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	U.S. Stamps By Juan 9 months ago \| Last Post: 10 hours ago Forum Stamp Values
	@juan Not a problem whatsoever. Happy to help a fellow collector. 10 hours ago By jblah… @jblaha Thank you very much this information, Jan. I hope your retirement is going very well! 11 hours ago By Juan @juan My apologies for not responding sooner, at the time of your Post I was preparing for retirement. Therefore, I was a tad preoccupied. The first stamp presented upon the image of your Post is as follows: US Scott # 26 Type III, Dull Red, Unwatermarked, Perforation 15.5, Issued September 15th, 1857, printed by Toppan, Carpenter & Company. CV $10 used, but your example shows some condition issues which will affects its value (I'd estimate it at 60% CV). Why I believe it to be US Scott 26 is due to the vertical frame lines which appear to run continuously, as well as the absence of horizontal frame lines at the top and bottom of the stamp. See the enhanced images of the upper left and lower right corners of your stamp showing these vertical frame lines… This stamp could possibly come from either Plates 9, 12-28 utilized during their printing process. As for your second stamp… Since I do not see any indications of a Grill, I believe it to be… US Scott # 65, Rose, Unwatermarked, Perforation 12, Issued August 19th, 1861, printed by National Bank Note Company. CV $3 used, but your example shows a severe condition issues, especially the tear at the lower right corner (I'd estimate this to be more of a Space Filler, or at 10% CV). I hope the above proves helpful to you query. 1 day ago By jblah…
	1865 Newspaper & Periodical Stamps By Juan 9 months ago \| Last Post: 10 hours ago Forum Stamp Values
	@juan Not a problem whatsoever. Happy to help a fellow collector. 10 hours ago By jblah… @jblaha Thank you very much Jan for this information which helped me decide to keep the stamps in the collection for sentimental reasons. 11 hours ago By Juan These Newspaper & Periodical Stamps shown upon your post are as follows… The 5 cents with White Border can either be US Scott # PR4, Catalog Value unused is $900.00; or US Scott # PR5, Catalog Value unused is $225.00. The 10 cents with Colored Border can either be US Scott # PR2, Catalog Value unused is $300.00; or US Scott # PR6 Catalog Value unused $250.00. The 25 cents with Colored Border can either be US Scott # PR3, Catalog Value unused is $400.00; or US Scott # PR7 Catalo Value unused $300.00. PR2, PR3 & PR4 were issued 1865, PR5, PR6 & PR7 were issued 1875. All the above stamps were issued "NGAI" (No Gum as Issued). Be advised, I recommend getting these certified by APS, PSE or another reputable authentication company known to deal with US Stamps in order to ascertain which you may have. All quoted CVs (Catalog Values) are from Scott Specialized Catalogue of US Stamps & Covers 2025. 2 weeks ago By jblah…
	Trucial States – CTOs – Michel Catalogue in English a Must Have By jblaha 11 hours ago \| Last Post: 11 hours ago Forum Resources & Literature
	I recall when my brother and I went to our local stamp dealer, which was just a glass display case within an Optimo Store on the corner of 18th Avenue & McDonald Avenue in Brooklyn NY. This is where we bought Packets of 50 to 100 colorful stamps for just a dollar each. Many of these stamps would have been coveted by Topical Collectors due to the images presented upon each, from butterflies, trains, cats, insects, etc. Since my father had inspired us to collect, he had also stressed the importance of properly organizing our collection. He recommended we go to the library to look up our stamps in the Reference Section therein. This is when we first came to be introduced to the Scott Catalogues. We were able to find some of our stamps, but quite few we couldn't even find whatsoever. Therefore, we kept these unidentified stamps in the back of our stock books. As time went on, I learned of CTOs (Canceled-to-Order) stamps, which many Communist Countries produced copious quantities of. These I was able to find within the Scott Catalogues but was not as fortunate for stamps from countries known to be of the Trucial States where CTOs are in abundance. The Trucial States were a group of seven Arabian sheikdoms – Abu Dhabi, Ajman (Manama), Dubai, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah, Sharjah, and Umm Al Quwain – which formed a British protected confederation from 1820 to 1971, when they united to become the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Many collectors at the time frowned upon collecting CTOs, especially those from Trucial States. This is a main reason Scott Catalogues does not list these stamps, since they are not considered Postally viable for use. However, many of us have these in our collections, and still desire to Catalogues them for posterity. I myself fall into this category. At about the Millenium I was introduced to Michel Catalogues (from Germany), of which are printed in German. Fortunately, I am able to read quite bit of German but still struggled through with some issues with translation. Back in 2014, I discovered some Michel Catalogues (very few) are also printed in English, so I ventured to acquire some copies of these. With this stated, I was delighted to discover the below Catalogue, and with the aid of this book I was able to chronologically & numerically catalog the CTOs from the Trucial States. Here's a sampling of what you can find within this Catalogue… If you are a collector of such as I, and wish to categorize such CTOs within your collection, you will find this book to be a boon. It will take some effort to find a copy, but with determination you may be able to find it. Be advised. it will not be cheap. You must be ready to pay anywhere from $50 to $100 for such a copy. Good luck on your sojourn to find this Catalogue. 11 hours ago By jblah…
	Greenland – My Halloween Post By jblaha 2 days ago \| Last Post: 2 days ago Forum Stamp Talk
	Happy Halloween to all Philatelists in our Stamp Community. With his stated, please submit an image along with a small write up of a stamp you have in your collection which depicts Halloween tales, fun or macabre (you decide). I myself have chosen to venture a journey down the path of macabre. Though not Halloween themed, I am hoping my selection will inspire others to post their selection(s) from their collection. The country of Greenland or Kalaallit Nunaat (Greenlandic) which is an autonomous territory of the Kingdom of Denmark, where the Polar Bear (largest species of bear & land carnivore by body mass) is prominently emblazoned upon their Coat of Arms. With the above stated, here is a stamp from my collection of which is part of a series (of Art) of stamps issued from 1980-87… This 3.70dkr stamp's art by K. Andreassen (1890-1934) titled "Polar Bear Killing Seal Hunter" was Engraved by Arne Kühlmann, designed by Jens Rosling. Greenland Scott # 117, Unwatermarked, Engraved, Perforation 13 was issued on February 9th, 1984. I myself find the image a bit disturbing, showing a human as prey to a large predator. Wouldn't you agree? For those who utilize other Catalogues in lieu of Scott, here are the most popular Catalogues out there along with this stamp’s Cat # for your reference… Michel # 147 Stanley Gibbons # 144 Yvert et Tellier # 135 I invite others to participate, let's see what is lurking within your collection. 2 days ago By jblah…
	Tsk, Tsk! Naughty Postage Use. By jblaha 3 days ago \| Last Post: 2 days ago Forum Stamp Talk
	@ryanjoneson Thank you More will come soon. 2 days ago By jblah… WOW these are great @jblaha ! I have a collection of counterfeit stamps including pre-modern. These are very neat. Can't wait to see more of your collection! 3 days ago By Ryan … Here's another peek into my collection; a few illegal Postage usages upon mail of which successfully went through USPS without being flagged for Postage Due. The audacity of some people whom of which definitely know what they are doing. The first one shows this individual used the label from a double-sided convertible booklet of stamps… The second one uses a single 1 cent stamp in lieu of a 1‑ounce First‑Class Mail letter Forever Stamp rate of .55 cents. I am sure the sender knew the going rate at the time, but sneakily under posted this letter to illicitly save .54 cents. The third and final one I have to show reaches a level audacity of "Ballsy" I'd say, by the use of a previously used stamp clearly torn from a manila envelope and then simply taped upon a fresh envelope for mailing… What really sticks in my craw is the above examples of illegal Postage use were sent by Attorneys. You would think they are familiar with the illegality of such. But since an Attorney "nickels and dimes" their clients, I am sure their bills did not reflect these costs. It is a shame these were not caught by USPS and returned for proper Postage. These are just another example of revenue loss suffered by the taxpayer, along with the copious counterfeit Postage from our friends in China. If anyone out there has other examples of illicit Postage use, please share. But remember to cover the addresses upon same so as not to invoke ire. 3 days ago By jblah…
	Block of 4, 10c yellow, Sassone #1, kingdom of Italy 1863 By 41ziggs 9 months ago \| Last Post: 3 days ago Forum Stamp Values
