159.324 Express Mail. Any postal employee who cannot dispatch, distribute, or deliver an Express Mail pouch because there is no delivery address on the outside of the pouch must promptly open the pouch to find a delivery address on any envelope, wrapper, or other article inside the pouch. Postal employees must not open the wrappers or envelopes or break the seals of any Express Mail articles inside the pouch (see 115). If address information is found, the pouch must be closed securely and promptly tagged and forwarded to the delivery address. If no address information is found inside the pouch, the pouch must be sent to the dead mail branch. Hold Express Mail shipments a maximum of 5 workdays before return if the sender names no specific period (see 291.2 and 291.3). 159.325 Return of Registered, Numbered Insured, COD, Certified, Express Mail, and Return Receipt for Merchandise Mail. Handle registered, numbered insured, COD, certified, return receipt for merchandise, and Express Mail returns as follows: a. If a return receipt is attached to registered, numbered insured, COD, certified, return receipt for merchandise, or Express Mail that is to be returned, indicate the reason for nondelivery on the face of the article. The return receipt remains attached to the article and is returned to the mailer. Return registered mail immediately through the registered mail system. b. Before returning or forwarding registered, numbered insured, COD, certified mail, return receipt for merchandise, or Express Mail, do the following: (1) Complete Form 3849 and note the disposition of the article on the back of the form. (2) File Form 3849 for registered, numbered insured, COD, certified, and return receipt for merchandise mail with other delivery receipts (see 913.72). (3) File Form 3849 for Express Mail with Express Mail delivery receipts at the Express Mail manager/coordinator's office. c. When registered, numbered insured, COD, certified, return receipt for merchandise, or Express Mail is returned to the mailer, the mailer must sign a delivery receipt at the time the article is returned. The delivery receipt may be obtained on Form 3849 or Form 3883. 159.326 Other Mail. Handle mail returnable under the provisions in Chapters 3 through 7 as follows: a. Return without delay if refused by addressee. b. Return without delay if undeliverable when specifically addressed to a street, building, rural or highway contract route, or post office box, unless the addressee has moved without leaving a change of address. Hold mail for 10 days awaiting a forwarding order. If no order is received in that time, handle the mail as undeliverable. However, this does not preclude compliance with senders request in accordance with 122.18. c. Return without delay, if undeliverable, when incompletely, illegibly, or incorrectly addressed and addressee is unknown. d. Retain in general delivery not to exceed 30 days at request of sender, if addressed in a manner that indicates addressee is expected to call for mail or if addressee normally calls there for mail. e. Retain as follows when not specifically addressed or when sender does not specify a retention period: (1) Five days if for delivery by rural or highway contract route carrier. (2) Ten days if intended for general delivery service at an office having city carrier service, except that the mail may be held up to 30 days if the postmaster has been notified that the addressee will be delayed in coming to claim the item. (3) Fifteen days if intended for general delivery service at an office not having city carrier service. f. Mail addressed and deliverable to a post office box is not returned until after the box is declared vacant, except for registered, certified, insured, COD, postage-due, and perishable mail. g. Send undeliverable letters bearing the return address of a hotel, motel, school, college, or other public institution printed on the envelope as an advertisement to dead letter branches for disposition, unless the return address also includes the name or title of an individual or a printed or written request for return. h. Unclaimed franked mail from a Member of Congress, including that addressed under 122.452, and unclaimed official mail, including official reports and bulletins sent by state agricultural colleges and experiment stations, is returned to the postmaster at the office of origin if it is known. If office or origin is not known, send the mail to the post office at Washington, DC. Send undeliverable mail bearing the return address of the White House, the Senate, or the House of Representatives, with or without postage stamps, to the post office at Washington, DC. i. Return immediately if nonmailable, as specified in the procedures for the particular class of mail. 159.327 Return of Thirdand Fourth-Class Mail. The sender of thirdand fourth-class mail may identify pieces considered valuable and ensure their return by using one of the return postage guaranteed endorsements in Exhibit 159.151a through Exhibit 159.151f. To ensure the forwarding and return of mail, the sender must endorse the mail "Forwarding and Return Postage Guaranteed." This endorsement allows the addressee to refuse delivery of the mail and to return it at no charge if the mail or any attachment is not opened. 159.4 Dead Mail 159.41 Definition. Dead mail is matter deposited in the mail that is or becomes undeliverable and that cannot be returned to the sender from the last office of address. Some reasons that mail cannot be returned to the sender include: a. Matter is nonmailable. b. Sender is unknown. c. Classification of the mail does not entitle it to return service. 159.42 Insured and COD Matter. Hold each piece of dead insured and COD mail for 1 week after it becomes dead. On a weekly basis, send such pieces to the appropriate receiving dead parcel branch (see 159.521c). Insured and COD matter endorsed by the sender "Destroy" or "Abandon" is destroyed or abandoned when it becomes undeliverable at the last office of address. If the sender of undeliverable insured or COD mail refuses to accept it, send it to the dead parcel branch on the next weekly dispatch. If the parcel was insured, endorse Form 3849 to show refusal by the sender; if COD, endorse the tag to show refusal and file the tag with the delivery records. 159.43 Opening and Examination. With the exception of unendorsed bulk business mail (third-class bulk mail), all undeliverable thirdand fourth-class mail that cannot be returned because of an incorrect, incomplete, illegible, or missing return address is opened and examined to identify the sender or addressee. The same procedure is followed for First-Class Mail sent under 913.12 (insured First-Class parcels containing thirdor fourth-class enclosures). 159.431 Money Found Loose in the Mails. Dispose of money found loose in the mails as follows: a. United States money found loose in the mails, unless identified with losses from mail or returned to its owner, must be recorded on Form 25 and entered in AIC 126, Miscellaneous Nonpostal Revenue. If a valid claim is received for money found loose in the mails after it has been taken into the postal account, make the refund from current funds and enter in AIC 624, Refund of Miscellaneous Nonpostal Revenue . b. Retain 30 days, awaiting possible claim by owners, all foreign money and any United States money having unusual value, such as uncirculated coins, antiques, or collector's items if identified as such. If unclaimed after 30 days, send to Dead Parcel Branch, New York, NY 10199-9543. c. If a letter contains $10 or more in money, convert the cash to a money order, and deduct the money order fee prior to issuance of the money order. If the value is $10 or more, use registered mail to return negotiable or intangible property which might be converted into cash. For registered returns, charge the minimum registry fee as postage due if the article was not previously registered. 159.432 Uncanceled Stamps Found Loose in the Mail a. Uncanceled Stamps Appearing to Have Become Detached From Mail Articles (1) Reaffix the stamp to the mail if possible; if not, drop the stamp in a slotted and sealed or locked container kept for that purpose on the workroom floor. (2) Destroy stamps kept in these containers at least once a month. (3) Make no record of these stamps. b. Uncanceled Stamps Not Lost From Mail (1) Place in an envelope and retain 30 days in the inquiry section of the main office, if found at main office or at contract stations or branches; or in custody of the superintendent if found at classified stations and branches. (2) Make a descriptive record on the envelope only if the record assists in returning the stamps to the owner. (3) If unclaimed after 30 days, destroy monthly at the place of retention in the presence of a witness designated by the postmaster. Keep a record of the amount of stamps received and destroyed, by total amounts only, on Form 25. 159.433 Other Items. Return wallets, bank deposits, or other nonmail matter found in collection boxes or other points within the jurisdiction of the Postal Service, postage-due at the third-class rate specified in Exhibit 611.13. 159.434 Identified Articles. Make every reasonable effort to match articles found loose in the mail with the envelope or wrapper from which they were lost. If the mailer or addressee can be identified, return or forward the articles. 