Special Services Scout Mail

The term "special services" is used to categorize stamps that are issued or applied to pay postage for a particular type of postal service. When used in conjunction with commemorative issue Scout stamps, these adhesive or hand stamps make a unique collectable topical combination. This article highlights examples of special services possible with contemporary Scout issues in the United States.

Registered mail provides the highest level of security offered for mail delivery. Mail is accounted for by piece number in special ledgers with signatures. Registered service is also known on First Day Covers and bank mail tags.

Twenty cents in postage supplements first class postage for registered service in 1948. The back of the envelope is hand stamped "Minneapolis Registry Service."

Seventy-five cents in postage supplements first class postage for registered service in 1962. The back of the envelope is hand stamped "Fort Worth Station No. 20."

This 1962 registered cover was franked with 40 ct. Liberty (# 1050), 30 ct. Liberty (# 1049) and 4 ct. Girl Scouts (# 1199). Mailed Aug. 16, 1962 from Brooklyn NY and received Aug. 17, 1962 at New York City, NY. Also stamped "Returned Receipt Requested."

Special delivery stamps were franked with first class postage to pay the fee for immediate delivery. This category of stamps was discontinued in 1971. Thirty cents special delivery rate added to first class postage in 1960.

Postage due stamps were specifically issued to be franked to a letter for which postage was insufficiently paid. These stamps were discontinued in 1985. This overweight envelope was sent at first class letter rate, and then hand cancelled to indicate additional postage of 8 cents was required in 1962.