I hope im a dodo at finding a friend, ken greenberg, aka mrstamps or collectors gallery in so cal. last i talked with him he had some health challenges. i found his site not up and running? if any others happen to know if hes ok or not, i would be most thankful for the news. (i fear the worst) he was a great mentor on match and medicine along with other areas of back-of-book a terrific teacher and friend (who called me kid even at 50)

Posted by jaywild ( 932

)

on Apr-16-07 at 17:02:25 PDT

stamphick… Internet Explorer is “non standard-compliant” only in the sense regarding html, yet the internet is moving away from html and toward xhtml. The features of IE go beyond html, and yes, for those people who use browsers that only read html then it would be unwise to use fonts such as wingdings on a webpage, otherwise not everyone would read it properly. The whole point of xhtml was to expand the usefulness of html, including (but certainly not limited to) new fonts. Also, the idea was to clear up some dead wood in html. But the changes wrought in xhtml are not always going to fit into a system that recognizes only html. It’s sort of like trying to figure out how to install a starter motor on a Model T.

Jim

Posted by iomoon ( 1050

)

on Apr-16-07 at 16:42:54 PDT

Easier to use old fashioned html smilers than wingdings.

:-) should work.

D2

This site might answer your question.

Posted by jaywild ( 932

)

on Apr-16-07 at 16:35:59 PDT

NOIP… I removed all my posts that might have caused weird sized fonts. Strangely, they disappeared, although the shill-bidding rant is still on the board. Maybe eBay hasn’t finished reading it.

stamphick… If you can’t see that, then I give up!

Jim

Posted by stamphick! ( 336

) on Apr-16-07 at 16:32:50 PDT

Actually it is suggesting that you not use wingdings since only folks with non standard-compliant browsers such as IE can interpret them properly. If you use a smiley as a means to show the sense of a post and the reader doesn't see the smiley misunderstanding can result.

Posted by jaywild ( 932

)

on Apr-16-07 at 16:19:15 PDT

stamphick… Well, this illustrates what I said earlier about the differences in browsers. I don’t entirely understand that page you linked to, but if it’s suggesting that I learn a new system of writing html just so everyone can read it properly I’m not sure I’m up to it. I also don’t know what you’re referring to by disagreement—there’ve been so many.

J (smiley face here.)

Jim

Posted by jaywild ( 932

)

on Apr-16-07 at 16:09:00 PDT

stamphick… I think your browser doesn’t read “wingdings” font. I’ve often wondered how that showed up. You would see a smiley face with IE 7.

Roger… Do you see a “J” or a smiley face? (Answer when you get off work, of course…)

Jim

Posted by stamphick! ( 336

) on Apr-16-07 at 16:08:52 PDT

jaywild...This page may be of interest to you. It also may explain the source of a small disagreement you and I had some time ago.

Posted by stamphick! ( 336

) on Apr-16-07 at 16:05:10 PDT

Perhaps what you wanted to know was that the lone "J" is a different font than the rest.

Posted by keleofa ( 3414

)

on Apr-16-07 at 16:00:11 PDT

Jim,

Using IE7 I see a blank line, next line a smiley face, then another blank line, then 'Jim'

Font is (now) normal size (ie smaller than before the change)

Matt in Arizona

Posted by stamphick! ( 336

) on Apr-16-07 at 15:59:51 PDT

line bread J line break Jim

Posted by jaywild ( 932

)

on Apr-16-07 at 15:54:58 PDT

Just curious… What does everyone see following this line?

Jim

Posted by jaywild ( 932

)

on Apr-16-07 at 15:53:03 PDT

David and Peter… With my IE 7 I have to scroll sideways if I enlarge the text.

Jim

Posted by jaywild ( 932

)

on Apr-16-07 at 15:49:20 PDT

Roger… Unfortunately in this case I think the problem is not that everything is under Microsoft’s thumb. Many on the board use alternatives, and the difficulty as I see it is that the different systems and browsers don’t interface properly. It’s like me trying to understand someone speaking English with an Irish accent—I can figure out about a third of what’s being said.

(This is not said to defend Microsoft. All one has to do is look at the record of them trying to crush Netscape rather than develop a better browser and thus lure business with a better product. Evil is too mild a word!! But when in Rome...)

Jim

Posted by greenwave4u ( 74

) on Apr-16-07 at 15:48:39 PDT

That's interesting mine is reformatting into the same window size, without needing to scroll sideways???Doh!