159.435 Unidentified Articles. Dispose of as waste any unidentified articles that have no value. Treat those of value, $10 or more, as dead mail. a. Unendorsed third-class mail is disposed of as waste. b. Dispose of printed matter, circulars, newspapers, magazines, and other publications as waste. c. If it is cost-effective, strip coins from undeliverable circulars and account for their value (see 159.431a). d. Stamp unidentified postal money orders "VOID" (location), prepare a memorandum explaining the circumstances, and send the money orders and memorandum to: MONEY ORDER BRANCH POSTAL DATA CENTER US POSTAL SERVICE PO BOX 82453 ST LOUIS MO 63182-9453 159.436 Return of Undeliverable Merchandise to Manufacturer or Distributor. Return merchandise to the nearest retail store, mail order store, or distribution center of a firm if the following evidence of ownership exists AND the firm does not object. Address questions regarding return of merchandise under this section to the appropriate rates and classification center (see 132). These conditions are the following: a. The articles must appear to be new. b. Each article, or bundle of articles, must have identification to clearly show the following information: (1) The name of the firm which made or distributed the articles. (2) An order or invoice number, or other evidence that the article was mailed by the firm in connection with a customer's order. 159.437 Disposal of Perishable Items, Drugs, and Cosmetics a. Packages containing medicine, perishable articles, liquids, and other articles likely to injure employees, damage equipment or other mail, or to attract pests, must be destroyed as soon as they are known to be undeliverable. b. Other perishable mail, drugs, and cosmetics are disposed of as follows: (1) Perishable Items. Perishable matter that cannot be forwarded or returned before spoiling, day-old poultry that cannot be delivered or returned within 72 hours after hatching, and other animals that cannot be returned to the sender in a viable condition, if salable, must be sold immediately by the postmaster. Neither the addressee nor any postal employees may buy any such item from the postmaster. The postmaster must send the proceeds of the sale, less both a commission of 10% (but not less than 25 cents) and the appropriate money order fee, to the mailer by postal money order, with an explanation of the action taken on Form 3820. Deliver perishable articles or animals that cannot be sold to any charitable institution or organization that will accept them. Live animals may also be delivered to a local humane society that will accept them. (2) Drugs. Destroy packages that contain drugs undeliverable to either the addressee or the sender. Do not sell, donate, or retain such packages as dead parcels. (3) Cosmetics. Treat as dead parcels undeliverable soaps, perfumes, powders, home permanent waves, hand lotions, hand creams, after-shave lotions, and deodorant sticks or pastes, which bear no statements claiming medical properties. Destroy undeliverable lipsticks and cosmetics which may jeopardize health. 159.438 Disposal to Institutions a. Food. Usable food items treated as dead mail may be donated to charitable institutions or public institutions supported in whole or in part by Federal, state, county, or municipal funds. These institutions include but are not limited to hospitals, asylums, and reformatories. The following conditions apply: (1) Do not donate "homemade" food items. They must be destroyed. If any doubt exists as to whether an item is "homemade" or usable, the item must be destroyed. (2) Usable food items which cannot be sold are donated to the local municipal welfare department if it will assume responsibility for distribution of usable food items to eligible institutions. If that department will not assume such responsibility, postmasters should apportion the items equitably among eligible applicant institutions. (3) The recipient must sign a release stating that in consideration of the Postal Service's donation of the items, the recipient assumes full responsibility for handling and storage of the food items, and their subsequent use. Releases must be retained in post office files. (4) Receiving institutions may not make any selections as to the type or quantity of food items to be accepted. (5) Recipients must call for food items as soon as possible. (6) Destroy food items that cannot be disposed of by donation. b. Periodical Publications (1) Copies of undeliverable newspapers, magazines, and other periodical publications may be furnished on request to reformatories, hospitals, asylums, and other similar institutions that are supported in whole or in part by charity or by public funds. (2) Copies of undeliverable publications may also be furnished to an administrative officer of a court for use by persons called for or assigned to jury duty. (3) Publications may be provided to qualifying organizations under the following conditions: (a) No additional clerical time is used in the post office beyond the time required for disposal of the copies as waste material. (b) No selection may be made by the receiving institution as to character, quality, or type of publications to be furnished. (c) The receiving institution must call for the copies promptly after notification of their availability, or on a scheduled basis. (d) This privilege is entirely at the option of the Postal Service and may be curtailed or discontinued at any time without notice. Postal employees must make reasonable efforts to inform receiving institutions of these conditions. c. Samples of Merchandise. Dispose of undeliverable samples of merchandise sent for advertising purposes, which do not bear the words "Return Postage Guaranteed," as follows: (1) Remove and destroy wrappers if this is practical and can be accomplished without additional expense. Deliver samples impartially to charitable or reformatory institutions that promise their free distribution. (2) Dispose of as waste any samples not suitable for distribution. 159.439 Government Property. Send unclaimed Government property that has a National Stock Number (NSN) (a 13-digit number displayed in character groups of 4-2-3-4, e.g., 1234-00-567-0089, imprinted on cartons, tags, or directly on the item) to the appropriate concentration point for return to the Federal supply system. 159.44 Foreign Mail 159.441 Originating in Canada. Enclose dead letters that originated in Canada in a penalty envelope. Show the city and state of the office making the return. Address the envelope to: UNDELIVERABLE MAIL OFFICE CANADA POST CORPORATION 710 PROGRESS AVENUE SCARBOROUGH ONTARIO M1N 2Z7 CANADA 159.442 Other. Send dead letters originating in countries other than Canada to the exchange office daily (see IMM 782).Do not send such dead letters to dead letter branches. 159.45 Matter Posted in Violation of Law or Treaty. Retain for 6 months after it becomes dead, all dead matter, including First-Class Mail that is not in the form of a letter, addressed to foreign countries if the mail has been posted in violation of law or treaty stipulation and is of obvious value. (See IMM individual country listing prohibitions.) 159.46 Firearms a. Handle concealable firearms, mailed contrary to 124.5, in accordance with ASM 221.414. b. Hold dead mail containing firearms, mailed in accordance with 124.5 or other firearms, for the applicable retention period. Then send it to your dead parcel branch, weekly, using registered mail. Include a memorandum with the shipment advising the reason for nondelivery and how it was discovered that the shipment contained firearms. 159.47 Disposition of Undeliverable Mail a. Send all First-Class Mail (except postcards and postal cards), third-class single-piece rate mail, and fourth-class mail that cannot be forwarded or returned to a dead letter or dead parcel branch for disposition. Send dead letters daily. Send dead parcels weekly. b. Send Express Mail Service shipments, that cannot be forwarded or returned during the specified holding period, to the management sectional center Express Mail office by Express Mail Service. If all efforts to deliver or return the article are unsuccessful, then and only then, send it to the dead letter branch in an Express Mail Service pouch. c. Dispose of postcards and postal cards without a return address, if the post office has facilities to destroy them by shredding or equivalent destruction. If not, forward them to the dead letter branch. d. Send small quantities (less than a combined total of 10 pieces) of undeliverable mail, unpaid mail, and unmailable dead letters to the claims and inquiry unit of the sectional center facility for consolidation and forwarding to the dead letter branch. Mark these bundles as dead mail. 159.48 Makeup and Dispatch 159.481 Marking. Make sure that the reason for nondelivery is endorsed on dead mail when preparing it for final disposition. Backstamp individual letters and postmark parcels. 