Precancel devices were used to cancel stamps before they were affixed to the mail. Linear Postcancel devices are not precancel devices, as they were used to cancel stamps after they were affixed to mail. These cancel impressions were not designed to fit completely on definitive issues, like precancels do. This Linear Postcancel Catalog is a record of what has been found and reported, and is a work in progress. Each reference document and each state can be downloaded and printed for your use.
Please read the Introduction to the Families of devices recorded in this catalog.
The LPC Type numbering system is distinct from the PSS system, in that it has a single digit Family, a decimal point, and two basic digits following. Note that the numbers apply the same to each device Family. They focus on the text within the device.
Please examine the single Root Styles page to see the basic idea behind the system.
As needed, as many as four more digits are used to distinguish a type by its characteristics. In this system, each number after the decimal point has a meaning, as defined in the Type Number Key. A Postcancel Type Number can be determined for a cancel, using as few digits as necessary.
Please examine the two page Type Number Key and try it with an example you may have.
Pick any state to see Types illustrated with their Type Numbers identified. As with precancels, a certain type is often found from many towns. Lots of type numbers will gradually become familiar, as can be seen in the alphabetical listing of Towns which follows in each state.
If you any questions or information about Linear Postcancels which are not included in the catalog, please send them to Bruce Chisholm at Scans of stamps are preferred if you can include them.
The Western Half
Please read the Foreword, which gives credit for the progress to date.
You’ll need these Notes to explain the abbreviations in the Type and Town listings.
Western States:
| State | State | State | State |
| Alaska | Arizona | California | Colorado |
| Hawaii, Guam, Samoa | Idaho | Montana | Nevada |
| New Mexico | Oregon | Utah | Washington |
| Wyoming |
Midwestern States:
| State | State | State | State |
| Illinois | Indiana | Iowa | Kansas |
| Michigan | Minnesota | Nebraska | North Dakota |
| Ohio | Oklahoma | South Dakota | Texas |
| Wisconsin |
Southeastern States:
| State | State | State | State |
| Alabama | Arkansas | Florida | Georgia |
| Kentucky | Louisiana | Mississippi | Missouri |
| North Carolina | Puerto Rico/ Virgin Islands | South Carolina | Tennessee |
| Virginia | West Virginia |
Northeastern States:
| State | State | State | State |
| Connecticut |
Helpful Related Links:
- Jim Forte’s Post Office List: Useful search feature to determine PO from partial cancel
- US Postal Bulletins: All of them available online to search and read
- PMCC: Post Mark Collectors Club