Exploring the World of Stamp Collection: Which Stamps Are Worth Money?
Stamp collecting is a popular hobby that can be incredibly rewarding, not just in the joy of amassing a collection, but also in its potential monetary value. Some rare and unique stamps can fetch thousands or even millions of dollars in the market. However, not all stamps are created equal, and it can be challenging to determine which ones are worth the investment. In this article, we will explore the most valuable stamps in history, how to evaluate your stamp collection, stamp investing 101, the stories behind the rarest stamps, where to sell your rare stamps, and much more.
Ten Most Valuable Stamps in History
When you think of valuable stamps, the first ones that come to mind may be the rarest from Great Britain or the United States. The ten stamps listed below, are not only significantly valuable but have also made history in the stamp collecting world.
1. British Guiana 1 Cent Magenta (1856)
The most expensive stamp in the world, the British Guiana 1 Cent Magenta was printed in limited numbers as an emergency solution when a shipment of official stamps failed to arrive from London to the British colony of Guiana in South America. The so-called “world’s rarest stamp” sold for $9.5 million in 2014.
2. Treskilling Yellow (1855)
The only known copy of Sweden’s Treskilling Yellow stamp was recently sold by Spink for ̶$̶8̶7̶0̶,̶0̶0̶0̶ $2.3 million. In 1885, the postmaster’s assistant inadvertently printed the three-skilling stamp in yellow instead of green. Today, this printing error is extremely rare for any stamps from this particular issue and is considered unique.
3. The “Inverted Jenny” (1918)
The US Postal Service accidently printed a small number of the 24-cent Curtiss “Jenny” biplane airmail stamps with the image of the biplane upside down. These stamps now go for hundreds of thousands of dollars, with one certified example selling for $1.32 million.
4. Baden 9 Kreuzer error (1851)
Only eight examples of the 9 Kreuzer error stamp known to exist today. This error stamp from the former Grand Duchy of Baden, Germany, features a yellow background instead of the correct rose color. In 2008, an example was sold for $1.47 million.
5. Hawaiian Missionaries (1851-1852)
These are among the rarest Hawaiian stamps, with only a few dozen known to exist today. The Missionaries take their name from the Christian missionaries who introduced stamps to Hawaii in 1851. In 1995, a block of four of these stamps sold for $760,000.
6. Basel Dove (1845)
Switzerland’s first-ever stamp is the world-renowned Basel Dove, featuring a flying dove with a blue sky background, which is now an emblem of Basel. Only a few dozen known, with one selling for $60,000 in 2019.
7. Red Revenue Small One Dollar Surcharge (1897)
The Red Revenue Small One Dollar Surcharge, also known as The Small One Dollar on 3c Surcharge, was one of the rarities of late Qing Dynasty China. Only a handful of One Dollar stamps overprinted with a three-cent stamp from that set make it special, with one selling for $1.45 million in 2018.
8. Canadian “Black Empress” (1851)
The world’s first postage stamp issued by the Canadian government in 1851 had a face value of 12 pence and is called the “Black Empress.” Only 1,450 copies were printed, which makes this stamp quite rare. Black Empress with a stamp above seven strands are regarded as even more rare, with one selling for $170,000 in 2014.
9. India’s Inverted Head Four Annas (1854)
This was the first Indian stamp ever to be printed, and the inverted head four annas is one of the rarest. The Indian Post Office mistakenly, printed the head upside-down in error, making it one of the most valuable Indian stamps with one selling for $60,000.
10. Z Grill (1868)
The rarest of all US stamps, the Benjamin Franklin Z Grill, has a unique grill pattern that presses indentations into the paper, making the stamp more durable. Only two of these inverted Z Grill stamps have ever been found, with one valued at $3 million.
How To Evaluate the Worth Of Your Stamp Collection
Stamp collecting can be a fun and exciting hobby in itself, but if you want to evaluate the worth of your collection, you need to understand the criteria used in the stamp collecting community to determine a stamp’s price.
Condition
One of the crucial aspects of any stamp’s worth is its condition. Like any other collectible, a stamp’s condition can make the difference between an average value and a rare stamp. Stamps that have not been coated in plastic or glass, unused, clean, and crisp are worth more compared to stamped and used ones.
Age
The older the stamp is, the higher the potential value. Stamps from the late 1800s to early 1900s may have greater value if they are not in circulation, new, and have not been used. However, there are also modern stamps that can have value if they are rare or misprinted.