159.482 Makeup a. Tie dead letters in separate bundles, or pouch, as warranted by quantity. b. Use sacks for dead parcels. c. Tie undeliverable, including unpaid mail and unmailable dead letters, in separate bundles. The separate bundles of undeliverable, unpaid mail, and unmailable dead letters may be placed in the same pouch. d. Bundles of dead letters addressed to dead mail branches may be enclosed with other mail in pouches or sacks addressed to a postal facility in which a dead mail branch operates. Do not place any other mail not intended for dead mail branches in letter bundles, pouches, or sacks addressed or labeled only to those branches. 159.483 Labeling and Addressing for Dispatch a. Address dead letter mail as follows: Dead Letter Branch (city, state, and ZIP+4) (see 159.511). b. Address dead parcel mail as follows: Dead Parcel Branch (city, state, and ZIP+4) (see 159.521c). c. When a pouch or sack is used, the address of the dead mail branch must be shown on a separate tag tied around the neck of the container to prevent opening in transit. d. Where available, use preprinted central markup labels to forward mail to dead mail units as follows: (1) Letter Bundles. Place on the top letter of the bundle adjacent to, but not covering, the original address. Affix a blue Label F in the lower left corner of the top letter. (2) Pouches and Sacks. Affix to a blank label inserted in the label holder, and to the security tag around the neck of the container. e. When preprinted central markup labels are not available, use Label 22, Dead Mail Matter, as a facing slip for letter bundles, or folded for use as a sack or pouch label for mail sent to dead letter or dead parcel branches. 159.484 Listing and Recording. Do not make a list or record of dead mail sent to a dead letter or dead parcel branch except as follows: a. Registered, Certified, and Numbered Insured Mail. Complete delivery receipt, show disposition, and file with other delivery receipts. Dispatch as registered all dead registered mail. b. Minimum Fee Insured Mail. Complete delivery receipt, show disposition, and file alphabetically under the name of addressee. c. COD Mail. Show disposition by endorsing COD tag, and file with return-to-sender records. 159.485 Dead Letter and Dead Parcel Branches. Send Form 1510 to dead letter or dead parcel branches inquiring about First-Class letters or parcels valued at $10 or more. 159.5 Dead Letter Branches and Service Areas 159.51 Dead Letter Branches. Locations of dead letter branches are: Atlanta, GA 30304-9506St. Paul, MN 55101-9514 New York, NY 10199-9543San Francisco, CA 94101-9502 Philadelphia, PA 19104-9597 159.511 Dead Letter Service Areas. The dead letter service areas are: State or TerritoryDead Letter Branch ] State or TerritoryDead Letter Branch AlabamaAtlanta, GA 30304-9590 AlaskaSan Francisco, CA 94105-9602 ArizonaSan Francisco, CA 94105-9602 ArkansasAtlanta, GA 30304-9590 CaliforniaSan Francisco, CA 94105-9602 ColoradoSt. Paul, MN 55101-9514 ConnecticutNew York, NY 10199-9543 DelawarePhiladelphia, PA 19104-9597 District of ColumbiaPhiladelphia, PA 19104-9597 FloridaAtlanta, GA 30304-9590 GeorgiaAtlanta, GA 30304-9590 GuamSan Francisco, CA 94105-9602 HawaiiSan Francisco, CA 94105-9602 IdahoSan Francisco, CA 94105-9602 IllinoisSt. Paul, MN 55101-9514 Indiana (ZIP Codes 420-424, 476-477)Philadelphia, PA 19104-9597 (All other ZIP Codes)St. Paul, MN 55101-9514 IowaSt. Paul, MN 55101-9514 KansasSt. Paul, MN 55101-9514 KentuckyPhiladelphia, PA 19104-9597 LouisianaAtlanta, GA 30304-9590 MaineNew York, NY 10199-9543 MarylandPhiladelphia, PA 19104-9597 MassachusettsNew York, NY 10199-9543 Michigan St. Paul, MN 55101-9514 MinnesotaSt. Paul, MN 55101-9514 MississippiAtlanta, GA 30304-9590 MissouriSt. Paul, MN 55101-9514 MontanaSan Francisco, CA 94105-9602 NebraskaSt. Paul, MN 55101-9514 NevadaSan Francisco, CA 94105-9602 New HampshireNew York, NY 10199-9543 New Jersey (ZIP Codes 080-084)Philadelphia, PA 19104-9597 (All other ZIP Codes)New York, NY 10199-9543 New MexicoSan Francisco, CA 94105-9602 New YorkNew York, NY 10199-9543 North CarolinaPhiladelphia, PA 19104-9597 North DakotaSt. Paul, MN 55101-9514 OhioPhiladelphia, PA 19104-9597 OklahomaAtlanta, GA 30304-9590 OregonSan Francisco, CA 94105-9602 PennsylvaniaPhiladelphia, PA 19104-9597 Puerto RicoNew York, NY 10199-9543 Rhode IslandNew York, NY 10199-9543 SamoaSan Francisco, CA 94105-9602 South CarolinaPhiladelphia, PA 19104-9597 South DakotaSt. Paul, MN 55101-9514 TennesseeAtlanta, GA 30304-9506 Texas (ZIP Codes 797-799)San Francisco, CA 94105-9602 (All other ZIP Codes)Atlanta, GA 30304-9506 UtahSan Francisco, CA 94105-9602 VermontNew York, NY 10199-9543 VirginiaPhiladelphia, PA 19104-9597 Virgin IslandsNew York, NY 10199-9543 WashingtonSan Francisco, CA 94105-9602 West VirginiaPhiladelphia, PA 19104-9597 WisconsinSt. Paul, MN 55101-9514 WyomingSt. Paul, MN 55101-9514 159.512 Opening Letters in Dead Letter Branches. Open dead letters at dead letter branches in an attempt to determine the name and address of the addressee or sender so his property may be delivered or returned. If the sender or addressee cannot be identified, observe the following retention periods: (1) Letters with enclosures of value, 1 year. (2) Other letters, none. 159.513 Disposition of Letters Containing Nonmailable Matter a. Nonmailable Lottery Matter Except Nonmailable Unsealed Foreign Lottery Matter. Destroy letters of domestic origin and sealed mail of foreign origin (see 115.231), lottery tickets, chance books, etc., only if nonmailable under 123.43. b. Unsealed Foreign Nonmailable Lottery Matter. Dispose of unsealed mail (see 115.232) of foreign origin that contains nonmailable lottery matter (see 123.43) in accordance with the following: (1) When the sender can be identified as the respondent in an outstanding foreign lottery order (see the Postal Bulletin ), the mail must be disposed of according to IMM 652.32; (2) When the sender cannot be so identified, forward a sample of the mailing to the Consumer Protection Division, Law Department, USPS Headquarters Washington, D.C. 20260-1112, for appropriate attention pursuant to 39 USC 3005. Withhold additional pieces of unsealed mail from the same sender for delivery pending publication of notice in the Postal Bulletin that a foreign lottery order has been issued against the sender, or until other instructions have been received from the Law Department. c. Other Nonmailable Matter. If the address of the sender (or addressee) is found, return the mailable contents to the sender (or forward it to the addressee) and destroy nonmailable matter. 159.52 Dead Parcel Branches 159.521 Establishment a. Policy. Dead parcel branches (DPBs) are established at selected post offices to serve designated bulk mail center (BMC) service areas. A DPB may serve one or more BMC and the post offices in their respective service areas (see the BMC section of the National Five-Digit ZIP Code Directory to determine the BMC service area to which a post office is assigned). A BMC and all post offices within its service area send dead parcels to their assigned DPB. If a post office is reassigned to another BMC, its dead parcel branch assignment then becomes the same as its new BMC. b. Dead Parcel Branches. Locations of dead parcel branches are: Atlanta, GA 30304-9506San Francisco, CA 94105-9501 New York, NY 10099-9543St. Paul, MN 55101-9514 Philadelphia, PA 19104-9597 c. Service Areas. The service areas are: Bulk Mail CenterDead Parcel Branch ] Bulk Mail CenterDead Parcel Branch AtlantaAtlanta, GA 30304-9506 ChicagoSt. Paul, MN 55101-9514 CincinnatiPhiladelphia, PA 19104-9597 DallasAtlanta, GA 30304-9506 DenverSt. Paul, MN 55101-9514 Des MoinesSt. Paul, MN 55101-9514 DetroitSt. Paul, MN 55101-9514 GreensboroPhiladelphia, PA 19104-9597 JacksonvilleAtlanta, GA 30304-9506 Kansas CitySt. Paul, MN 55101-9514 Los AngelesSan Francisco, CA 94105-9502 MemphisAtlanta, GA 30304-9506 New JerseyNew York, NY 10199-9543 PhiladelphiaPhiladelphia, PA 19104-9597 PittsburghPhiladelphia, PA 19104-9597 St. LouisSt. Paul, MN 55101-9514 Minneapolis/St. PaulSt. Paul, MN 55101-9514 San FranciscoSan Francisco, CA 94105-9502 SeattleSan Francisco, CA 94105-9502 SpringfieldNew York, NY 10199-9543 WashingtonPhiladelphia, PA 19104-9597 159.522 Opening Parcels. Open dead parcels at dead parcel branches in an attempt to determine name and address of the addressee or sender, so that property may be delivered or returned. If parcels are endorsed to show that they are the property of the U.S. Postal Service, or that the sender has refused to pay postage due on return as undelivered, the parcels are considered property of the U.S. Postal Service. a. Dead parcels are returned to the sender, or delivered to the addressee, when the opening of the parcel reveals the correct name and address of the addressee and the name and address of the sender is not found. The parcel is rated for collection of postage due at the zone rate from the dead parcel branch. b. If the sender or the addressee cannot be identified, hold Priority Mail (flats or parcels) and thirdor fourth-class mail containing valuables for 90 days. Also hold First-Class Mail not in the form of a letter, addressed to another country 90 days; if posted in violation of law or treaty, 6 months. (See IMM individual country listing prohibitions.) c. Prepare for disposal as soon as received loose-in-the-mail items, except for books and sound recordings, if neither the sender nor the addressee can be identified. 