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The following article was published in our article directory on December 27, 2021.
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Determining If You Have a Rare Stamp Collection

Article Category: Parenting

Author Name: Richard Malpass

How do you know if you have a rare stamp collection? It is very unlikely, but one or more of the stamps you have lovingly collected all these years might actually be valuable. In this article, we will explain some of the basic concepts for assessing your stamps to see what they might be worth.

What is the Origin of Your Stamp?

The first step in assessing a stamp is determining its origin � what country is it from and when was it issued? One invaluable reference for helping identify your stamp is a stamp catalogue, which provides detailed lists of every known stamp ever issued. Stanley Gibbons, for instance, has a six-volume comprehensive Simplified Catalogue, which lists stamps by countries of issuance, and also includes their estimated price valuations.

In case your stamp does not include the country it came from and what denomination it is, look for inscriptions or other marks. You can then do a search for these marks to identify your stamp.

What is the Condition of Your Stamp?

Even if you have found a stamp that is rare, it might not be valuable if it is in poor condition. Generally, stamps only have value if they are in above-average condition.

Note, however, that you should never handle stamps with your hands, since they can become dirty. Always use specialized stamp tongs or pliers with blunt ends that will avoid damaging the stamp.

Stamp condition is graded according to a following scale, with �Superb� being the most valuable and �Poor� being the least. Some of the factors used in determining condition include:

Centering. This refers to the way the stamp�s pictorial design is positioned within its perforations or edges. The better centered a stamp is, the more attractive it is to collectors because of its visual appeal.

Gum. This refers to the glue on the underside of the stamp. Generally, unused stamps with the gum intact are more valuable than used stamps, although this depends on the collector. Some will not consider the gum at all when assessing a stamp. Usually, however, stamps with pristine gum are the most desirable.

Damage and flaws. The closer a stamp is to its original condition, i.e. the way it looked when it was first issued, the more valuable it is. Some of the flaws that can hurt a stamp�s value include:

Tears and holes
Repairs
Discoloration or fading
Creases and bends
Areas where the paper has become thin

Even if a stamp has some damage, it may still be able to sell at a good price. However, the more serious the damage, the less valuable it will be.

Cancellations. These are marks made by the post office to indicate that a stamp has been used. These postmarks may add value to a stamp if they are unique or scarce, i.e. cancellations that were used to mark a special event.

These are just some of the things to consider when assessing your stamps to determine their value. Assessments, however, can be complex so it is better that you ask for the assistance of experts if you believe you have a stamp that is worth something. There are also be philatelic forums and organizations where you can consult with experienced stamp collectors about whether or not you have a rare stamp collection.

Keywords: rare stamps, invest in rare stamps, penny black stamp, invest in penny black stamp, buy penny black stamp, investing in rare stamps, rare stamp collection, how to buy rare stamps, Philatelic investment,

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