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Have you ever noticed the banner heading on the front cover of Vatican Notes? It states that the quarterly journal is published by the Vatican Philatelic Society (VPS), "The only society devoted exclusively to Vatican City and Roman States philately." This same phrase appears on the homepage and members-only section of the VPS website. As a society, the Vatican Philatelic Society is a group of individuals who share a common interest in philately—the collection, examination, and study of postal-related items such as stamps, postal covers, and postmarks. For VPS members, this typically means philatelic items related to Vatican City and the Roman States. Admittedly, most VPS members find it easier to engage with Vatican City philately, as the Roman States remain a lesser-known area for many. Philatelic study has evolved significantly since the Vatican Philatelic Society was founded in 1953. Today, VPS members are less focused on technical details like stamp perforation counts and more interested in discussing the historical significance of the stamp imagery. Likewise, postmarks are viewed less as tools for understanding mail routing or time travel and more as a form of social messaging through artistic design. The presentation of philatelic materials has also shifted—from traditional 8.5 x 11-inch printed formats to digital screen displays. Ultimately, philatelic discussions depend on dedicated VPS members—volunteers who write articles and create presentations. The society can only maintain its status as "the only society devoted exclusively to Vatican City and Roman States philately" if its members actively engage with topics related to Vatican and Roman States philately. Otherwise, the banner slogan risks becoming just a printed tradition rather than a true representation of the society's purpose. With that in mind, all VPS members are encouraged to join the VPS website Chat Room and participate in discussions about philately, especially in relation to Vatican City and the Roman States. |