159.523 Disposal of Books and Sound Recordings. Books and sound recordings are disposed of by sale, except for those that may be withheld from sale for release to a publisher or distributor under the following conditions: a. A publisher or distributor may request, in the manner set forth below, that books and sound recordings bearing a particular trade name, company name, or other organizational identification, be released to the requester or to the requester's representative. The requirements for such a request are the following: (1) The requester must apply in writing to the general manager, Business Requirements Division, Office of Classification and Rates Administration, U.S. Postal Service (for address, see Address List in Appendices). (2) The request must include a statement that the requester is the publisher or distributor of the books and sound recordings bearing the listed trade name, company name, or other organizational identification. More than one trade name, company name, or other organizational identification may be listed in the same request. (3) The request must specify only one location where the books and sound recordings are to be picked up. The specific pickup facility may be changed at any time by submitting a written request to the general manager, Business Requirements Division. (4) After approval, a central file of requesters and the items specified for return is kept by the Business Requirements Division. All requesters receive confirmation of their requests. (5) An approval remains in effect for 5 years or until canceled in writing by either the requester or the Postal Service. b. A book or sound recording is not released to the requester even though it bears an applicable trade name, company name, or other organizational identification if it does not appear to be new, or was involved in the settlement of a postal indemnity claim, or if it is known that the requester was not the mailer or addressee. Such books are auctioned. c. A request for release of books or sound recordings is not granted whenever a written protest or a conflicting request from another party is presented to the general manager, Business Requirements Division. Books and sound recordings involved in such a dispute are sold at auction in the normal course of business, unless written notice from both parties advising of settlement of the dispute is received before the sale deadline. Both parties to a dispute are advised when a question over ownership occurs and when any settlement of the dispute is made. d. Upon approval of a request by the general manager, Business Requirements Division, facilities handling books and sound recordings establish separation to the maximum extent practicable. e. Release procedures at the point of customer mail entry (i.e., bulk mail center, post office, or detached mail unit) are as follows: (1) Books and sound recordings are released to requesters or their authorized representatives at a time and in a manner mutually agreeable between the requester and the Postal Service, consistent with the instructions in this section. (2) Failure of requester to pick up books and sound recordings within 15 days of written notification or on a previously scheduled release date results in return of the material to a dead parcel branch for auction and in the cancellation of the request. f. If the designated release facility has a dead parcel branch, the release procedures are the same as above. g. In order to pick up books and sound recordings at the designated facility, requesters or their representatives must present a letter from the requester authorizing the Postal Service to release such merchandise to the bearer. This letter of authorization must be executed in triplicate. Upon release of the merchandise, all copies of the letter of authorization are receipted in bulk by the person accepting delivery. One copy is given with the merchandise, one copy is mailed directly to the requester, and the original is retained by the released facility for 1 year. h. Books and sound recordings separated for return at a location other than a designated release facility are made up in individual shipments to the return point in packages, sacks, hampers, or other types of containers. Packages are as large as possible, subject to the weight and size limitations for fourth-class mail in 750. Each package is sent under a penalty label to the designated point of release (bulk mail center, post office, or detached mail unit). Sacks are subject to the 70-pound weight limitation. Hampers or other containers may be used if adequate security against pilferage can be maintained. Where hampers or other containers are used, arrangements must be made through the transportation management service center associated with the sending facility for suitable containment, labeling, movement, and security. i. When a request is canceled, the requester must be notified in writing by the dead parcel office, with a copy to the general manager, Business Requirements Division. A canceled request may not be renewed until 6 months after the date of cancellation. At that time, a written application must be resubmitted, which is treated as if it were a new request. Books and sound recordings on hand at the time of a cancellation are to be included in the next auction. 159.524 Disposal of Firearms and Ammunition a. Definition. The term "firearms" means any weapon by whatever name known, which is designed to expel a projectile or projectiles by the action of an explosive, and a firearm muffler or firearm silencer, or any part or parts of such weapon. b. Sale. Sell firearms, other than pistols, revolvers, short-barreled rifles or short-barreled shotguns, only to licensed firearms dealers. When there is an accumulation of these items, notify local firearms dealers of the intended sale of all items as a single lot, by sealed bid. Display the items and sell them to the dealer who submits the highest bid. 159.525 Disposal of Other Dead Parcels. Unclaimed items are disposed of by sale at auction. Hold auctions periodically and advertise them to the public. Obtain information regarding the conduct of auction sales from the manager of the dead parcel branch conducting the auction sale. 159.526 Postal Employees Ineligible to Purchase. Postal employees may not purchase directly or indirectly any dead parcel post matter. 159.53 Use of Dead Matter by the Postal Service. Withdraw items, other than the contents of mail which is sealed against inspection (see 115.231), from dead parcel branches only for official use by postal inspectors who must give memorandum receipts for the articles withdrawn. Keep these receipts on file in the dead parcel branch. Return them when the goods are returned for disposal as dead parcels. 159.54 Use of Dead Matter in Development of Postal Systems, Equipment, or Training a. General. Only bulk business mail which is undeliverable mail may be used for development and testing of postal equipment and systems or for training postal employees, in accordance with the requirements in 159.54b and 159.54c. Authorization must be obtained from the general manager, Business Requirements Division, Office of Classification and Rates Administration, U.S. Postal Service (for address, see Address List in Appendices). b. Submitting requests. Requests for authorization must be submitted in writing and must state (1) the purpose of the test or training and how the mail is to be used; (2) the type of undeliverable mail and volume required; (3) the period during which it is required; (4) the proposed source and arrangements for its delivery to the contractor or postal employee conducting the equipment test, or to the postal training facility; (5) the security to be provided while undergoing testing; and (6) arrangements for disposal of the mail at the end of the test or training. c. Information on Outside Cover. Regard as confidential the name and address and other information on the outside cover of undeliverable mail, and information about the contents of mail to the extent that such information may be associated with any particular customer (see 115.1, 115.21, 115.22, and 115.5). A private contractor or postal employee performing testing or training may not use the mail in any manner that permits any such confidential postal information to be disseminated or made available to anyone. This includes, but is not limited to, photographic or other reproductions or copies of the actual wording. While the mail, and reproductions or copies of the information on the cover of mail, may be used in test procedures or in training, they may not be included in reports or other material that may be disseminated outside of the Postal Service. 159.55 Treatment of Mail Forwarded From Dead Mail Branches a. Follow procedures below for delivery of returned dead mail. (1) Confidential Treatment. Treat this unsealed mail as if under seal. Maintain the strictest secrecy as to its contents. (2) Disposal if Undeliverable. If the mail cannot be delivered within a reasonable time after return from the dead mail branch, endorse the reason for nondelivery on the form which accompanies the mail. Return the mail and the form to the sending dead letter or dead parcel branch under the same class by which received. b. For registered mail (1) When received under registered cover, handle in the inquiry section or in some other section by an employee specifically designated by the postmaster. Do not allow the registry section to open and dispose of this mail. (2) If the address is supplied, register the item to the owner under the local registry number. (3) Enter the registry number on the form which accompanies the dead mail. File the form. (4) Register when forwarding or returning. 