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As with watermarks, all of these various kinds ofspecial paper were introduced as safeguards againstcounterfeiting. Almost all have been discarded by gov-ernments issuing stamps although the watermark is stillused extensively. Generally speaking, such counterfeiting as has beendone has been directed toward swindling collectors.There are very few instances on record where stampshave been counterfeited to swindle governments. Someinstances of defrauding a government have, of course,been noted — for instance, the so-called "Chicago" coun-terfeit of the United States two-cent stamp. The counter-feits of these were printed in sheets, just like those madeby the Government, and sold to users of mail who didnot know they were counterfeit. Of course, the personsactually buying the stamps either knew or could suspectthat they were counterfeit but the firms themselves thatused the stamps had no knowledge. To market counter-feits of this sort it is necessary to involve mail clerks offirms using large quantities of stamps, and not only is thepractice dangerous to the counterfeiter, who can neverbe sure that he will not be exposed, but also the returnsare rather negligible for the risk and work involved.Hence, the fear of large-scale frauds against the Govern-ment, which were of such concern to officials during |
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