Atmospheric conditions in the Canal Zone are a problem to the postal authorities there in shipping stamps to philatelic customers, a problem to insure that mint stamps will reach their destinations in prime condition.  It is a matter to which they give serious attention, and W. L. Howard, postmaster at the Philatelic Agency, at Balboa Heights, informs me that they are now dusting the gum side of stamps with unscented talcum powder, widely practiced by collectors in tropical climates to prevent the gum from sticking.  The department is anxious that all stamps reach their patrons in good condition and this is one method they are employing to achieve satisfactory results.
 

- George B. Sloane
Sloane's Column
Stamps
December 2, 1939

 Posted August 25, 1999