Amadeus or Amadeo
King of Spain from 1870 to 1873. Several issues from Spain during this period bear his likeness.
BEP
Bureau of Engraving, Washington, D.C., where all U.S. currency and almost all U.S. postage stamps have been produced, since 1894.
Bridger and Kaye Ltd (B&K)
London stamp dealers, who publish the Commonwealth catalogue, normally referred to as the “Commonwealth” or “B&K”.
British European Airways (BEA)
After 1951 it issued its own airmail stamps to cover fees on letters carried. The letters had to be handed
Acknowledgement of receipt
A stamp issued against payment of a special fee, so that acknowledgement of receipt of the postal item will be
Bureau Precancels
Stamps, which are precancelled at the Bureau of Engraving.
Extended Margin
See Margins.
Backstamp
Postmark applied to the back of incoming mail to show date and time of receipt at the receiving post office.
Airmail Stamp
Stamp intended to prepay airmail postage; the first recorded is the 25 cent rose, Italian express stamp, 200, 000 of
Ambulante (Fr.)
Travelling. Used on stamps or on cancellations of various nations, particularly of Belgium and France, "Poste Ambulante" indicates that the
Fugitive Colours
Stamps printed in "singly fugitive" inks afford a protection against the removal of postmarks. "Doubly fugitive" inks afford an extra
Frank
In early times Court or Government officials and other privileged persons were allowed to send correspondence free, under cover of