| In the world of stamp collecting, a mint is a | | | | the poignancy highlighted in the very different |
| postage stamp that has never been used (no | | | | ages and background of the ladies. |
| postal duty) and therefore has never been | | | | A single mint was issued on 31st August 2007 to |
| cancelled. Some collectors may refer to a stamp | | | | mark their first meeting which was in February |
| as being "mint" simply if it has never been hinged | | | | 1992 at Mother Teresa's convent in Rome. |
| or where the gum has not been disturbed. | | | | Mint issues can come in all shapes in sizes including |
| With all things considered, generally speaking, the | | | | fun cartoon and film characters such as Disney |
| true meaning of mint stamps are worth more | | | | varieties, commonwealth varieties and even Harry |
| than used ones. However, some collectors prefer | | | | Potter! Some collectors are lucky enough to |
| them to be used and in some cases, actually | | | | obtain very old mint stamps in excellent condition, |
| forge a cancellation. Mints may be issued in honour | | | | these, depending on demand, can reach high |
| of a person/place/event similar to the | | | | values among seasoned collectors. |
| commemorative stamp. | | | | Mint stamps can be very valuable as with many |
| One particular mint issue of note was dedicated | | | | other types so it is crucial to keep them safe |
| to Mother Teresa of Calcutta and Diana, Princess | | | | from harm in a stamps album. Preferably using an |
| of Wales. This collaboration was due to the similar | | | | acid-free album, you can keep your stamps in |
| wishes of both women to help those suffering, | | | | impeccable condition for many years. |