[Dx-qsl] SOAKED OFF STAMPS

[Buzz Jehle]

The regulation in the US is you cannot use stamps that have passed 
through the mail ( those that go on a letter or package that is 
delivered, but where the stamps escape cancellation.  It is perfectly OK 
to soak off a stamp that has not been used to provide a service and use 
that stamp again.  The distinction is whether or not the Post Office 
provided a service or not.  If the stamp wasn't used it to get Post 
Office service, it may be soaked or peeled and reused.  Obviously those 
that soak used stamps and clean them to remove cancels and reuse them 
are "stealing service" which is what the regulations want to prevent.

73 Buzz N5UR

Doug Renwick wrote:

>Is it unethical/illegal  to soak/steam an unused/uncancelled stamp off an envelope and
>reuse the stamp?
>
>Suppose I place a stamp on an envelope, write the address, make a mistake and
>tear up the envelop.  Or suppose an envelope gets messed up or wet and the writing
>smears or it looks like someone ran dirty boots over it.   Do I throw both the envelope
>and unused stamp in the trash?  Yes if I am wasteful;  No if I display stewardship.
>
>To those who claim it is illegal to use a soaked/steamed stamp, please help by providing
>post office rules and procedures that state such so that we can all be better informed.
>
>
>--
>Doug Renwick VA5DX
>PO Box 50, Clavet, Saskatchewan, Canada S0K 0Y0
>VE5RA@sasktel.net
>
>
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