Translation Service

Please note that the Translation Service is temporarily suspended due to the February, 2008 death of our translation chairman. 

Because the VPS is affiliated with the American Philatelic Society, our members can obtain free or low-cost translations of philatelic material (letters, articles, cancellations, inscriptions on stamps, etc.) through the APS Translation Service.  Almost anything philatelic can be translated from almost any major language.

Nominal Fees

Short translations are generally provided at no charge, although in some cases a small fee may be assessed.  Fees for difficult, lengthy, or complex translations must be negotiated directly with the Translation Service; the requesting member will be advised of the price before translation is begun.  (One way to expedite the process is to agree in advance to pay all charges up to a stated limit. Translation will not proceed if the charges will exceed that limit.)  Members using checks to pay for services must make the checks payable to an individual.  Banks will not cash checks made out to the service.

Postage Charges

All postage charges on translations must be paid by the member requesting the translation. As a general rule, three times the postage necessary to send the translation should be enclosed to cover all forwarding and return postage requirements. Requests can not be processed until postage is provided.

Sending Your Request

Please remember that the Translation Service is offered to VPS/APS members only.  Translation requests submitted by non-members will not be honored.

Do not send original material unless it is impossible to make clear photocopies. If it is necessary to send an original document, send it either by registered or insured mail.  Remember to enclose sufficient forwarding postage and supply your VPS membership number.  All materials for translation or inquiries about the service should be sent directly to the Chairman of the Translation Committee.