GB547379A - Improvements relating to postal envelopes - Google Patents

Abstract

547,379. Reply envelopes. WADE, W. L. Oct. 8, 1941, No. 12973. [Class 146 (ii)] A reply envelope 1 has a closing flap 2, covering substantially the whole of the envelope and weakened only along a line about midway between the edge and the fold 7, the part 3 remote from the hinge being gummed. The weakening may consist of a row of perforations 4. The envelope on first use has the flap tucked in, on second use the flap is gummed down and slit along line 4 when opened and on third use the flap remnant is again tucked in. One or both lateral edges of the flap are slightly cut away so that the postage stamp seals the ungummed part. The envelope may have an additional narrow flap 12, Fig. 2, which is retained in place during the first use by light gumming or by engagement with the side flaps of the envelope. This flap 12 may be tucked in on a later use or it may be torn off after first use, merely carrying the first stamp. The flap 12 may be divided by slits at rightangles to the fold 7, the centre section 16, Fig. 7, being used for first use and the end sections 16a, 16b for third use. The gumming 2 may be extended along the side edges to prevent pilfering. An additional flap may be formed by an extension of the envelope wall. Adhesive, which may be selfsealing, may be provided along the envelope and flap 2 near the fold to prevent pilfering, being stopped short of the edges to facilitate opening. The invention may be applied to window envelopes.