	@41ziggs My apologies for not responding sooner, at the time of your Post I was preparing to go onto retirement, otherwise I would have replied forthwith. What your image appears to show is a poorly printed stamps with "Inverted Head" wrought to deceive (a forgery). If authentic, this block of 4 would be as follows… Italian State – Sardinia, Scott # 11k (which would command a CV of $4000.00 each if it were authentic), issued in 1863, Unwatermarked, Imperforate, Typographed frame in color (bister), with a colorless embossed vignette (your example is Inverted). It is of King Vittorio Emanuele II who reigned from March 17th, 1861 to January 9th, 1878. The authentic version of these stamps was Designed and Printed by Francesco Matraire, in Torino (Turin), where the infamous "Shroud" is said to have been brought by Emmanuel Philibert, Duke of Savoy in 1578. I wish I had better news for you then what I mention above with relation to its authenticity. Though a fine addition to any collection as an example of a forgery. 3 days ago By jblah… Can anyone help with this stamps value? 9 months ago By 41zig… Block of 4, 10c yellow, Sassone #1, kingdom of Italy 1863 9 months ago By 41zig…
	Stampless Cover June 6th, 1815 From James Cox to Elie Beatty (Postal H… By jblaha 1 week ago \| Last Post: 4 days ago Forum Stamp Talk
	Very interesting and neat @jblaha Thanks for sharing! 4 days ago By Ryan … Though this is not a POSTAGE STAMP per se, such STAMPLESS COVERS are an interesting facet of philately. I am quite happy to have this item in my collection. Here's some technical info… A red "Baltimore Md." 30mm CDS (Circular Date Stamp) dated June 24th (1815) with a magenta manuscript "15" on a folded letter of which is datelined "Bank of Baltimore June 24th, 1815", addressed to "Elie Beatty, Cashier Hagerstown Bank" from James Cox, Cashier, Bank of Baltimore Maryland." This is an example of the War (of 1812) Rate which went into effect February 1st, 1815 to March 30th, 1816; Distance of 40 to 90 miles, a single letter sheet, 15 cents. This was a 50% increase of the previous rate of 10 cents. The distance from Baltimore to Hagerstown is 74 miles. Here are some links you may find of interest pertaining to Elie Beatty (recipient of this letter), whom of which correspondence relating to him is prolifically documented and collected… A Youtube video… Elie Beatty Cashier of the Hagerstown Bank: 1807-1859 Another link related to the above Youtube Link… Philatelic Society of Lancaster County: Elie Beatty Cashier of the Hagerstown Bank (1807-1859) – The Digital Philatelist A couple of Links pertaining to Elie Beatty's Bio for your review… Elie Beatty hagerstown maryland 1815 – Search Elie Beatty (1776–1859) Below are some links pertaining to the extensive collections held by Old Dominion University, as well as the University of Maryland… Collection: Elie Beatty Papers \| Special Collections and University Archives Collection Guides Collection: Hagerstown Bank collection \| Archival Collections Now for some links pertaining to the James Cox (sender of this letter), though not as extensively documented as Elie – take a look… James Cox Baltimore Maryland 1815 – Search <a href="http://mdsa.net">Maryland State Archives</a><br><a href="http://speccol.mdarchives.state.md.us/msa/speccol/catalog/cfm/dsp_unit.cfm?speccol=5923&box_no=&folderno=&serno=1&item=1&level=item&id=106524">Baltimore City Directory, 1814-1815</a><br>, msa_sc5923_1_1-0060 1815 JAMES COX CASHIER BANK OF BALTIMORE TO HAGERSTOWN MD STMPLS LTTR CVR \| #1783525895 I hope you enjoyed this peek into my collection and has inspired other collectors who just collect postage stamps to branch out to Postal History (Stampless and Franked (stamped covers). If you have such items in your collection, please post them with a small write up so others can also have a peek into your philatelic collection. Thank you. 1 week ago By jblah…
	WWII australia stamps By ruebabes 10 months ago \| Last Post: 4 days ago Forum Stamp Values
	As @ryanjoneson stated, these are examples of specimen stamps. Postage Stamps or Postal Stationary Indicium overprinted with the word "SPECIMEN" are sent to Postmasters and Postal Administrations so these entities are able to identify valid stamps and to avoid forgeries. This is the usual method of invalidating the stamps by either overprinting in ink or perforating the word "SPECIMEN" across the stamp. As for a Catalogue Value, I unfortunately am unable to locate such listings specifically referencing "SPECIMEN" stamps for Australia. My apologies. 4 days ago By jblah… Thanks for sharing! I'm not familiar with values of Australian Specimen stamps. In the US there are some that can be valuable, and others not so much. They were made for proofing stamp designs and prints before making them public, so they were not used for mailing. Maybe someone else in the community will have more knowledge of value on these. 9 months ago By Ryan … here is the picture of them 10 months ago By rueba…
	France 1871 15 centimes stamp: identification and value? By DoubleA 11 months ago \| Last Post: 4 days ago Forum Stamp Values