160 Philately 161 Policy 161.1 There is a single national policy governing the release, sale, and discontinuance of postage stamps and postal stationery. The policy is established by the Philatelic and Retail Services Department, U.S. Postal Service (for address, see Address List in Appendices). 161.2 The policy governing stamps and philatelic products is administered by the Office of Stamps and Philatelic Marketing. 161.3 Uniform application of policies provides a high degree of integrity for the entire program, and all post offices, postal employees, and contractors must comply with the policies set forth in this subchapter. The Postal Service must avoid the creation of philatelic rarities. 162 Purpose and Selection of Commemorative Stamps, Postal Stationery, and Philatelic Products 162.1 Purpose. Commemorative stamps and postal stationery (postal cards, embossed stamped envelopes, and aerogrammes) explain the cultural and historical heritage of the United States. They describe our Nation's achievements, portray the natural wonders of our country, instill pride in America, and focus attention on worthy causes, issues, and interests which are of national concern. The Postal Service encourages the widespread use of these stamps and stationery items to promote our national ideals, progress, and heritage. Commemorative stamps are not intended to replace regular stamps of the same class, but are provided upon request when available. 162.2 Selection. Subjects for commemorative postage stamps and postal stationery may be proposed by the public through correspondence to the Citizens' Stamp Advisory Committee. The Committee, which is composed of individuals from outside the Postal Service appointed by the Postmaster General, reviews suggestions and makes recommendations for commemorative stamps and postal stationery to the Postmaster General, who makes the final selections. Because the Committee works far in advance of actual stamp issuance, all proposals should be submitted at least 2 years prior to the desired issuance date. All suggestions should be forwarded to the Citizens' Stamp Advisory Committee, U.S. Postal Service (for address, see Address List in Appendices). 162.3 Philatelic Products. Philatelic products are produced and sold to expand interest in the hobby of stamp collecting by demonstrating both the fun and the informative value of stamps. 163 Distribution and Sale of Stamps, Postal Stationery, and Philatelic Products 163.1 Distribution 163.11 All post offices receive initial supplies of new-issue commemorative stamps without requisition. Philatelic products such as mint sets, stamp-collecting kits, etc., are distributed automatically to stamp distribution post offices. 163.12 Stamp distribution offices (SDOs) must: a. Establish a program for the distribution of new philatelic products and the replenishment of existing philatelic products to associate post offices. b. Ensure that less-than-bulk quantities of stamps are supplied to all post offices so they can be placed on sale in accordance with instructions issued in the Postal Bulletin. 163.13 Stamp distribution offices requiring additional philatelic products should requisition them from the regional accountable paper depository. 163.14 All other post offices must requisition philatelic products from their stamp distribution offices or usual sources of supply for less-than-bulk orders. 163.2 Requisitioning 163.21 The accountable paper custodian or other individual in charge of the stamp stock at each post office is responsible for requisitioning and maintaining an adequate inventory of stamps, postal stationery, and other philatelic products required for efficient and effective operation. This individual should periodically evaluate philatelic demand and, when necessary, forward a separate requisition to the normal source of supply for additional stock. All requisitioning must adhere to the procedures in Handbook F-1, Post Office Accounting Procedures, 420. 163.22 Accountable paper custodians should, when necessary, reduce the quantity of stamps received automatically to reduce costly overstocking and subsequent destruction. This is done by memorandum to the Bureau of Engraving and Printing for bulk quantities or to the Postal Data Center for less-than-bulk quantities. 163.23 The stamp distribution office accountable paper custodian should maintain a good working supply of stamps for sale in philatelic outlets, including plate blocks of $1 to $5 stamps. Stamp distribution office accountable paper custodians can requisition directly from the regional accountable paper depository. 163.24 The regional accountable paper depository is responsible for tearing into blocks those stamps with a denomination higher than $1, and disposing of partial sheets in accordance with Handbook F-1, 450. 163.3 Retail Sales 163.31 General. Stamps, postal stationery, and philatelic products are sold at various types of postal retail facilities which are described in this part. Most of these facilities have regular stamp windows or have been designated as stamp-collecting centers. Stamp-collecting centers sell the current commemorative stamps and philatelic products. Other post offices provide specialized philatelic services and sell the full range of stamps and philatelic products offered by the Postal Service. These facilities, as well as the Philatelic Sales Division, are referred to collectively as philatelic outlets. 163.32 Philatelic Centers. Philatelic centers are units separate from retail service windows. These centers display and sell all current postage stamps, postal stationery, and related philatelic products. Some philatelic centers are called Postiques, a registered Postal Service trademark. The Philatelic Sales Division, which handles mail order requests from collectors for stamps, stationery, and related products, is also a philatelic center. 163.33 Dedicated Philatelic Windows. A dedicated philatelic window is a lobby window designated to sell stamps and related philatelic products only. No other postal services are available at dedicated philatelic windows, which are to be identified so that customers desiring normal postal services are directed to other windows. The same items sold at philatelic centers are also sold at dedicated philatelic windows. 163.34 Temporary Philatelic Stations 163.341 Purpose of Participation. Post offices establish special temporary stations to provide philatelic services and to sell commemorative stamps and philatelic products. These stations may include specially constructed counters or mobile retail units. They are most frequently located at stamp shows, philatelic exhibitions, stamp dedications, state fairs, conventions, parades, or at other locations of activities of significant public or philatelic interest. 163.342 Requests for Participation. Requests for Postal Service participation at such events should be made by the sponsors or organizers to the local postmaster for initial action. Only requests for first-day-of-issue or other special support which must come from the national level should be directed to the Stamp Support Branch. All first-day ceremonies are conducted under the direction of the Stamp Support Branch. The payment of fees for space may not be authorized below the Headquarters level. Once a postmaster has agreed to participate in an exhibition, a unilateral withdrawal from such a commitment may not be made without the approval of the Philatelic Marketing Division, based upon a showing of good cause. 163.343 Authorization. Temporary philatelic stations may be authorized by the postmaster. Postmasters are authorized to participate at events where admission fees are charged by the sponsor; but, in these cases, the same cancellation used at the event must be available on request to those not attending the event. 163.344 Ceremonies. Postmasters and other local officials are encouraged to participate in opening ceremonies for stamp exhibitions or other stamp ceremonies arranged by philatelic groups, whether or not a temporary philatelic station has been authorized. 163.345 Announcement and Publicity a. Posters (1) An announcement of a temporary philatelic station and any show cancellation must be posted on the main post office lobby bulletin board and may be posted in other post offices within a 10-mile radius of the event so that collectors are advised of USPS participation. In case of larger shows, the posting may occur throughout the sectional center. (2) Posters should be placed on display at least 15 days before the event, but in no case more than 30 days before the event. (3) All announcements must emphasize the temporary philatelic station. The announcement should mention the name of the stamp show, pictorial or standard cancellation (if any), the dates and hours open to the public, and the location. Promotional material for the show itself must not be incorporated. b. Press Release. The postmaster should also announce through press releases to local newspapers the planned establishment of this station. The post office, however, must not distribute free flyers to homes, sell or distribute tickets, exchange ticket coupons, or authorize the use of post office facilities for direct show promotion. 