The history behind the word for stamp collectors, “philatelist,” is rather charming. Derived from the Greek words for love (philos) and tax exemption (ateleia), it’s bound to the early history of postage stamps, which placed the burden of payment for a letter or package on the sender rather than the recipient. Where receiving mail had once been a hassle, often representing an unexpected payout to the carrier lest they hold your letter hostage, it now became a source of childlike joy. Here’s a gift; you owe nothing for it.

That might be the most interesting thing you learn today. Paul Salomon’s Stamp Swap sure won’t beat it.

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