Cancelled To Order Stamps

I hate CTO's with gum...since they are already "used" the gum is simply a hindrance, and, as far as I know, adds no value to the stamp.

Disclaimer: I am one of those who don't care about gum/gum quality and seldom more than glance at the back of the stamp. My opinion is, having seen one stamp's back, you've seen em' all!



It wasn't intended as an insult - I just think it is a different kind of stamp. I suspect topical collectors are as interested in the topic as they are the stamp, and the CTO's are perfect for topicals. I have several topical interests and will welcome CTO's in those collections.

Charles.

Hey guys

I think a light bulb just turned on in my little head.

Lately I've notice some of the stamps I have don't look used at all but are cancelled. I'm assuming these are CTO's.

I can understand the different points of view on them but I still like all stamps weather they are postally used mint or so called CTO's.

I must say however I do prefer the older classics. I find they have way more character the the newer stamp.

That's my little blurp for awhile have to go plant an Ohio Buckeye and a peach tree.

See ya later

Dianne

This is an outstanding topic, and IMHO there are no right or wrong answers. I won't knowingly put a CTO in my collection, but sometimes it's almost impossible to tell. A lot of the German material can go either way because they routinely cancel their regular mail very neatly as if they have collectors in mind and they have some really great cancels to start with.

As to the unmailed or "factory" FDC's, I consider them to be CTO's also. That doesn't mean they aren't collectible - it just means I won't collect them. I don't care what you collect - if it's good for you then it's good for me!