163.346 Arrangements a. General. Postmasters should ensure that detailed planning begins well in advance of the show so that participation brings credit to the USPS and provides a wide range of stamps and philatelic products to collectors. Particular attention should be taken in selecting sales personnel who are knowledgeable about stamp collecting and who have retail experience. All clerks should be trained in philatelic sales and cancellation policies. b. Stamp Stock (1) Postmasters should obtain a wide range of philatelic products and current postage, using Form 3300 as a guide. Postmasters should prepackage sets of regular issues for sale to collectors. No stamp which has been withdrawn from sale by the Philatelic Sales Division may be sold by any philatelic station. Withdrawals are noted in the Postal Bulletin. (2) Postmasters should requisition philatelic stock not already available in their post offices from Regional Accountable Paper Depositories on Form 17, indicating quantity and for stamp show purposes. For stamp shows, stamps with denominations higher than $l may be requisitioned in plate blocks of four, as noted in 163.2. (3) At the conclusion of the show, excess philatelic stock, including remainders from commemorative sheets, would be sold at the regular windows for postage purposes. c. Philatelic Products. Postmasters should display and sell philatelic products such as commemorative mint sets, the Postal Service Guide to U.S. Stamps, and stamp collecting kits. d. Sales Restrictions. The sales policies regarding plate number blocks, marginal markings, and line markings on coil stamps are described in 163.532 and 163.533. e. Security and Facilities. Postmasters should ensure that sufficient security for the stamp stock is provided at the show site and that all other facilities are adequate. f. Appearance. Postmasters should ensure that the appearance of the temporary philatelic station brings credit to the Postal Service by using attractive signs and having space for satisfactory service. The hours when the station is open should be posted. g. Prompt Service. At those exhibitions where a large number of collectors are expected, postmasters should consider having a speedy line or customer numbers which can be distributed and announced so that customers do not have to wait to make their purchases. h. Cancellation Service (1) Cancellation service should be provided separately from stamp sales. A sufficient number of clerks should be available to provide speedy service. (2) Clerks should be trained in advance how to provide hand-stamped postmarks of philatelic quality. (Refer to 164.3 for cancellation regulations.) i. Sales Report. An exhibition sales report must be submitted to the Division Field Director, Marketing and Communications, within 1 week of the close of every station, showing both gross revenue and net revenue. 163.4 Mail Order Sales 163.41 The Philatelic Sales Division services mail orders for postage stamps of selected quality and other philatelic items. Customers may obtain an order form listing items available by writing to the Postal Service Philatelic Sales Division (for address, see Address List in Appendices). 163.42 Post offices may not fill mail orders for stamps and other philatelic items other than mail orders under the stamps-by-mail program and orders for local precancels. 163.43 Customers must furnish a self-addressed stamped envelope for return of precanceled stamps. 163.44 Postmasters may not order precancel devices solely to satisfy collector demands. 163.45 Philatelic centers and dedicated philatelic windows may accept and fill mail orders for special cacheted envelopes with cancellations authorized under 165.1. This section does not affect procedures outlined in 164.83 for purchase of newly issued stamps by cover servicers from the first-day-of-issue post office. 163.5 Sales Policies 163.51 New Issues. Only the post office or offices designated as the official first-day-of-issue office may sell a new item on the first day of sale. New issues are placed on sale at all other offices on the day after the first day of sale. 163.52 Regular Stamp Windows and Stamp-Collecting Centers 163.521 Commemorative Stamps a. It is the Postal Service's intent that all commemorative stamps be sold and none destroyed. b. Offices must place commemorative stamps on regular sale, holding aside only enough for the local philatelic demand. All supplies should be sold within 60 days after being placed on sale. After 60 days, clerks should sell all remaining commemorative stamps to customers in place of other sheet stamps. c. Commemorative stamps of local interest may remain on sale for a longer period, but in no case after the date of withdrawal from sale announced in the Postal Bulletin. 163.522 Plate Number Blocks/Marginal Markings (All Stamps) a. Definition. Plate number blocks are the stamps located on one corner of a pane of stamps with a plate number or numbers printed on the margin (selvage). Plate number blocks may include as few as four stamps, where a single number appears, or as many as 20, where multiple floating numbers and other marginal markings such as "Mr. ZIP" and "Notice of Copyright" appear. b. Setting Aside Plate Number Blocks. Clerks must break panes of stamps for regular sale purposes, as follows: (1) First, tear stamps from the edge of the panes farthest from the plate number or marginal markings in order to preserve the plate block for collectors. (2) Set aside quantities of plate blocks or marginal markings as panes are broken during regular sales transactions, but do not set them aside in advance. c. Minimum Purchase Requirements and Sales Limitations (1) When the clerk has a broken pane of stamps from which the plate block or other marginal marking has been sold, and when no plate block or other marginal marking has been set aside, the following minimum purchases must be made by a customer desiring the plate block or other marginal marking: DenominationMinimum Purchase $0.01 to $0.50Full marginal strip of stamps (two rows deep having all marginal markings) $0.51 to $0.99Half marginal strip $1.00 to $5.00Block of 4 stamps Exception: There are no minimum purchase requirements when a clerk has (a) only full panes of the requested stamp in stock or (b) a broken pane which contains the plate block or other marginal marking. (2) There are limitations to sales as follows: Each customer for whom a pane has been broken is limited to one marginal strip ($0.01 to $0.50), a half marginal strip ($0.51 to $0.99), or a block of four stamps ($1.00 to $5.00) for each stamp subject, per day. It is necessary to place a limit on individual sales of plate blocks and other marginal markings so that the stamp stock available at post office windows may accommodate as many collectors as possible each day. Customers requesting more than the maximum permissible purchase in denominations of the First-Class rate and below should be asked to inquire on another day. Customers requesting more than the maximum permissible purchase in denominations higher than the First-Class rate should be asked to inquire on another day or should be referred to the Philatelic Sales Division. d. Return of Unsold Stamp Stock. Broken panes of stamps without marginal strips and which exceed clerk requirements for regular stamp sales or use on parcel post should be returned to the main stamp stock. To return stock, the clerk must complete Form 17 in accordance with Handbook F-1, Post Office Accounting Procedures, 480. The returned stock must be redistributed in the following priority: (1) to fulfill stamps-by-mail requests, (2) to be used in locally prepared stamp packages for vending machines, and (3) to be sold at other regular stamp windows. After 30 days, any stock remaining unsold at regular stamp windows is returned (using Form 17) to the main stamp stock and handled according to Handbook F-1, 450. e. Exceptions to Sales Policies. The Office of Stamps and Philatelic Marketing may establish exceptions to the sales policies on selected stamp issues. Exceptions are announced in the Postal Bulletin. 163.523 Coiled Stamps. These offices may not open and break coils of stamps. Exception: Coils of new-issue stamps may be opened and sold in less than full coil quantities, subject to the following limitations: a. Sales of new-issue coiled stamps in less than full coils are restricted to a 1-month period, beginning with the authorized first day of sale for each particular stamp issue. b. These sales are further restricted to a single stamp window at each location designated by the postmaster to conduct such sales. c. Coiled stamps of fractional denomination must be sold in multiples which reach full-cent amounts. d. Stamps remaining in partial coils after expiration of the sales period are used for general postage, if practicable. 