Feilpropagasjon

Feilpropagasjon is a concept within stamp philately, referring to the incorrect handling of postage stamps, often during the process of post office procedures. This can lead to irregularities in stamp placement, particularly with regard to the adhesive side touching the stamp's design.

One of the main contributing factors to feilpropagasjon is human error, as postal workers may inadvertently apply the stamp incorrectly. This can involve orienting the stamp in a way that allows the adhesive to come into contact with the design, resulting in (potentially attractive) defects and, in extreme cases, compromising the overall appearance and collectibility of the stamp.

Feilpropagasjon is particularly relevant in areas with large volumes of addressed mail, where the constant flow of letters and packages means employees handling the mail may inadvertently introduce errors when applying stamps. In more recent years, increased automation in postal services has lessened instances of feilpropagasjon, as machines have taken on a greater share of tasks, reducing potential human errors.

Some stamp collectors, often referred to as 'philatelic enthusiasts', view irregularities caused by feilpropagasjon as an attractive aspect of certain stamps, particularly if they present a somewhat chance and often ephemeral aesthetic. These irregularities can lead to the perception that each item in the postal process holds a unique value.

It is worth noting that feilpropagasjon is a concept primarily relevant in areas that have had extensive postal history, given that many collections focus on pristine, high-quality stamps. As such, the more rigorous demands of serious philatelism mean that this natural irregular variation can result in stamps initially underrated and, in a longer view, significantly, acknowledge as flaws.