If You Get A Letter With An Upside Down Stamp In North Dakota, This Is What It Means
We have very few, if any, reasons to send hand-written letters these days; computers and cell phones have pretty much eliminated the need for them.
That said, if you do get at a letter and happen to notice the stamp is upside down, you should know that it's possible this was done for a reason, not on accident.
According to Philatelic Database, where you put a postage stamp and how you position it on a letter holds different meanings. The source says an upside-down stamp is an old-school way to say, "I love you." Oftentimes, people would do this if they sent a letter to someone who is overseas in the military. Cute, right?
The Secret Language Of Stamps
Now, it’s not just the direction of the stamp; it's also where on the envelope the stamp is placed.
If it’s upside down, in the right corner, that means “Write no more."
The source also says if it’s upside down and in line with the surname, that means “I am engaged."
According to wearethemighty.com, this practice, having coded messages through the placement of stamps, is more than a century old. The origins of this are said to have been traced back to the Victorian era.
Some Other Placements That Have Hidden Meanings:
Tilted at a right angle, in the top right corner means "Do you love me?"
Tilted at a right angle, in the top left corner means "I hate you."
Tilted upright, in the top right corner, means "I desire your friendship."
Centered on the right edge means "Write immediately."
Center of the envelope at the bottom means "No."
Center of the envelope at the top means "Yes."
If I ever get around to writing a letter to someone, I might want to try this secret code. Maybe I will find myself a prison pen pal. Just kidding.
You are supposed to be putting the stamp in the top right corner with the stamp upright, but according to MentalFloss.com, the post office probably won't get rid of your letter if this is not done properly.
That said, it will likely slow the mailing process if the stamp isn't placed properly.
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Gallery Credit: Andi Ahne