Stamp Collecting

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 -> United States -> Collections, Lots

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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