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| Stamp collecting remains the world's most popular hobby. As a roving ambassador of the issuing country, the postage stamp offers a glimpse into a country's cultural, artistic and historical heritage. Countless individuals from all walks of life, of all political persuasions and all social classes are constantly on the look-out for postage stamps to add to their collection. Other people make a living from the production and sale of stamps. |
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| The issue, marketing and sale of postage stamps are domestic matters for Posts, which have often developed innovative marketing strategies to promote stamps - particularly amongst young people. Philatelic partners throughout the world have joined forces to form the World Association for the Development of Philately (WADP) which, under UPU auspices, serves as a forum for philatelic partners and particularly for Posts, philatelic agents, collectors and stamp dealers. |
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The enormous economic potential of the philately sector has, however, spawned a number of abusive practices, including the illegal issue of postage stamps without the authorization of the Posts concerned, counterfeit stamps and prepayment impressions, and over-production of stamps with the sole aim of turning a profit.
WNS, the numbering scheme for the authentic postage stamps of UPU members, provides an effective tool to raise consumer awareness of these abuses. The UPU also offers guidance in the form of the Philatelic Code of Ethics, and regularly distributes information to the philatelic community at large about unauthorized stamp issues. |
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| The UPU International Bureau is also able to promote the goals and mission of the Universal Postal Union through the sale of UPU official stamps in all countries apart from Switzerland. |
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