Posted by stamphick! ( 336

) on Apr-16-07 at 15:46:35 PDT

greenwave4u...On my computer when using Windows XP and IE7 when I increase the size of the text using the scrollwheel it also widens the page so that I have to scroll horizontally to read a line

Posted by greenwave4u ( 74

) on Apr-16-07 at 15:39:58 PDT

Stamphick Actually IE7 does exactly the same as you describe. Just cntrl + scrollwheel.

Posted by jaywild ( 932

)

on Apr-16-07 at 15:34:32 PDT

NOIP… Alas, the problem is eBay using “xhtml” (latest iteration of html) on the board, which Firefox etc. does not process. Thus if you do a “big” then a “p” to start a new paragraph, xhtml will dispense with the “big” for the new paragraph. Regular html won’t, so if you correct your posts for xhtml processing, i.e. inserting “big” in brackets every time you start a new paragraph, they will show up distorted and gigantic on a browser that reads only regular html.

Ebay seems to have leapt (as usual) into making changes that only screwed things up immeasurably.

This post should be teeny-tiny to everyone whose browser reads xhtml, the links even tinier, to the point of irrelevancy, I fear.

Jim

Posted by stamphick! ( 336

) on Apr-16-07 at 15:29:19 PDT

One of the many great features of Firefox is that font size on each site can be adjusted in a fraction of a second using the scroll wheel on the mouse. When one adjusts the font size the widow is reformatted so that text still fits the existing window so that no horizontal scrolling is required.

Posted by greenwave4u ( 74

) on Apr-16-07 at 15:19:42 PDT

Jim Tiny fonts using IE7
Peter

Posted by malolo ( 837

)

on Apr-16-07 at 15:08:10 PDT

Aloha -
Just for the record.
I use Safari and Jim's text is equivelant of increasing browser font size +1. His links are all board default size.

I gues shtis is what happens when a manufacturer produces browsers that are not only incompatible with ither manufacuteres, but with its own other products. I've heard at work that users of our TSA leaning site can't use IE 7 becasue the site is designed for IE 6! Those of us using other browsers can only go onto the internet site at work using the optimized TSA computers.

I can't wait for the whole internet to be the un-internet, thanks to the monopoly of Microsoft.

Roger

Posted by dbenson ( 8110

)

on Apr-16-07 at 15:05:07 PDT

NOIP,

does anyone know (or a web site) what the rate of exchange between US$ and English Pounds in 1886 was,

David B.

Posted by iomoon ( 1050

)

on Apr-16-07 at 14:58:05 PDT

Jim

Save your eyes (and ours) get firefox.

Posted by keleofa ( 3414

)

on Apr-16-07 at 14:54:47 PDT

Board Font...

Using IE 7? small size, Jim's links are normal (ie small)

Using Netscape 7.1 same small size, except Jim's links are ginormous!

Matt in Arizona

Posted by jp-themint ( 8277

)

on Apr-16-07 at 14:49:48 PDT

We have updated our StampTracker data so you can view the latest SMQ Price Data in graph form (both by price and % increase) for any graded Scott number at http://stores.ebay.com/Jay-Parrinos-The-Mint-LLC/StampTracker.html

Posted by stamphick! ( 336

) on Apr-16-07 at 14:47:19 PDT

Default font on board is just fine, yours is atrocious, the links at the end of your post take up 12 giant lines.

Firefox (Mozilla 5.0)

Posted by iomoon ( 1050

)

on Apr-16-07 at 14:31:08 PDT

dutchman

Chinkiang was a Treaty Port 112 miles upriver (Yangtze)from Shanghai.
Stamped mail was operative from 1894 to February 2nd 1897.

Posted by keleofa ( 3414

)

on Apr-16-07 at 14:28:23 PDT

Hi guys>

re: Melgen, O

The spelling is 'MELGEN' -- assumed typos in some references. Thanks for all your help!

Matt in Arizona

Posted by iomoon ( 1050

)

on Apr-16-07 at 14:17:16 PDT

Matt in Ohio

Yes it does.
You click on the persons feedback, then go to box with "contact member".
Whether you can read the silly code number is another matter entirely and I'm not sure what it's for.

Posted by paperhistory ( 1976

)

on Apr-16-07 at 13:53:50 PDT

p.s. Matt in AZ - did you get my email? (I used the one that's posted for you at the EUSC website, since eBay apparently no longer allows email contact between users if there isn't an open transaction between them).

Posted by paperhistory ( 1976

)

on Apr-16-07 at 12:50:08 PDT

Matt in AZ and Nomad: that is a nice Ohio site before. I don't think I'd seen it -- it's derived from some turn-of-the-century indexes to Ohio atlases (I have some originals that have been useful tools -- even better that someone digitized one!)

