Collecting History: 125 Years of the National Philatelic Collection December 28, 2011

The National Philatelic Collection celebrates its 125th anniversary in 2011, making it the oldest intact national stamp collection in the world. 'Collecting History' remembers a few of the hundreds of donors who have given their collections to the Smithsonian for the benefit of the nation. It explores the decisive role of twelve successive curators in developing the national collection and exhibiting it to the public. Lastly, it invites you to consider the importance of this national treasure and reflect on what the material within it can teach us about world cultures and the American experience.