163.524 Precanceled Stamps. There is no limitation on the sale to collectors of sheet stamps or full coils of each of the precanceled denominations available. Purchases may be made in person or by mail by nonpermit holders for collection purposes only. Mail order requests must be accompanied by stamped, self-addressed envelopes for the return of the stamps purchased by the collector. Precanceled stamp policy is described in detail in 143. 163.525 Meter Stamps. Customers may buy meter stamps and postage-due meter stamps for philatelic purposes from post offices assigned meters. Meter stamps and postage-due meter stamps may not be issued for any amount less than the First-Class single piece rate of postage. Postage validator imprinter (PVI) strips are not meter stamps and may not be sold. 163.53 Philatelic Outlets 163.531 Commemorative Stamps. These offices may keep an issue on sale until a notice of its removal from sales at the Philatelic Sales Division is published in the Postal Bulletin. 163.532 Plate Number Blocks/Marginal Markings (All Stamps). The sales and disposition policies described in 163.522 apply, except as follows: a. Clerks may sell each customer one matched set of four marginal strips for any stamp in stock. b. There are no limitations on the sale of plate blocks of stamps having denominations from $1 to $5. c. The Philatelic Sales Division mail order section may, however, sell any quantity of marginal strips of stamps of issues having a face value above the First-Class letter rate. For issues having a face value at or below the First-Class letter rate, marginal strips are sold only when full panes are ordered. 163.533 Coiled Stamps. These offices may open coils of stamps as requested, except that coils having fractional denominations can only be sold in multiples which reach full-cent amounts. To guarantee receipt of a plate number on coils, the following minimum purchases are required: a. Bulk-rate denominations (when fractional) - minimum of 30 stamps; b. $1 - minimum of five stamps; c. All other denominations - minimum of 25 stamps. 163.534 Precanceled Stamps. The sales policy described in 163.524 applies, except that coils of precanceled stamps may be opened for the sale of individual stamps to collectors. 163.535 Stamp Credit (Accountability) a. General. Philatelic outlets should maintain a good working level of stamp stock, stationery, and philatelic products to meet the needs of collectors and encourage philatelic interest. Therefore, postmasters may maintain a postage stock of up to $125,000 for each philatelic outlet at their office. This stock may be in excess of normal authorized stock limits. (This does not apply to the Philatelic Sales Division.) b. Special Authorization. If operating requirements necessitate postage stock in excess of $125,000, written notification must be submitted to the appropriate regional director, marketing and communications, requesting special authorization. (1) The regional director, marketing and communications, with concurrence of the regional chief postal inspector, may authorize postage stock up to $250,000. If approved at the regional level, the request should be forwarded for Headquarters concurrence to the Stamp Marketing Division (for address, see Address List in Appendices). (2) The total amount of annual sales at the philatelic outlet must be included with any request for authorization to maintain a postage stock in excess of $125,000 for that outlet. Such requests are approved only when the total sales justify the increase in stock level. c. Stamp Credit (1) All clerks working in philatelic outlets are fully accountable for their own stamp credit. (2) It is the responsibility of the postmaster to provide adequate security equipment for secure storage of these credits at all times. 163.536 Inventory of Available Items. Updated lists on Form 3300 of items available at the Philatelic Sales Division are furnished periodically to philatelic outlets to guide them in maintaining a current inventory for collectors. All listed stamps must be maintained by permanent philatelic outlets, unless sold out and not available by requisition. 163.537 Stamp Packets. Stamps withdrawn from sale which are incorporated in philatelic products such as mint sets or collecting kits may be sold at philatelic windows, postal stores, stamp collecting centers, and the Philatelic Sales Division. 163.6 Stamp Withdrawals. Notices concerning stamp withdrawals are published in the Postal Bulletin and give effective dates for removing stamps from sale. On the effective withdrawal date, philatelic outlets must immediately return their supply of the withdrawn stamp to the main stamp stock, using a Form 17. The stock must then be redistributed to regular stamp windows for sale for a period of 30 days. After 30 days, any remaining stock is handled in accordance with Handbook F-1, Post Office Accounting Procedures, 450. 164 Cancellations for Philatelic Purposes 164.1 Definition and Policy 164.11 A postmark is a postal cancellation which contains the post office name, state, and ZIP Code and month, day, and year the canceling post office accepted custody of the material, except as provided in 164.71 and 164.74. Other postal markings are made by validators, obliterators, or special-purpose cancelers. 164.12 The Postal Service must endeavor to make all unusual postmarking service widely known to collectors through advance national publicity in order to avoid such postmarks being available only to small groups of people. 164.13 It is the policy of the Postal Service to prohibit the backdating of mail, except in the following cases: a. Postal operating requirements and public demand necessitate that cancellation commence prior to and continue after the date contained in the postmark. b. Damaged, defective, or missing cancellations or covers require replacements. c. All requirements for cancellations are met by customers but cancellations are not applied because of errors made by postal personnel. d. The general manager, Philatelic Sales Division, authorizes the backdating in writing. 164.2 Philatelic Postmarking 164.21 General. Postmarking for philatelic purposes is provided at the request of collectors or cover servicers for postmarking outside ordinary mail processing. This service requires special procedures and arrangements so that other postal operations and services are not interfered with or disrupted. It may involve hand-stamping requested either on a handback or mailback basis and may entail the holding of mail for cancellation. Before this specialized service can be provided, all its conditions must be met. As a free service, it is limited to transactions with fewer than 50 envelopes or other items. For 50 or more envelopes or other items, advance approval of the Philatelic Sales Division is required before service can be provided. 164.22 Cooperation With Collectors a. Employees should strive to furnish clear and legible postmarks to stamp collectors by ensuring that cancellation machines and hand-stamp devices are properly inked. Postal employees must give special attention to mail bearing an endorsement of philatelic value or to requests for light cancellations and should avoid canceling stamps by pen or illegible smudging; however, stamps must be canceled sufficiently to protect postal revenue. b. The Postal Service cannot provide special attention to a philatelic cover if it has been routinely entered into the mailstream by the sender. c. Postmarking devices may be used only under the supervision of authorized postal personnel, except that contractors who are working under an active contract with the USPS to cancel stamps also may use postmarking devices when and in the manner authorized by the contract. d. All hand-stamped postmarks must be made with black ink, unless the customer specifically indicates a preference for the color otherwise in use. e. Employees should exercise care in handling all philatelic covers to ensure that they are not damaged in mailhandling. These covers are generally identifiable by a design printed on the left side of the envelope. f. Postal employees should ensure that philatelic covers are not overcanceled, backstamped, marked "received this date," or otherwise defaced on front or back; used as a top piece in a bundle for destination package for labeling purposes; or bent, folded, mutilated, or damaged by rubber bands. 164.23 Handback and Mailback Service. Postmarks rather than other obliterations should be used to provide the following services whenever they are available: a. Handback Service (1) Post offices must honor requests for "handback" cancellation service where a customer personally presents an addressed or unaddressed envelope, postal card, or other item described in 164.73 to a postal clerk for cancellation with the current day's postmark and immediate return or hand back to the customer. (2) The envelope, card, or other item does not enter the mailstream. All such materials must bear uncanceled postage at the applicable First-Class rate. (3) So that service to other customers is not disrupted, there is a limit of 50 cancellations which can be provided for any single customer. (4) This service may be provided for special die hub or regular machine cancellations only if the particular cancellation machine is readily accessible to the postal clerk, where the providing of such service does not interfere with other sales or mail-processing operations, and does not inconvenience other customers. b. Mailback Service. Mailback service refers to that service authorized by the Philatelic Sales Division for stamp dealers and cover servicers which permits envelopes, cards, or other items submitted for cancellation to be returned in bulk through the mail. Conditions of this service are further described in 164.83. This form of mailback service must be approved in writing in advance by the Philatelic Sales Division. Mailback service must not be provided for special die hub or machine cancellations. 