Germany: Scott C58, Mi-607

I was in the midst of sorting a collection and came across this stamp. A Mint, never hinged copy of C58.








The Hindenburg issue of 1936, like the OSTROPA sheet of 1935, contained Sulfuric acid in the gum. Those stamps that do not have the gum soaked off eventually turn black and brittle. Eventually, these stamps will crumble. The corner on this example broke when I removed it from the mount. Sadly, it is too late to soak the gum off this stamp; the damage is already done.

This set and the OSTROPA sheet are valued without gum. When the time comes to add these to your collection, be sure you have a look at the backs lest you buy an original gum space filler.

Brian

I never realized the gum of that issue contained Sulfuric acid in the gum. Thank you.

Now why would anyone lick that or for that matter add it to something intended to be licked.

I'm sure the concentration is so low that one would have to lick a lot of stamps for the acid to have a negative effect. As for why it was used in the gum, I cannot say. I have asked the question here in the past, Googled the question, and even held signs at freeway on-ramps (that last claim is embellished), but haven't come up with an answer. I'd love to know, myself!

Brian

Slow chemical warfare perhaps?? I just seen a guy on the freeway but he was lookin for change. Not your secret to adding to the stamp budget is it?

Busted! I won't reveal how successful I was, but this photo is allegedly me at work ...