Coins and Paper Money -> Paper Money: US -> Colonial Currency

If you are interested in collecting paper money, Colonial money is one of the hottest tickets going right now. When the first US colonies were formed, the nation and its currency system were still in their infancy. It was decided that paper money would be used, and gradually, currency was printed and distributed for use. Today, colonial money is usually worth much more than its face value, provided that it is original and not a reproduction. Here are some tips on how to tell whether or not you have an authentic piece of colonial history.

1. Check the Signature

Colonial money was always designed to have at least one signature on the note. You may need to look carefully to determine whether or not a signature is present, but if you can’t find even one, chances are you may be dealing with a reproduction. The color of the signature should be in red ink.

2. Is it Numbered?

Colonial money was always numbered to help them keep track of how many bills were in circulation. Once again, if you are dealing with an authentic note the ink color will be red and the number will be very noticeable. Age made have faded the note slightly, but you should be able to tell that the ink was once a red color.

3. Look at the Writing

Typically, colonial money featured a handwritten signature, and some bills may have other handwriting on them as well. This is actually quite important, and is a big clue to the authenticity of the note. If the handwriting is the in the same color as the rest of the bill, there is a very high chance that you are in fact dealing with a reproduction.

4. Look for the Stamp

In most cases, reproductions that are intended merely for home use will carry a stamp that says “facsimile.” This is done to help people get a better idea of the colonial money that was used, but they are not intended to be collector items. While some reproductions may not have this stamp, the majority should.

5. Find the Watermark

Even in the height of the colonial period, when technology still was struggling, watermarks were added to bills to help determine whether or not they were authentic. You can use that same watermark to help you determine whether or not you have authentic colonial money on hand. Hold the bill up to a light source to see if you can spot the watermark. If you can’t chances are you have a reproduction.

6. Take it to an Expert

If you plan on investing in a colonial money note, it is best to have it examined by an expert to determine the authenticity of the note. They will be well versed in the different types of ink, the different plates that were used, as well as how real colonial money should look. There is no substitute for getting an expert’s opinion, especially if you will be investing in colonial money.

Photo Credits: woody1778a

Originally posted 2008-09-11 14:00:01. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Stamps -> Worldwide -> Postal History

If you are interested in stamp collecting as more than just a hobby, it is important to focus on finding valuable stamps. These are the ones that will enhance your personal collection and provide you with a solid investment that you can count on. In addition to their value as a collector’s item, valuable stamps are also fun to find since many of them are quite rare. If you’re ready to start getting serious about stamp collecting, here are some of the most valuable stamps to look for.

1. Queen Victoria Stamps

The Queen Victoria stamps that were produced during her reign are some of the most valuable you can find. Look for the ones that still have their original gum on the back. These were the first stamps to actually have an adhesive, so they are worth more. The most valuable stamps from this era are the ones that are still in very good condition, without any rips or tears.

2. Famous President Stamps

The United States may not have monarchs, but we do have famous presidents and their faces grace some of the most valuable stamps. Abraham Lincoln stamps are very popular and many of these are worth several thousand dollars. The majority of the older stamps from this era do not have adhesive, but if you can find some that have not been circulated, they are incredibly valuable. Once again, you’re going to want to look for the ones that are in the best condition.

3. Colonial Stamps

Stamps that were made during the colonial period in the United States are considered to be very valuable stamps, but this also extends to other countries. For example, stamps produced in the French colonies are very valuable, especially the ones from Polynesia. These are quite often red, green or brown and although the colors may be faded, they are still worth a lot of money.

4. Duck Stamps

Duck stamps are a type of stamp that is produced in the United States and the proceeds of sales go to benefit wildlife funds. Although these cannot be used for mailing letters, they are valuable stamps in a large part due to their stunning artwork. Every year, new Duck Stamps are released, and artists submit their work for consideration to be on the new stamp. The Duck Stamps from the first few years of this program are very valuable stamps.

5. Stamps from Turbulent Times

Stamps that were produced during revolutions, wars and uprisings are considered to be among the most valuable stamps, simply because they commemorate important events. For example, the stamps that were made during the French Revolution are highly collectible and hard to find. Stamps produced in Germany during the Third World War are also considered to be quite rare and collectible.

When you’re trying to find valuable stamps remember that condition does count. Ideally, they should not be circulated, but if they were, they should be as free from marks as possible and they should not be torn or overly worn.

Originally posted 2008-09-22 14:00:28. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Stamps -> Books and Manuscripts -> Back of Book

United States stamps are fun to collect and you will have many different varieties from which to choose. If you are looking for a hobby for your kids, or you are just interested in US history, these stamps are a great link to our past and a valuable way to learn more about this country. If you want to collect United States stamps, there are a few things to remember. These tips will help you build up a very valuable collection.

1. Consider the Era

Stamps have been produced in America from the colonial period and there are numerous stamps from this time period that can still be found today. Colonial United States stamps are rare finds indeed, as are Confederate stamps. Whether you are interested in collecting for a specific year, or you just need to know which ones to look for, the older the better is true in the majority of cases. Keep your eyes open, you never know what you may find.

2. Think outside the book

There are many valuable United States stamps that were never actually used as stamps. These back of the book stamps, such as Duck Stamps are still quite rare and many of them will bring in thousands of dollars at auction. Although it is always nice to find stamps that were meant for circulation, you should also consider collecting at least a few back of book stamps as well.

3. Special Events Matter

Stamps that are designed to commemorate special events are always quite valuable. For example, the first flight United States stamps are highly sought after and commemorate the Wright Brothers and their contributions to the aviation industry. There are also United States stamps that were printed in honor of certain presidents as well as other public figures and important events that occurred throughout the history of this country. Learning about these stamps can be quite an education.

4. Condition Matters

By far the most valuable United States stamps are the ones that are in pristine condition and were never actually circulated. However, these are rare and may be priced out of reach of the average collector. You can still find some great stamps however if you keep your eyes open. In fact, in many cases, you can get a collection or lot of stamps at auction and discover a rare find right inside.

5. Errors Aren’t a Bad Thing

Although you would think that a United States stamp that was printed poorly or had an error would be worthless, the opposite is actually quite true. There is a huge market for oddity stamps, stamps with errors on them and what collectors refer to as “freaks.” Keep an eye out for stamps that may not look just right – you may have a gold mine on your hands.

FDCs are also very popular stamps and there are literally thousands of United States stamps that are considered to be collectible. Start building your collection today and see what rare finds you can come across.

Photo Credits: Svadilfari

Originally posted 2008-09-25 14:00:46. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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