Posted by keleofa ( 3414

)

on Apr-16-07 at 11:36:30 PDT

Nomad,

re: Melgen, Ohio

Thanks! Nice site.

Matt in Arizona

Posted by nomad55 ( 880

)

on Apr-16-07 at 11:01:17 PDT

Arizona Matt....this site lists Melgen. No Melgren.

http://www.livgenmi.com/1895/OH/Index/m.htm

As an aside, this is a great site for checking out info on various small towns. I use it quite frequently in my Virginia postal history quests.

Posted by keleofa ( 3414

)

on Apr-16-07 at 10:44:36 PDT

Ohio Postal History...

Matt (Paperhistory) or anyone re: Ohio towns,

I have this cover from Melgen, Ohio. My reference and Jim Forte's site both list "Melgren", Licking County but no Melgen. Back has transit/receiving markings Zanesville and Millersport.

What's up with Melgen? DPO? Misspelling?

T I A,

Matt in Arizona

Posted by iomoon ( 1050

)

on Apr-16-07 at 10:03:13 PDT

dutchman

I wont have access to my data till tonight but here is a nice web site devoted to such stamps.

Posted by dutchman2006 ( 116

) on Apr-16-07 at 09:19:20 PDT

You are right iomoon my mistake or should I say a spelling mistake. It is Chinkiang. could you tell me about this Teaty Port? and its Circular Date Cancels. Thankyou.

Posted by abt1950 ( 224

)

on Apr-16-07 at 08:22:51 PDT

And it's still not completely over. There are still rivers rising and the bulk of the storm itself has moved north.

I'll be glad when this is all over and I can play with my new Morley-Bright watermark detector, which is winging its way to me as we speak.

That was a very useful discussion a few days back. Someone--can't remember who at the moment--was wondering where to order replacement ink sachets. Amos sells them; they're not that expensive.

Anne

Posted by cobbie10 ( 6091

)

on Apr-16-07 at 08:05:09 PDT

Apparently the barometric pressure was low enough this morning to be classed as a category 2 hurricane. Plenty of other facts like this as www.accuweather.com.

Posted by abt1950 ( 224

)

on Apr-16-07 at 07:28:37 PDT

Morning/afternoon/evening from a still rainy NJ.

Burt, Glad to hear that you came through ok except for a couple of extra hours of sleep and some peripatetic lawn furniture.

I have no idea what our barometer readings were, but we came through intact. The brook has fallen considerably but is not quite babbling yet, and our sump pumps continue to pump happily.

Other areas of the state were hit hard. The Acting Gov has declared a state of emergency and there are lots of roads closed. There were floods in the usual flood-prone areas, wreaking yet more havoc and destruction in people's lives.

Jim: Thanks for the laundry offer, but I think I'll take a raincheck.

Off to torture students--only a few opportunities left this semester. Anne

Posted by iomoon ( 1050

)

on Apr-16-07 at 06:57:21 PDT

Burt

Scarsdale was 966 hPa this morning.

Posted by oggilby ( 1200

)

on Apr-16-07 at 06:49:05 PDT

Anne-- what was your barometer pressure this morning? Ours hit 29.25 before the lights blew last night. I imagine that the pressure will be pretty low for this storm as it was one of the strongest Nor'Easters for years.

Posted by iomoon ( 1050

)

on Apr-16-07 at 06:48:20 PDT

Good day all.

dutchman

Do you mean Chinkiang?

Posted by oggilby ( 1200

)

on Apr-16-07 at 06:44:56 PDT

Greetings from soggy, windy (but not white, like Central NY (Hi Fulton!), Central Maryland where the creeks did rise, the grill got blown over & porch furniture left the porch to hide in the bushes! The power left us for 2 hours around midnight last night, causing quite the flurry of morning activity when we realized that none of the alarms had gone off and everybody was late for work/school.

Posted by jim_lawler ( 1288

)

on Apr-16-07 at 05:48:59 PDT

Greetings
and an Indiana "Good Morning"
to you all

Jim L.

Posted by mini*lindy ( 346

)

on Apr-16-07 at 05:11:08 PDT

Nice to see you here, stampman.cowell, John, you may remember me as Lyndel, (rather than *lindy), wife of Vic Walker, SG Aust. Many things have changed over the last few years, and Vic is no longer able to work. We still keep in touch with a few friends in the Trade here, but not many in the UK.
Just thought I'd say HI to you, and hope you are keeping busy in stamps.
L.

Posted by sayasan ( 641

)

on Apr-16-07 at 04:53:03 PDT

For "BOat=rd" read "Board". Strewth. Sorry.