164.3 Permissible Cancellation Devices 164.31 Hand-Stamped Cancellations for Collectors. The following postmark devices may be used to provide hand-stamped cancellations for collectors: a. Standard cancellation with killer bars (Item 550)*viewer dmm185.pcx* . (NOT SHOWN) DMM185 b. Circular cancellation without killer bars*viewer dmm186.pcx* . (NOT SHOWN) DMM186 c. First-day-of-issue cancellation at the post office where an item is first issued.*viewer dmm187.pcx* (NOT SHOWN) DMM187 d. Bull's eye cancellation.*viewer dmm188.pcx* (NOT SHOWN) DMM188 e. Pictorial cancellation subject to conditions set forth in 164.42.*viewer dmm189.pcx* (NOT SHOWN) DMM189 164.32 Obliterators. The following devices are obliterators and may be used for philatelic purposes in cases where none of the postmarks or postmarking devices described in 164.31 is available: a. Validator stamp (also known as a registry stamp or round dater--Item 570). *viewer dmm190.pcx* (NOT SHOWN) DMM190 b. Parcel post canceler (Item 502).*viewer dmm191.pcx* (NOT SHOWN) DMM191 c. Rubber oval stamp (Item 0-681).*viewer dmm192.pcx* (NOT SHOWN) DMM192 d. Receiving or dating stamp (Item 552)*viewer dmm193.pcx* . (NOT SHOWN) DMM193 164.4 Types of Postmarks or Cancellations 164.41 First Day of Issue. These cancellations are provided by the post office when a philatelic issue is first placed on sale and are dated to show that day. They include both machineand hand-stamped cancellations. The words "First Day of Issue" appear in the killer bars. Requests for first-day cancellations must be postmarked no later than the date specified in the Postal Bulletin to qualify for service. Bull's eye cancellations are used when the conventional first-day-of-issue postmark does not cancel all the unused stamps on an item presented for postmarking. 164.42 Pictorial Cancellations. These cancellations are authorized to be used only at temporary philatelic stations and at other philatelic outlets. They must not be used at regular stamp windows for special local celebrations. Cancellations used are generally hand stamps, except when volume requires the use of a machine cancellation. They may be used only during the operation of the temporary philatelic station. Mail-order requests for such cancellations must be postmarked no later than 30 days after the date of the cancellation to qualify for service. A station may be authorized only one pictorial cancellation during its operation at an event. Different cancellations for each day of an event are authorized only for international philatelic exhibitions recognized by the Office of Stamps and Philatelic Marketing and held in the United States. 164.43 Special Die Hub Cancellations. Special die hub cancellations contain words relating to an event. These cancellations are applied by machine to live mail. Handback service may be provided only as described in 164.23a. Mailback (return in bulk) service must not be provided; but, cancellation can be provided on addressed envelopes or postal cards which are delivered to the addressee or addressees through mail delivery. Cancellations of philatelic quality are often not possible. 164.44 Standard Cancellations. Circular hand-stamped cancellations with or without killer bars may be provided upon request at post offices, stations, and branches. They are available every day the office is open for business. No slogan or pictorial material may be included. Mail requests for these cancellations must be at the post office offering the service on the date of the cancellation to qualify for service. 164.45 Flight Cancellations. These cancellations are made by regular cancellation equipment or by hand stamp, depending on volume (see 164.6). 164.46 Regular Machine Cancellations. Post offices may not machine-cancel mail with the regular postmark when the envelopes are unaddressed or when the customer requests handback service, except as described in 164.23a. Mailback (return in bulk) service must not be provided, but cancellations can be provided on addressed envelopes or postal cards which are delivered to the addressee or addressees through mail delivery. 164.5 First Day of Issue 164.51 First-Day Sale. A particular post office or postal facility is usually designated to have the exclusive sale of a new issue on the day it is issued. No other postal facility may begin general sale of the new issue until the following day. For purposes of this section, the word "issue" means postage stamp, stamp booklet or booklet pane, postal card, stamped envelope, or aerogramme. 164.52 Notification. New stamps and other philatelic issues are announced by notices displayed in post office lobbies, in the Postal Bulletin, and through news releases distributed to the press and philatelic periodicals. 164.53 First-Day Covers a. Definition. A first-day cover is an envelope, postcard, or other item of reasonable dimension bearing a new stamp or booklet pane or a new postal card, a new stamped envelope, or a new aerogramme canceled with a die reading "First Day of Issue" and showing place and date of first-day sale. b. Procedures. Customers who want first-day cancellations of new stamps have two options. (1) Buy stamps at local post offices, affix them to their own envelopes, and mail the stamped envelopes to the postmaster at the city of issuance for cancellation. Preferential service is accorded covers on which collectors have affixed their own stamps. (2) Submit envelopes with proper remittance to cover the cost of the stamps desired. The Postal Service affixes and cancels the stamps, except as indicated in 164.53d. Payment must be made by money order or cashier's, certified, or personal check payable to the U.S. Postal Service. Orders containing personal checks are held until the checks have cleared. Cash, uncanceled postage stamps, and foreign coins and currency are not accepted; any orders containing such payment are returned unserviced. All covers must bear addresses to the right side of the envelope and at least 5/8 inch up from the bottom of the envelope. Requests must be postmarked no later than the date specified in the announcement to qualify for cancellation service. Covers must not be returned in outer envelopes, even when furnished by collectors, because to do so impedes operating efficiency. c. Requirements. Envelopes submitted by collectors must be of ordinary letter size and must be properly addressed. Collectors should place a filler of postal card thickness in each envelope, and either turn the flap in or seal it. If applicable, collectors should put a pencil notation in the upper right corner of each cover to show the position and number of postage stamps to be placed there. d. Unacceptable Covers. The issuing post office must not provide cancellation service on covers submitted through the mail which are unaddressed or bear stamps issued after the issue date and before the submittal cutoff date, or bear previously canceled stamps; nor may the post office provide handback service on any items presented after the first day of issue. These restrictions can be waived only by written authorization of the Philatelic Sales Division. e. Bulk Orders. The post office servicing first-day covers does not accept from any one customer more than 50 envelopes requiring that stamps be affixed. When more than 50 envelopes are submitted, they must be returned unserviced to the customer, with a statement that service is to be provided upon resubmittal of no more than 50 stamped envelopes. Care must be taken to prevent customers from avoiding this rule by placing multiple smaller orders. Customers desiring cancellations on more than 50 covers must buy and affix their own stamps to their envelopes. f. Hand-Stamped Cancellations. Hand-stamped cancellations are applied at the first-day ceremony location, at the main office windows of the first-day post office, and on covers which cannot be fully canceled by postal cancellation machines. In all other cases, machine cancellations are supplied, except as provided in 164.83. g. Handback Service. Handback service for first-day cancellations is limited to the first day of issue. Material to be canceled must be presented to the main office window of the first-day post office. h. Mail Orders for Mint Stamps. The first-day post office may not accept mail order requests for uncanceled stamps from customers outside their service area, except for cover servicers as provided in 164.83a. i. Cancellation Deadlines. Deadlines for submitting less than 50 covers for first-day-of-issue cancellations are established by the Stamp Support Branch. Cancellation deadlines for submitting bulk orders (more than 50 covers) are established by the general manager, Philatelic Sales Division. Any exceptions to the deadline dates must be specifically authorized by the general manager, Philatelic Sales Division.