Are any other collectors becoming frustrated with the ever growing proliferation of new releases from many countries? It seems that postal authorities are becoming more and more concerned about profits than issuing stamps on a needs basis. In 1977 there were 27 US stamps issued with a face value of $3.51 How many stamps and at what cost to the collector are issued each year now? The trend is almost universal. In New Zealand in 1977 it cost NZ$8.82 to purchase the 28 stamps and minisheets. 30 years later the cost was NZ150.75 for 113 stamps and minisheets. To make matters worse we have all the variations of sizes, perfs, self adhesive etc. Is it any wonder that many collectors at my local stamp club have decided on cut-off dates for their collections of many countries. Unfortunately some, like me, are hooked but frustrated by the costs.