PhilosateleiaIf you collect U.S. stamps, you've probably discovered that many self-adhesive issues cannot be soaked safely. Some of them curl up into a tight, crinkled roll as soon as you remove them from the paper to which they are attached, while others refuse to come loose from the envelope at all without separating into layers. Using the Soakability Index, you can learn which stamps can be safely soaked and which ones should be left on paper.
This information is based on my personal observations. If your experience with a particular stamp issue differs, please contact me so I can make a note of it.
Y = Yes; N = No; U = Undetermined; S = See Note
2008
| Stamp Issue | Soakable | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Lunar New Year | Y | |
| Charles W. Chesnutt | Y | |
| Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings | Y | |
| American Scientists | Y | |
| Flags (die cut 9.5 vert.) | N | |
| American Journalists | N | |
| Tropical Fruit (die cut 8.4 vert) | Y | |
| Frank Sinatra | N | |
| Minnesota | N | cracks and curls when soaked |
| 42¢ & 59#162; Hearts | N | |
| Love | N | |
| Flags of Our Nation | Y | |
| Charles & Ray Eames | N | |
| Olympic Games | Y | |
| Take Me Out to the Ball Game | Y | |
| Vintage Black Cinema | S | Collector William reports moderate success in soaking this issue--some stamps come free from the paper, and some don't. Soak with caution! |
| Albert Bierstadt | Y | |
| Sunflower | N |
Note: Virtual Stamp Club has a much more comprehensive listing of which U.S. stamps can be soaked beginning with the 2008 issues. I recommend viewing their list for the latest information.