Book excerpt: Special delivery from the United States Postal Service--The definitive guide to every U.S. stamp issued from 1847 to the present The only fully illustrated, four-color guide to U.S. stamps, this official publication provides the most comprehensive information available about the U.S. stamp program and its vivid history. Commencing with the first stamps released in 1847, The Postal Service Guide to U.S. Stamps includes every stamp issued up to the present--nearly 4,000 entries--as well as: Coverage of every category of U.S. stamp--definitive commemorative, airmail, special delivery, duck stamps, stamped envelopes, and more--all organized into easy-to-use, color-coded sections for quick access Detailed listings for each stamp, with color illustrations, Scott catalog numbers, descriptions, dates of issue, used and unused prices, quantities issued (when known) and separate listings for design variations A complete guide to the new 2000 commemorative stamp program How to get started collecting, with everything you need to know--from advice on assessing the condition and value of your stamps to organizing, displaying, and preserving your collection A resource section listing philatelic organizations, publications, museums, and official philatelic centers in every state A glossary of important terms And much more!