Celebrating 25 years as an APS member

During my time at college, there was one day when I was in the campus library that I ran across a copy of The American Philatelist. Although I had been collecting stamps since I was a preteen, I wasn’t familiar with the American Philatelic Society, but I was intrigued by the idea of being part of a big club of stamp collectors, and I promptly applied to join.

Many moons have passed since that time, and the APS staff recently mailed me a certificate recognizing my 25 consecutive years of membership. (I understand 25-year members who were able to attend Boston 2026 received their certificates at the show.)

Some might question the value of being a member of the APS, and it’s probably a fair question to ask. Here’s how I look at it: the APS is the biggest organization promoting stamp collecting in the United States. I’ve benefitted a great deal from philately over the years—not financially, but educationally, from what the various things the hobby has taught me, and if the APS’s efforts to promote stamp collecting result in someone else getting the same enjoyment from the hobby, then my modest annual membership dues are money well spent.

Published 2026-06-29