Philatelic Glossary
This glossary has been compiled from various different sources. Some of the terms have been reproduced with kind permission from the Stanley Gibbons Philatelic Terms Illustrated by James Mackay. If you think a term is missing please e-mail us.
Burin
The cutting tool of tempered steel, one end of which is a sharp point used in engraving on metal as in-line engraving.
Burr
The uneven raised edge of surplus metal resulting from the passage of the engraver's burin.
Bus Parcel Stamps
Private stamps issued by bus companies to prepay freight charges on packets and parcels conveyed on bus routes.
Business Reply Service
A service provided by the Post Office to enable people to send mail to business firms free of charge. The business takes out a licence and all charges are debited to the licence holder.
By Posts
These were the "feeder services" to the six Post Roads in Great Britain in the later part of the 17th & 18th centuries.
You may also be interested in...
Philatelic Research
Our guide to conducting philatelic research at the Royal Mail Archive
Find out how to study our collection of unique registration sheets, metal dies and plates, and modern stamp artwork.
Volunteers
Volunteers offer us invaluable support - and extra help is always welcome!
Our volunteers have helped catalogue our collection, run our events, and more. Find out how to get involved.
