semipostals

Semipostals, or semipostal stamps, are postage stamps that include a mandatory charitable surcharge in addition to the standard postage value. The surcharge is designated for a specific charitable or public welfare cause, and the funds are collected by the postal authority and donated to the beneficiary. The face value of the stamp remains valid for postage at its stated rate, while the surcharge is intended to raise funds for the designated organization or project. Surcharges can be fixed amounts or percentages of the postage, and the beneficiary is specified by the issuing authority.

Semipostals are issued by many countries to support a wide range of causes, including medical research, disaster relief, cultural programs, and humanitarian aid. They are typically marketed as a dual-purpose issue: they fulfill ordinary mailing needs while also contributing to a charitable objective. The design often highlights both the postal value and the charitable purpose, sometimes featuring a prominent inscription or symbol related to the beneficiary.

In philately, semipostals have a documented place as collectible stamps. Interest for collectors arises from the combination of design, the charitable association, and the fundraising aspect, as well as from factors such as issuing quantities, varieties, and condition. Some semipostals are issued for a limited time or as part of a campaign and may be withdrawn after the fundraising period. Their monetary value as collectibles can vary independently of the charitable impact they supported.

Overall, semipostals serve a dual role: they function as standard postage while also providing a mechanism to channel funds to charitable causes through philatelic issues.