Hello, actually these subjects have absolutely nothing in common, it is just that I have two topics to write about tonight.

The first is this wonderful cover that I am giving away to whoever can tell me what an anthropomorphism is       What has that got to do with stamps. Well nothing I guess but if you dont know you might like to find out. Anyway since Rupert is an example well it seemed appropriate to ask.   send your answer to me at cddstamps@gmail.com. I'll give the cover to the 3rd correct answer. Please include your mailing address.

As for Australia Post,  I read an interesting article in the newspaper today. It was about how the internet is eroding letter profits. The article mentioned how Australia Post's traditional letter business is feeling the force of the internet and how the number of letters sent has declined for the fourth successive year here in Australia.

This must be a global trend I would think, so what does it mean for stamp collectors. Well, I would think it means that all these new issues we keep seeing, are being bought by collectors and not being used on letters. If that is the case the value of used copies of the current new issues will surely increase as there will be less of them.  Get my logic. Right or wrong,  I will only be able to tell you in 10 years time..  or maybe sooner..  if I am around     There is a corollary, there always is ......  that being parcel post is increasing as people buying from eBay and other internet sites are driving an increase in the parcel post. That being the case will we see more higher value stamps in used condition    Which ever way you look at it I suggest you collect fine used and not mint.   Lets wait and see what the next catalogue issues show the prices to be. I do know that the GB SG catalogues are showing some high prices for many used GB Commemoratives. what about other countries   Do write to me with your thoughts.

Am riding at 5am again tomorrow so must crash.... nite.. and enjoy your stamps.... Michael  ...zzzzzzzzzzz