Posted by sayasan ( 641

)

on Apr-16-07 at 04:50:40 PDT

Sorry, the response from Gibbons covers the whole bit down to "many thanks", which I meant all to be in blue. But you get the idea ..

Posted by sayasan ( 641

)

on Apr-16-07 at 04:47:59 PDT

More on the Gibbons London 2010 million pound penny black...

You may remember my objections that (1) this had been launched in Stamp Monthly as £1 a pixel, each pixel purchased giving a chance to win one of the ten hidden penny blacks, but that the minimum purchase offered on the site is now £100 ...

and (2) that the potential million pounds raised by this scheme appear to be going straight into Gibbons' coffers, and not even partly towards any good cause such as youth philately etc.

Here's the email response from Gibbons that I received today:

You are correct in your first assumption, each square does consist of 100 pixels, each pixel is £1.00 and thus makes £100 per square. This is for the full term of the project and thus works out at approximately 9p per square per day for the three years. The site will be removed on 31 Dec 2010.

... Finally you ask about the million pound sum of money, you are not the first! the best answer I give to this is "The good cause is the cause of promoting philately to a new audience" by this I mean that the one thing all in the hobby can agree on, particularly in the UK, is that we need to encourage a new and younger audience into the hobby, through this project Stanley Gibbons is using is marketing weight in the promotion of the hobby worldwide, Stanley Gibbons is also allowing all interested parties the opportunity of participating in this project so they to can help promote what they have to offer the budding collector. Marketing will take place not only through the philatelic press but also to the non philatelic press, we have many plans in place to push this site through many mediums in order to achieve the goal of showing the potential young, and not so young, collectors that stamps are fun!

I trust this answers your concerns, please feel free to call or email me if you have any more questions.

Many thanks .... etc.

BOat=rd readers may enjoy the carefully crafted answer about whether the money is going. Since this was loudly advertised as £1 a pop, and turns out to be £100 a pop, with all the proceeds going to Gibbons, I've simply pointed out that this looks like bad PR, and that they should keep their fingers crossed that Trading Standards don't notice.

"We have many plans in place to push this site through many mediums". The heart sinks ...

Richard W.

Posted by sayasan ( 641

)

on Apr-16-07 at 04:31:55 PDT

stampman.c - It was me asking about Holcombe certificates. Thanks very much for your comment, which is appreciated, and obviously carries weight, given your experience in this area. Reactions to my question have been few, but varied. The certs aren't mine, but I'm anticipating a situation where I have to query their verdict, that's all. But yes, you're right, my friend can always get another cert. In this case the items are from Burma, so the country of origin advice hardly applies, but, as David says, I get the idea. Thanks,

Richard W.

Posted by dbenson ( 8110

)

on Apr-16-07 at 03:25:13 PDT

stampman cowell,

interesting resume you have on your ME page,

I agree with you almost 100% with your take on certificates but it may be overdoing it by stating " preferably in the country that issued the stamps " but I know what you mean,

David B.

Posted by billsey ( 844

) on Apr-16-07 at 03:04:53 PDT

I could see where someone would say that the triangle stamps are more efficient to perf ... especially if they were comb perfed. Line perfed means three passes vs. two passes for rectangular, but remember also that you get twice as many stamps per sheet, so it averages out to 1.5 passes vs. 2.0 passes. Comb perfed you get that same twice as many with the same number of passes as with rectangular and you get an average of one pass instead of two.

Posted by stampman.cowell ( 1064

)

on Apr-16-07 at 03:01:46 PDT

Someone was asking about Peter Holcombe as an expert. I can say that over 25 years of dealing with Peter as an expert, his certificates were always well-researched and certainly respected. No "expert" is perfect and I am sure he and others make odd mistakes from time to time, so, if you are unhappy with one expert's opinion, just get another, preferably in the country that issued the stamps! (I belive Peter has retired now - though I am not sure?)

Posted by dutchman2006 ( 116

) on Apr-16-07 at 02:46:22 PDT

Hello:

I have seen a Chingkiang Local stamp with a Chingkiang Circular Date Cancel and this is described as a Treaty Port. Is this a Treaty Port cancel. Also could someone give me some more information regarding the Chingkiang Circular Date Cancel, etc.

Posted by dbenson ( 8110

)

on Apr-16-07 at 01:44:57 PDT

flip, I don't know, the printers were very haphazard with the paper and didn't worry about the direction of the watermark. Some of the rare compound perfs would have only been 1 or 2 sheets and the direction may be of great importance on those but not on the basic 12 x 12 1/2 & 11 perfs of which huge numbers were printed,

David B.

Posted by flip138 ( 375

) on Apr-16-07 at 01:25:32 PDT