Rarity
Like any other collectible, rarity is key when it comes to stamp value. Rareness can be a result of a mishap at the printing stage or the result of the scarcity of a specific type of stamp. Rarer means more valuable in the stamp collecting market.
Demand
The demand for a specific niche’s stamps determines its value. If there’s a high demand for a particular stamp in the market, then such a stamp can fetch a higher price.
Preservation
If people handle a stamp properly and ensure its preservation, it can last decades or even centuries. Storage of stamps, exposure to humidity, UV light, or other environmental factors can affect the value of the stamp.
Appraisal
An appraisal from a professional can help to determine the value of your stamp collection. Stamp appraisers use auction prices, catalogs, and their knowledge and expertise in the field of stamps to assign a value to each stamp or collection.
Stamp Investing 101
Stamp investing can be a profitable, alternative investment option for some investors who have a love for philatelic items. But investing in stamps is not for everyone, and many factors can influence an investment’s profitability.
Identifying Valuable Stamps
Several factors come into play when identifying a valuable stamp for its investment potential, such as rarity, age, condition, and historical significance. Collecting stamps for investments means investing in quality. However, stamp investments must make financial and practical sense.
Avoiding Scams
If you’re new to stamp investing, be wary of market scams that can be costly to your investment. Avoid impulse buying and do your research before purchasing any stamps. A trustworthy seller is one who discloses all details of any stamp they are selling.
Market Trends and Forecasting
The stamp collecting market goes through changes similar to the stock market and real estate markets. The price and demand for specific stamps change as the market shifts. To make an investment in stamps, following trends, patterns, and headlines in the stamp collecting market can help you to make informed decisions.
Risks and Rewards
The rewards of stamp investing can be lucrative, just like any other investment, but it comes with its risks as well. A stamp that is valuable today might not be valuable tomorrow, and just as the value of a stamp can increase, it can also decrease. So, before investing, understand the risks involved, and always make informed decisions.
The Stories Behind The Rarest Stamps
Stamps are more than just small pieces of paper. They tell the stories of the cultures behind them, their creators, and the stories that make up our world. Here are some of the stories behind the rarest ones.
Penny Black (1840)
The Penny Black was the first adhesive postage stamp in the world, printed in the United Kingdom in 1840, a stamp that revolutionized the global postal system – giving birth to worldwide stamp collections.
Diamond Head (US Hawaii, 1855)
The Diamond Head stamp, also known as the Hawaiian Missionary stamp, is one of the rarest and the most expensive stamps in the world. This unique stamp tells the stories of the first Christian missionaries who attempted to spread their message to the then-Kingdom of Hawaii.
The Red Mercury (Russia, 1857)
Named because of its vibrant hue, this is one of Russia’s first issues, designed to help fund the country’s imperial postage reforms. One of the rarest Russian postage stamps, this stamp illustrates the story of Russia’s early modernization through the reigns of Tsar Alexander II and Catherine the Great.
Where to sell your rare stamps
If you decide to sell your rare stamps, there are plenty of options. Here are the top ways you can sell your rare stamps:
Auction Houses
Auction houses are ideal for rare and unique stamp collections. The bidding process can be competitive, which can drive up prices. However, there may be a commission fee involved.
Dealers and Retailers
Dealers and retailers are stamp experts. They can offer instant cash but will not pay as much since they must make a profit. However, this is the ideal choice for new collectors approaching the business of stamp collecting.
Online Marketplaces
Online marketplaces like eBay, Etsy, and Delcampe can help you reach a broader audience of potential buyers. However, with online marketplaces, security and trust can be concerns. Ensure you are working with reputable marketplaces.
Stamp Shows and Exhibitions/Events
Stamp shows provide an opportunity to connect with other stamp collectors, vendors, and dealers. These events often have auctions and buyers ready to purchase rare stamps.
Conclusion
Stamp collecting is a fascinating and profitable hobby to get into. The most valuable stamps in history come with unique stories of culture, setbacks, mistakes, innovations, and fascinating personalities, and while rare, they are not as elusive as you might think. With proper evaluation, preservation, and appreciation of unique stamps, collectors can turn their love of philately into an alternative investment.
Whether you are a seasoned collector or a beginner, taking the right steps at the right time can increase the worth of your collection. Investing in stamps comes with risks and rewards, so approach it cautiously by staying informed and seeking guidance from experts before making any important decisions.
