little answers to your big questions

Questions on vintage stamps:

Are your stamps valid postage?

Yes, all of our stamps are nationally and internationally valid when sent through the U.S. Mail.

I’m mailing my envelopes after January 22nd, 2012, how are you accomodating the postal increase?

As of January 22 2012, the U.S. post office is increasing the postage rate to 45-cents for a standard envelope. To accommodate this change, beginning January 1, 2012, our mixed packs will contain 45-cents per pack.

How old are the stamps?

Our collections range from the early 1900s through the 1980s.

Can the stamps be used on large packages or just envelopes?

Yes, the stamps can be used in the same way that modern day stamps are used.

Do the stamps have sticky gum on the back so they can be adhered to a parcel easily?

Yes, all of the stamps are pre-gummed so you can simply wet the backs and then affix to your parcel.

Questions regarding mixed packs:

How much postage is included in each mixed pack?

Each pack includes .45 cents worth of postage (which is the current rate for mailing a standard parcel).

How many stamps are included in a mixed pack?

Each pack will be filled until the amount totals .45 cents. Sometimes we can reach .45 cents with 3 stamps, and sometimes in takes 5. Every pack is different and there are rarely two that are the same. We think that is part of the charm!

What is the monetary value on the stamps included in a mixed pack?

Each pack will contain a random assortment of stamps with different monetary values. The values of the stamps generally found in the mixed packs range from 2 cents – 25 cents.

What color stamps are included in a mixed pack?

We tend to think that the charm of using vintage stamps to mail your parcel comes from how eclectic your package looks once you have all your stamps affixed. Our mixed packs have no rhyme or reason when it comes to color. Some are purple, blue, pink, brown, and even bright orange. The eclectic mix will give your package a graphic charm that can’t be done with modern stamps.

Is there a minimum number of mixed packs you have to order?

There is no minimum – you can order one bag if you choose!

Is there a maximum number of mixed packs that you can order?

There is no maximum. However, if you are planning to order over 100 packs, please allow one week for your order to be filled.

Questions regarding custom stamp orders:

Can I request a custom combination of stamps?

Custom stamp requests can be made by emailing greetings@thepapernickel.com and telling us a little about what you’re looking for. Because every custom order is different, we base the pricing and order time on the availability of the stamps you’re interested in and the time it takes for us to fill your order.

General questions:

How do I know how much postage I need?

Sometimes a piece of mail requires additional postage because it is a certain shape, size, or weight. To make sure you’re paying the correct postage, it is best to weigh your envelope before ordering stamps.

How do you ship your orders? Is rush shipping available?

Orders under $50 are sent using Priority Mail through USPS. All orders over $50 are sent using FedEx Ground and a tracking number will be emailed to you once your order ships from our shop. If you are interested in rush shipping, please contact us before your purchase so we can determine the best method and price to get your order to you in time!

How long will my order take to be filled and shipped?

Orders for mixed packs take about 3 business days to process and fill. If you order more than 100 mixed packs, please allow approximately 1 week for your order to be filled. After it is completed, we will ship your order using FedEx or Priority Mail. You can anticipate an additional 3 days for shipping.

Do you accept international orders?

At this time, our store is not set up to take international orders.

Do you charge sales tax?

We do charge a 6% tax on all orders from Michigan.

What is your return/refund policy?

Unopened mixed packs may be returned within 7 days of receipt for a full refund. Once we receive the returned packs, and insure that they have not been opened, we will credit your account. Shipping costs are non-refundable. This policy does not apply to custom orders. Custom orders are non-refundable once payment has been made.

Is my transaction secure?

We will never give out your email, and we will only contact you if we have questions regarding your order. Payment transactions on our site are done through Paypal, so The Paper Nickel will never see your credit card information.

A few of the stamps I received don’t stick very well around the edges. Any suggestions?

There are a few instances when an older stamp won’t stick well to a package. If you run into one of these pesky stamps, don’t try to peel it off. Instead, after you affix it to your package, it’s best to finish it off by using a small dots of glue around the edges with a toothpick. Any glue that dries clear will work.

I am looking for a calligrapher and loved the writing on the envelopes in your photos. Could you tell me who did the work?

The calligraphy was done by Vicki Corwin who has been a calligrapher for thirteen years. You can reach her at vickicorwin@aol.com.