DIGITAL COLOR POSTMARKS

In 2005, the USPS began creating colored First Day Cancels, called Digital Color Postmarks (DCP).  A DCP cancels the stamp using a color digital printer instead of a traditional machine or hand cancel.  They’re only used on the First Day of Issue.  The color DCPs create striking First Day Covers.  But many collectors don’t even know about these special cancels!

DCPs are larger and fancier than standard Pictorial cancels – sometimes a small picture.  (US #5455