What Is Cachet for Stamps?

Cachets add interest to postcards and envelopes.

In philately (stamp collecting), stamp cachets are printed artwork--other than the stamps themselves or cancellation marks--on envelopes, postcards or other sheets. Cachets are used to commemorate specific events or create interest in special topics.

First-Day Covers

The most common cachets are first-day covers. These are special envelopes or postcards with cachets and canceled postage to commemorate the first day issue of a stamp.

Cachet Makers

Cachet companies began printing first-day covers in the 1920s, and long-time companies like Artmaster and Artcraft are highly collectible. Another popular cachet maker is Fleetwood, who began producing covers in the 1940s.

Postal Stationery

Stamped envelopes, postcards and other stationery issued by governments are referred to as postal stationery. It will often be printed with cachets for public interest or to designate departments.

Souvenir Cards

Souvenir cards or pages are relatively new. The United States Postal Service (USPS) began issuing them in the 1960s for special events or topics to boost interest in philately. They will contain pre-printed postage mixed with a variety of artwork and text.

Collecting Cachets

Cachets collectors are most fond of first-day covers, and most covers are inexpensive for novice philatelists. Souvenir cards are also popular, and several are issued each year by the USPS and other countries.

References

• How to Collect First Day Covers
• Postal Stationery
• Souvenir Cards

Resources

• American First Day Cover Society