USPS Requests Info on Innovative Design, Print Production of Stamps

Currently, Postage Stamps are printed using four methods: Offset, Intaglio, Rotogravure and the combination of Offset and Intaglio. They are printed with high resolution of 300 to 500 screen lines, and include micro-printing techniques, as well as scrambled image overlays not visible to the naked eye. Some Stamps include luminescent or metallic inks adding value to Philatelic purposes. They are also coated with a phosphorescent agent that allows the envelope to be automatically positioned for machine cancellation, sorting and bar-coding. Stamps are manufactured with both water activated gum (WAG) and pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA) on the backing sufficient to avoid corner lift during processing. The papers and adhesives are designed to be environmentally friendly and recyclable. The components are also designed to withstand the adverse effects of atmospheric elements over the long term (e.g., storage, collection, processing, distribution, and delivery). Finally, the product is manufactured in optimal economic order quantities to reduce cost and maximize margin (contribution).