The Boston 2026 World Expo, America’s next international philatelic exhibition, is calling on collectors to donate off-paper stamps for use in welcome packets and the youth and beginners’ areas during the highly anticipated event.
Michael Lawson, the expo’s chief financial officer, is leading the initiative in collaboration with the Spellman Museum of Stamps and Postal History. Reflecting on the success of the 2016 World Stamp Show in New York, Lawson noted, “World Stamp Show-NY 2016 collected roughly three million stamps for free giveaways in a variety of ways. We are again counting on the philatelic community to show their generosity and desire to promote the hobby by donating common, unwanted duplicates we all have an abundance of to our show.”
To put the magnitude of three million stamps into perspective, Google’s Gemini artificial intelligence system calculated that a stack of such stamps would span 2,500 feet—nearly half a mile—or approximately the height of a 200-story building.
Collectors are encouraged to donate any quantity of stamps, whether mint or used, but all contributions must be off-paper and, if possible, sorted into U.S. and non-U.S. categories. On-paper stamps should be soaked before mailing. Stamp clubs are invited to organize soaking and collection events to gather donations. Dealers with surplus stock, even hundreds of the same stamp, are also welcome to contribute.
Glassines and tongs are appreciated additions to the donations. As a 501(c)(3) organization, Boston 2026 donations may be tax-deductible, with confirmation of receipt provided upon request.
Donations can be sent to:
Spellman Museum of Stamps and Postal History
Attn: Michael Lawson/Boston 2026
Regis College
241 Wellesley Street
Weston, MA 02493
Donors should include a note with an email address to receive confirmation.
The Boston 2026 World Expo will take place from May 23-30, 2026, at the Boston Convention & Exhibition Center. It promises to be a major event on the philatelic calendar, drawing collectors, exhibitors, and enthusiasts from around the world.
For more information and updates, visit Boston2026.org or follow the expo on Twitter and Facebook. Collectors can also sign up for the Boston 2026 email list to receive the latest news and details.