The “P” on Canadian stamps stands for “Permanent”, which is a type of stamp. Here is a detailed introduction:

Background of introduction

In November 2005, Canada Post began selling P-marked stamps. At that time, the domestic rate for letter mail was 51 cents, and these stamps were sold at this price. Subsequently, when Canada Post increased its rate to 52 cents on January 15, 2007, the P-marked stamps remained valid and could continue to be used at the new rate. Their introduction was to reduce the need for people to buy additional stamps to meet price increases. In the past, people often had to purchase 1 or 2 cent stamps to make up for price hikes. The introduction of P stamps largely eliminated this hassle for consumers. Canada became the latest country to introduce stamps that retain their value, joining Britain, Finland, Israel, Belgium, France, Norway, Monaco, and Sweden.

Features and benefits

The P stamp is a type of non-denominated stamp. Instead of a specific numerical value, it features the letter “P” within a red maple leaf. This symbolism indicates that the stamp is permanent and valid for domestic postage. Its most significant advantage is that it retains its value regardless of postage rate changes. For example, when the postage rate increases, a P stamp purchased at a lower price can still be used at the current rate, ensuring its purchasing power for mailing a regular letter within Canada. This provides convenience and cost-effectiveness for consumers. Suppose someone bought a batch of P stamps when the domestic postage rate was 51 cents. Even if the rate rises to 52 cents or higher, these stamps can still be used normally. This eliminates concerns about stamps becoming obsolete due to price increases and avoids the need to buy additional stamps.

Other related stamps

Before the introduction of P stamps, Canada had also issued other non-denominated stamps, such as the A stamps in 1981. The A stamps were released in December 1981 when Canada Post needed a stamp for the proposed new first-class rate but was unsure of the exact increase. The A stamps were produced with an “A” mark and could be used at the new rate once it was determined.

Collection value

Although P stamps are primarily for postage, they also hold certain collectible value. For stamp collectors, P stamps represent a special period in Canada’s postal history. Their unique design and features make them an important addition to collections. Additionally, as time passes and postal services evolve, P stamps may become rarer in the future, potentially increasing their collectible and investment value. For instance, some discontinued P stamp designs or limited-edition P stamps may attract the interest of collectors and become sought-after items in the philatelic market.

Changes in the market

In December 2014, Canada Post announced a proposed domestic postage rate increase to 85 cents per stamp, or $1 if purchased individually. As part of its five-point plan to return to profitability, the corporation withdrew P-marked stamps and reintroduced definitive stamps marked with the current first-class domestic rate of 63 cents. However, the P stamps did not disappear completely. In January 2014, new definitive stamps marked with both the “P” for permanent and “63” for 63 cents were issued. Other definitive stamps, such as international and U.S.-specific stamps, were not offered in permanent-rate versions.

In summary, the “P” on Canadian stamps signifies “Permanent” stamps. These stamps provide convenience for consumers and stability for postal services. They also hold unique value in postal history and philately. For those interested in Canada’s postal system or stamp collecting, understanding the meaning of the “P” on Canadian stamps and their related background is of great significance.