An Introduction to
Perfins Collecting
What are Perfins?
Perfins is an acronym derived from PERForated INSignia or INitialS on stamps.
Originating in England in 1868, perfins have been punched into stamps by large
commercial organizations such as manufacturers, retailers, railroads, banks,
insurance companies, and governments to discourage stamp theft. Since
then, in over 300 countries and stamp issuing areas, perfins have been utilized
expressly for that purpose. In the United States over 6500 different
patters of initials or designs have been perforated into U.S. postage, revenue,
and special service stamps.
Where can I find Perfins?
To most stamp collectors, perfins are the unwanted "damaged" stamps tossed aside
or appear in collections as "space fillers" when a collector does not have a
better copy, or can be found in mixtures, especially older mixes of definitive
or regular stamps.
Why collect Perfins?
How to collect and mount perfins.
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