March 21, 2025 - March 23, 2025

History of the Saint Louis Stamp Expo

In 1993, David M. Kols had an idea that St. Louis needed to bring back a premier annual philatelic stamp show that was worthy of Saint Louis’ place in philatelic history. Having been the home of the 1st American Philatelic Society President, John K. Tiffany, St. Louis collectors have played important roles in the growth and success of the hobby, and the APS. St. Louis was the host city for the APS National Convention in 1889, 1919, 1927, 1956, and 1995.

To build a premier stamp show in St. Louis, Kols knew that he would need the support of many volunteers from the vast St. Louis area stamp clubs. He solicited help from his business, Regency-Superior Auctions, the Belleville Scott Air Force Base Stamp Club, Greater Saint Louis Stamp Club (now the Greater Mound City Stamp Club), McDonnell Douglas Stamp Club, Monsanto Stamp Club, Mound City Stamp Club, Southern Illinois Stamp Club, Webster Groves Stamp Club, and other individuals. With the success Kols had in obtaining support for the show, he became the show’s Executive director, which he held for 25 years. The first St. Louis Stamp Expo was held on Oct. 1-3, 1993 at the Frontenac Hilton Hotel, 1335 South Lindbergh Blvd., Saint Louis, MO 63131.

Each year the show has been the host to Philatelist from around the world, offering; the regions only APS World Series of Philately show since 1998, Exhibitions, stamp bourse, hosts to other philatelic societies meetings, youth education programs, and an awards banquet.

Thanks to the following individuals for contributing artifacts, information, and their memories of the Saint Louis Stamp Expo:

Alan Barasch
Nathan Esbeck
Vera Felts
Penney Kols
Amanda Morganstern
Tom Minor
Larry Weisz
Wayne Youngblood

Learn more about
Saint Louis Stamp Expo

Programs
Event Covers
Buttons
Awards and Palmares
Committee
Auctions*
Education*
First Day Events*

* under construction