	EUREKA! I have found the stamp upon your Post's image… It is France Scott # 538 – CV used is .25 cents as noted upon Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue 2026. It is from a series of French stamps titled "Ceres Mazelin", this specific stamp was issued on July 21st, 1946 (demonetized on January 21st, 1948) Unwatermarked, in Typography, perf 14×13.5. A quantity of 211,070,000 stamps was printed. The Designer is Charles Mazelin (hence the series title), and the Engraver is Henri Cortot. If you utilize other Catalogues in lieu of Scott, here are the most popular Catalogues out there along with this stamp's Cat # for your reference… Michel # 688 Stanley Gibbons # 916 Yvert et Tellier # 681 @doublea if you have more you desire information for please send more images. 4 days ago By jblah… I am a bit stymied on this one, even after checking my Yvert et Tellier catalogs, I am still perplexed. Possibly a revenue issue, though the design of the stamp upon your post is not reflected upon Colnet site's revenue listings (revenue stamp designs are what is usually expected). Stamps of 1871 had "REPUB-FRANC" not "REPUBLIQUE-FRANCAISE" which started around 1876. Additionally, the stamp shown is not 15 centimes, it appears to be 2 Francs 50 centimes. My apologies, I'll keep snooping around. 2 weeks ago By jblah… Hello there. I can't locate this particular stamp. My app says it's a 1871 15c Bister France Stamp but I don't think it's correct. I looked on the internet but I can't locate this one. Thanks. 11 months ago By Doubl…
	How to Detect Damage, Altered, and Repaired Stamps – By Paul W. Schmid By jblaha 1 week ago \| Last Post: 5 days ago Forum Resources & Literature
	Just found this book on ebay for "$32.75 0r Best Offer" if anyone is interested – see link below… How To Detect Damaged, Altered, And Repaired Stamps by Paul W. Schmid (1979… \| eBay 5 days ago By jblah… So, you find a stamp which you believe may be a lucrative find. But you are apprehensive to send it to be expertised, and you do not have the funds to purchase all the necessary reference books out there which can be quite costly. And you find yourself saying, "I wish there was a book out there to enlighten me and not cost an arm & a leg." Well your wish has come true, in 105 pages of easily digestible information. The late Paul W. Schmid's new edition explains how to detect alterations that can drastically affect a stamp's value and how to recognize regummed, reperforated, repaired and otherwise altered stamps. Avoiding costly mistakes…. Here's sampling of the content this book offers… There are sellers out there which are asking astronomical prices, but a persistent individual searching may be lucky as I was to find this book at its cover value of $17.00. If you do get your hands on one at a price without putting you a poorhouse, the effort will be well worth it. 1 week ago By jblah…
	US #143L7 Pony Express?? Authentic? By Summit Stamps 2 weeks ago \| Last Post: 1 week ago Forum Stamp Identification
	Thanks Ryan! I’ll post a picture of the back soon. Might just send it in to PSE regardless and see what they think. Thanks again for your insight Sir! -Darin 1 week ago By Summi… Nice find! The design is the Wells Fargo & Co. Pony Express 10 cent brown, the "running pony" issue with "Enclosed in our Franks" at the bottom, which matches Scott 143L7. Whether it's genuine is the hard part. These Wells Fargo stamps were widely reprinted and forged, and a cancel doesn't settle it either, because fake and reprinted copies were cancelled too. A few things that would help: Post a photo of the back, and a close-up of the cancel.Compare the fine engraving lines in the background and in the pony's legs against a known genuine copy. Forgeries usually look coarser or blurrier.If it checks out, get a certificate (Philatelic Foundation or APS) before buying, selling or insuring it. That's standard for Western express stamps.It's a great piece of history either way. Thanks for sharing it! 2 weeks ago By Ryan … Any thoughts on this one? I found this in an old BOB stock book I bought from a dealer in Indiana. I’m curious of your thoughts. Is it genuine? Possibly a reprint or a fake. It appears used so I’m doubting it’s a fake but I’m certainly no expert on these old Wells Fargo stamps. 2 weeks ago By Summi…
	4c Project Mercury By WCD 1 week ago \| Last Post: 1 week ago Forum Stamp Values
	You have US Scott # 1193, Perf. 11 issued February 20, 1962. According to Scott Specialized Catalogue of Stamps and Covers 2025 the Catalog Values for a MNH single is .35 cents, a Plate # Block of 4 is $1.00. Your image appears to be a full sheet of 50 of which is currently on offer on Ebay for $2.29 – see link below… SCOTT 1193 PROJECT MERCURY 4 CENT M NH FULL SHEET OF 50 \| eBay My apologies this will not break the bank, but is a nice sheet to start a collection with. 1 week ago By jblah… Trying to find source for appraisal and Scott number of collection. 1 week ago By WCD
	Estate Sale Shoe Box Find By tc_athens 5 months ago \| Last Post: 1 week ago Forum Stamp Values
