Glossary of Philatelic Terms

Commemorative Issue
A Commemorative Stamp is a stamp issued to mark a person, special event or anniversary - which is usually only on sale for a limited period of time.

A commemorative stamp-issuing programme is compiled each year and between 12 and 15 commemorative issues are produced per year. Their themes and issue dates often coincide with a particular event such as National Heritage Day, National Marine Day, World Post Day, etc.

First Day Cover
A First Day Cover is a cover usually issued by a Post Office on the day of a new stamp issue. Most are cancelled by a specially-designed canceller.