Belgium’s “Do Not Deliver On Sundays” Stamps

Belgium boasts a rich heritage in the world of philately, with a wide array of unique and historically significant stamps. One particular set of stamps that has garnered attention among collectors is the "Do Not Deliver on Sundays" stamps and tabs that were issued in Belgium. These stamps offer a fascinating glimpse into the country's postal history and are highly sought after by philatelists around the world.

The "Do Not Deliver on Sundays" stamps and tabs in Belgium were issued between 1893 and 1912 as a means of addressing the regulations pertaining to Sunday mail delivery. The concept of prohibiting mail delivery on Sundays has been followed by many countries for various reasons, including religious observances and the need to provide postal workers with a day of rest. Belgium's approach to this was to issue special stamps and tabs that were affixed to mail to indicate that it should not be delivered on Sundays.

If the sender did not want their letter delivered on Sundays they would keep the perforated tab on the stamp which said “do not deliver on Sundays” in both French and Flemish. Conversely, if they did want it to be delivered they would remove the tab or mark over it.

The introduction of these distinctive stamps and tabs was a significant development in the philatelic history of Belgium. The designs of the stamps and tabs often featured imagery and text that clearly indicated the restriction on Sunday delivery. This added a unique dimension to the postal service and reflected the cultural and social norms of the time.

Collectors are often intrigued by the variations and nuances within the "Do Not Deliver on Sundays" stamps and tabs. These can include differences in design, color variations, and unique printing characteristics, all of which add depth and complexity to the pursuit of acquiring these stamps. Additionally, the tabs that were affixed alongside the stamps further enrich the story, as they often featured supplementary information related to the Sunday delivery

In conclusion, Belgium's "Do Not Deliver on Sundays" stamps and tabs offer a captivating journey into the country's postal history, cultural traditions, and the art of stamp design. With their historical significance, aesthetic appeal, and scarcity, these stamps hold a special place in the hearts of philatelists worldwide. Whether you are a seasoned collector or just beginning your philatelic journey, the "Do Not Deliver on Sundays" stamps and tabs of Belgium present an exciting and rewarding avenue for exploration and acquisition within the world of stamp collecting.

For more information, go to http://thestampblog.com/belgium-dominical-labels.html