Labels described as “DAV stamps” are generally fundraising seals, address-label material or collectibles—not U.S. postage stamps.

Do not mail with an uncertain DAV label as postage. A veterans organization can distribute stamp-shaped seals without being a postal issuing authority.

Why the name causes confusion

Fundraising mail often includes small gummed or adhesive labels. Collectors and sellers may call these “stamps” because of their shape. DAV’s own history describes direct-mail fundraising materials, including address labels that replaced an earlier identification tag program in 1967. That history explains the object; it does not grant postal value.

Identification workflow

  1. Read the issuer name and every line of text.
  2. Look for a U.S. postal denomination or service inscription.
  3. Search an official USPS issue record, not only auction listings.
  4. Check whether the item came with a donation appeal or address-label sheet.
  5. Classify it as postage, fundraising seal, address label, membership item or unknown.
  6. Record the source and confidence; never infer validity from gum or perforations.

Can DAV seals be collected?

Yes. Fundraising seals can document veterans’ advocacy, design and direct-mail history. Their collectible status is separate from postal validity. Preserve the accompanying letter or sheet because context may identify the date and campaign. Value depends on demand, rarity, condition and provenance.

What to use on mail

Use genuine, valid U.S. postage in the required amount. Decorative or charity seals should not obscure the address, postage, cancellation or barcode areas. For other nonpostal labels, see what poster stamps are.

Sources and review note

Reviewed August 31, 2026. Postal products, prices and rules can change; verify current USPS guidance before mailing or buying.