How is the value of a stamp determined?
The Four Main Elements of a Stamp. Typically, the value of a stamp is determined by four distinct elements: The image on the face. The perforations along the edge where it was attached to its sheet. The denomination or monetary value. The country of origin—usually featured on the face. The name of a stamp is usually derived from these elements.
Why are some stamps more expensive than others?
Various nuances, such as a secret mark or a curl, not obvious and not evident at first sight, can make an ordinary stamp expensive. So not every stamp that looks like a stamp that appears on this page can be that expensive.
What’s the price of a German postage stamp?
Many of the stamps are quite affordable with retail prices running from a few cents to several dollars. Of course with the series in use for such a long time, there are a number of hard-to-find and downright rare stamps to taunt collectors.
Who is the owner of the most valuable stamp in the world?
The stamp quickly rose in value as collectors realized the rarity of the little octagon the boy had stumbled upon. It has since traded hands across the world many times, with shoe designer and collector Stuart Weitzman currently possessing it.
How is the price of a stamp determined?
The price of a stamp is determined by several factors: 1 Rarity: How common is the stamp? 2 Condition: Does the stamp look like it just came from the post office? 3 Purchaser: Stamp storeowners, show dealers, individual collectors and sellers through auctions and mail sales often earn different amounts.
What makes a stamp worth more than its face value?
Age: Modern stamps have very limited value, usually just a small percentage of face value. Face value: Stamps with higher face value typically add to a collection’s value — of course, higher original price would add to the value. Number: Blocks, pairs or sheets of stamps can be worth more than single stamps. Never separate connected stamps.
Is the value of a forever stamp always the same?
Forever Stamps never expire and will always be the equivalent value of whatever the corresponding postal rate is – for example, a one-ounce First Class stamp for a regular Forever Stamp (that’s why I created this site: to keep track of the current postage rate which regular changes).
Which is the best price guide for stamps?
The Hobbizine United States Stamp Value Guide provides market prices for stamps in both mint and used condition. More than a simple price list or catalogue, the guide’s extensive illustrations and commentary make it an invaluable reference tool for stamp identification and United States postal history.
How can I find out what my stamp collection is worth?
The easiest way to have the collection valued is to have a valuation done by a stamp dealer. Members of the Australasian Philatelic Traders’ Association (APTA) agree to abide by a code of ethics and will provide you with a realistic idea of what your collection is worth.
Why are postage stamps worth so much money?
A stamp worth a few cents in catalogue value may be worth hundreds of dollars on cover because of the postmark, the postal rate, the destination or the route . Sometimes a postmark itself may be far more valuable than the stamp.
How can you tell the age of a postage stamp?
Determine the stamp’s country of origin. As with the stamp’s age, look for historical figures or events on the stamp, or words–knowing the language can help you narrow down the country. A picture of Queen Victoria, for example, is probably from 19th-early 20th century Great Britain, while a picture of the Hoover Dam may be mid-century American.
Do you know how to find the value of stamps?
A valued stamp does not have to look beautiful It is not always apparent, whether a stamp is expensive or not. Some old and used stamps can be very valuable and ordinary-looking items can be expensive if they wear a so-called secret mark. You might find one of the rarest stamps on the back shelf of your bookcase right now
Which is more valuable old stamps or new stamps?
Before determining the value of stamps it should be mentioned that the old ones are more expensive than the newer items. Also the price of a stamp depends on the availability of similar specimens in the world of stamp collecting. In other words the rarer your old postage stamp is, the more valuable it will be.
Which is the best catalogue to buy stamps?
It is used by American philatelists while the Stanley Gibbons catalogue is preferred in Great Britain. There you will find photographs of stamps, their prices sorted by the date of issue etc. You can also refer to an old stamp price guide that is usually sold at philatelic shops.
How is the value of a cancelled stamp determined?
The value attached to a cancelled stamp will depend on the stamp’s rarity and desirability for collecting. Generally, the heavier the cancellation mark, the lower the stamp’s value and it will get a “poor” grade.
