1. Wove Paper
Wove paper is made by forming the pulp on a wire cloth, resulting in a uniform texture. It is further categorized into hard wove paper and soft wove paper. Hard wove paper is stiffer and whiter, while soft wove paper has a looser weave and appears more porous. The choice between hard and soft wove paper can affect the stamp's value and identification.
2. Laid Paper
Laid paper has a textured surface with parallel lines created during the papermaking process. This texture is visible when the paper is held up to the light. Laid paper was commonly used in the early days of stamp production but has become less common in modern times.
3. Watermarked Paper
Watermarked paper includes a design or pattern embedded into the paper during the manufacturing process. Watermarks are used as a security feature to prevent forgery and to identify the paper's origin. Collectors often use special tools like watermark detectors to examine these features.
4. Rag Paper
Rag paper is made from cotton fibers and is known for its durability and strength. It was commonly used for higher-value stamps and revenue stamps. The presence of rag fibers can sometimes be detected by examining the paper under magnification.
5. Modern Synthetic Papers
In recent years, some postage stamps have been printed on synthetic papers made from materials like plastic or polymer. These papers offer enhanced durability and resistance to water and tearing, making them suitable for stamps that need to withstand harsh conditions.
Each type of paper has its own unique characteristics and historical significance, making them an important aspect of philately. Collectors often study the paper type to better understand the stamp's origin, authenticity, and value.