overflow tank/reservoir

Why do you even need one? My radiator fluid stays at the same level all the time.
So your proper fill level is a inch or so below full radiator. Is that air causing rust? Recovery tank prevents that embarrassing belch from a overfilled radiator and keeps the radiator completely filled.
At a glance I know I haven't lost any coolant, there's no oil or rust in it. I don't know how long its been since I removed the radiator cap.