January 20th, 2010 — European Stamps, Old Postage Stamps, Queen Victoria Stamps, US Postage Stamps
One of the best ways to get interested in stamp collecting is to take a look at some old postage stamps. These are truly unique items and although they may not be as glitzy or as useful as today’s stamps, there are some that are truly unique and very valuable. When you’re looking for collectible old postage stamps, there are a few things to look for to see whether or not you have a truly valuable stamp in front of you.
1. Ink Color
Typically, old postage stamps used either red, brown, green or blue ink. The colors should be a bit faded, especially if the stamp was made in the late 1800’s. During this time more intricate designs were put into circulation but for the most part, the colors stayed the same. There is no real theory behind why these ink colors were used, but it does make it easier to find old postage stamps and authenticate them.
2. Designs
Old postage stamps will typically contain historical events or figures that were popular during that time. Just as we have celebrity stamps today, old postage stamps commemorated special events and people as well. In countries where there was a monarch, that would typically be the person that would adorn the majority of stamp designs. In republics, symbols of freedom were commonly used. Very old stamps will generally be less intricate, but towards the 19th century, design capability improved and many stamps produced during this time period are very ornate.
3. The Adhesive
Stamps that were produced before the late 1800’s typically did not have any form of adhesive. They were usually glued into place by the send of the mail or the post office. However, in the 1880’s, special adhesives were introduced that allowed people to easily attach their stamps to their mail on their own. Old postage stamps will usually have what is referred to as “gum” on the back. This “gum” will typically be brown or yellow in color due to age. If you can find an old postage stamp that still has the “gum” intact, you have a very rare find indeed.
4. The Condition
The condition of old postage stamps will have a large bearing on their value. Collectors usually try to find stamps that were never circulated, and that are still intact and free of rips or tears. While there are few old postage stamps that are incredibly valuable no matter what condition they may be in, it is important to try to find the best possible stamps if you are collecting with an eye of amassing valuable old postage stamps. One or two flaws are generally acceptable, but collectible stamps should be free of any major damage.
5. Demand
There are many old postage stamps that are in high demand and at times, you will see new ones that suddenly come into vogue. If you are trying to save money, you can collect old postage stamps that may not yet be popular. If they are still in good condition, you may just have a future winner on your hands.
Originally posted 2008-09-02 05:00:11. Republished by Blog Post Promoter
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January 18th, 2010 — Rare Stamps, Stamp Collecting, US Postage Stamps
When it comes to finding stamps of great value, US postage stamps are usually the most popular. In fact, many of these stamps may be worth more than $100k, and frequently will go well above that. When you are shopping for collectible US postage stamps, it helps to know what to look for so that you can make a good purchase. Here are some signs that you have a winner on your hands.
1. The gum is still intact.
For stamps made after the last part of the 19th century, there should be gum attached to the back. Adhesives were introduced in US postage stamps during this time period and if you can find one that still has the original gum, that is quite a feat indeed. This can make a difference of several thousand dollars in terms of overall value.
2. The stamp was never used.
While some highly collectible US postage stamps may still have value if they are used, you should always look for stamps that are still in their original books, or were never actually used. If you can find uncirculated US postage stamps, they are worth even more money.
3. The overall condition is very good.
Used or not, the US postage stamp you are trying to collect should be in the best possible condition. Stay away from stamps that are torn, missing pieces or in general bad condition. It is better to have a postmark on one than it is to have half a stamp. Always try to buy the stamps that are in the best condition first since they will generally be worth much more money.
4. The hinge is still intact.
The small piece of paper that was used to connect US postage stamps together is known as a hinge. If you can find a stamp that still has its hinge, it is generally worth more money than those that don’t. However, the hinge should be firmly attached and not hanging lose. If that occurs, the value will go down.
5. The historical figure depicted on the stamp.
This can be a big determiner in the overall value of a US postage stamp. For example, stamps depicting famous presidents such as Abraham Lincoln are generally more valuable. The same is true for famous founding fathers, like Benjamin Franklin, or even present day celebrities.
6. The stamp has a mistake.
This is actually a good thing, as long as it occurred when the stamp was manufactured. Error stamps are actually worth quite a bit of money and many collectors will limit their collections to only these odd creations. If you find a stamp that just looks a little wrong, do a little research on it. It may be a very valuable US postage stamp.
Whenever you are collecting US postage stamps, the overall condition should be your guide. While damaged stamps may be cheaper to collect, they just don’t have the same value as those that are in perfect shape.
Originally posted 2008-08-26 14:00:17. Republished by Blog Post Promoter
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January 15th, 2010 — Antique Postage Stamps, Queen Victoria Stamps, Rare Stamps, Stamp Collecting, collectible stamps
Finding the best collectible stamps can sometimes be difficult, especially if you don’t know what to look for. It’s never easy to guess when it comes to stamps, and if you are a serious collector, it pays to subscribe to stamp collecting magazines and newsletters so that you can always stay informed on the latest news and get the inside scoop as to which collectible stamps are being sought after right now. However, if you can’t get your hands on one of these publications, there are a few guidelines you can use to help you determine which collectible stamps are worth buying.
The older the better
Generally, the older a stamp is, the more valuable it will be. There are a few exceptions to the rule, but if you happen to stumble on a stamp that is more than 100 years old, it’s best to pick it up, especially if the price is low. You never know what great treasures you can find, and using the age of a stamp is an easy way to help you find the best deals.
The condition does matter
Unless a stamp is terribly old or very rare, the overall condition of the collectible stamp does matter. Look for stamps that are free of any rips or tears as well as creases. Ideally, you would look for a mint stamp, but these can be hard to find. Older stamps may also have a postmark on them, but don’t worry. This can actually add to the value instead of taking away from it.
Is it gummed?
Once adhesives were introduced for stamps, they became a lot more popular and more valuable. If you are looking for a great collectible stamp, try to find one that still has its original gum on the back. It should be yellowish in color, although there are some variations. If you can find a Victoria stamp with gum, you’ve got a great deal on your hands. This was one of the first stamps in the world to use adhesive and it was incredibly groundbreaking at the time.
Smaller considerations
In addition to the considerations mentioned above, there a few others that will impact collectible stamps values. For example, if the stamp was part of a book, is the perforation intact? Take a hard look at a stamp before buying it and if necessary, get an appraisal to see just how much it is really worth. By being cautious, you can ensure that you won’t be taken advantage of as readily as though who leap before looking.
These are just a few things to think about when you are in the market for collectible stamps. Read up on them if you can, since it can make you a smarter shopper. Never forget to comb through flea markets and garage sales, you may just end up with the winning stamp. This is a lot of fun and provides you with a great hobby that is ideal for sharing with children.
Photo Credits: aldo c zavala
Originally posted 2008-10-02 05:00:31. Republished by Blog Post Promoter
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