Arago: People, Postage & the Post

Smithsonian National Postal Museum

Arago is your resource to the study of philately and postal operations as seen through the National Postal Museum's collection.

Named after Francois Arago (19th century French scientist and friend of James Smithson), our website upholds his philosophy that knowledge can be shared through the technology of the day.

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Philately

Objects that chronicle the evolution and history of U.S. stamp design and production; and the postal administration that controlled their issuance and use.

Postal Operations

Objects that chronicle the development of the U.S. postal system and the vital role mail plays in our daily lives.

Exhibits

Special histories told through selected assemblages of museum objects and exceptional private collections. View all Exhibits

FEATURED EXHIBIT

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