15 companies want to make next generation mail truck: Morning Report

Linn's Stamp News gives you a quick look at what's going on in the world of stamp-collecting.

1. New mail trucks

The U.S. Postal Service gets all sorts of harsh coverage in the mainstream media these days about its financial situation, but it's not all doom and gloom.

The Wall Street Journal reports that 15 different companies are interested in providing the USPS with a new mail truck, including auto industry mainstays GM, Fiat-Chrysler and Nissan, as well as electric vehicle startups and a company that makes drones. 

"Fifteen suppliers have been qualified in teh first leg of a competition that could be worth $5 billion over several years, according to the U.S. Postal Service," The Journal reports.

The USPS is aiming to test prototypes next year, begin production in 2017, and have the first of the new trucks in service by 2018.

2. Stamp-collecting guide to Paris

"As the capital of France, the charming city of Paris has much to offer. For stamp collectors, many philatelic events and exhibitions are held in Paris regularly, most notably the biannual Paris Salon du Timbre."

3. Stamp Market Tips

"The first Brazilian stamp issue, the Numeral stamps of Aug. 1, 1843 (Scott 1-3), is in high demand at the moment. These are known to collectors as the Brazilian Bull’s-Eye stamps."

4. Yesterday's most-viewed post

U.S. Postal Service reveals World Stamp Show stamp design

5. Something social

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U.S. Postal Service reveals World Stamp Show stamp design

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