Stamps -> United States -> 19th Century Unused
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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