	I notice you have numerous Precancels. These are the stamps with the City & States emblazoned between two black bars. I personally seek such items out in an attempt to complete a State's run. Some States are well into the hundreds of varieties when considering font size and type, inverts, single or double bars, etc. Check out this link if you are interested… – Precancel Stamp Society There are quite a few individuals who solely delve into this facet of Philately. Have fun collecting. 1 week ago By jblah… While some of these are over 100 years old, they are all common and have no monetary value unless graded. That said I agree with @rsb_stamps to enjoy them and possibly allow them to grow your curiosity into the hobby and learn more! Oh and the ones with the horizontal black bars and city names are called pre-cancels and they were used by businesses which allowed them to put mail into the delivery route without needing to go through the cancellation process. 4 months ago By Ryan … I have many (if not all) of these and multiple ones. All I can say is don't quit your day job 🙂 Just enjoy the stamps. BTW bought similar ones also – not in a shoe box but cigar box…(paid $10) at an estate sale in Georgia… 5 months ago By RSB_S…
	Hobby Burn Out. What Other Hobbies Do You Enjoy When Not Stamping? By jblaha 1 week ago \| Last Post: 1 week ago Forum Stamp Talk
	Many of us have experienced hobby burn out, which leads to us taking a break. Sometimes the length of this break is days, weeks, months, or even years. How many times have you heard from other collectors they have revisited their collecting habits after just such a break. Our Stamp Collecting hobby can at times feel more like a job, but it shouldn't. We do this for fun. When I find a break can be a valid choice. I myself seek out other hobbies which pique my interest – such hobbies I delve into for a break in my collecting are… 1. Role playing games, such as Dungeons & Dragons & Call of Cthulhu. 2. Tabletop Wargaming, such as Historical (Hail Ceasar), Fantasy & Science Fiction (Kings of War & Warhammer (Age of Sigmar & 40K). 3. Miniature collecting painting and terrain building. But inevitably I always return to my Love – Philately. Please share what other hobbies you delve into when a break is found to be in need. Here are a few images of my other hobbies… 1 week ago By jblah…
	Foreign stamps with foreign language can’t read By Sunny4 6 months ago \| Last Post: 2 weeks ago Forum Stamp Identification
	I have used the Camera function of Google Translate App. on my Cellphone which usually helps me. I was stymied by an Albanian Stamp thinking it was an Airmail (it was not) – it turned out to be Cinderella. 2 weeks ago By jblah… @ryanjoneson I agree with you. Once I know the country I pull out my Scott's catalogs and verify the stamp and Scott's number. Google Images is a great tool but we need the catalogs to take it from there. 4 months ago By frogg… Yes Google images is a handy tool. However you have to be cautious of the source, as there are tons of misidentified stamps floating all across the web. 4 months ago By Ryan … view all posts
	Why did Irish stamp catalog values drop (Scott 66)? By TonyDeAngel 10 months ago \| Last Post: 2 weeks ago Forum Stamp Values
	Scott Catalog can be frustrating at times, such as retiring various numbers which once were, and numbering changes. This also goes with their Catalog values (CVs). Every now and then CV changes Up & Down for some Countries. Each year's catalog publishes a section of the catalog listing such changes. But this can only be useful if you can afford a full set annually (which most of us cannot). My last full set was 2013, and US Specialized 2014, before acquiring a full set of 2026, and a US Specialized 2025. Because of the large gap in annual sets, there are various changes which you'll find yourself unaware of. This, I am sure can be very frustrating for Stamp Dealers. This is why I also acquire Michel Catalogs from Germany – they are more consistent and list stamps which are totally ignored by Scott. 2 weeks ago By jblah… What happened to the common stamps for Irish stamps. In 2020 Scott #66 was valued at $1.50, Scott #68 was $ .75, Scott 107, 109, 111, 112 and 113 were valued at $1.40 each. All of them in the Scott 2026 catalogue are now at the $.25 minimum stamp value. There are many other price reductions for Ireland. Anybody know why Scott reduced so many of the Irish stamps? 10 months ago By TonyD…
	Mystery stamp #1: can you name this one? By Ryan Joneson 2 weeks ago \| Last Post: 2 weeks ago Forum Stamp Identification
	Answer: Scott #119, the 15 cent Landing of Columbus, Type II, issued in 1869. Congratulations @jblaha, and welcome back! You got it first and nailed the bonus too. As you explained, the 15 cent Columbus comes in three versions: Scott #118 (Type I), Scott #119 (Type II) and the later Scott #129 re-issue, and the shading lines beside the vignette are one of the quickest ways to tell them apart. Thanks for taking the time to write it up so clearly. You can see photos, specs and current values on our catalog page for Scott #119. Mystery stamp #2 is coming soon. Have one you would like the community to try? Post it in Stamp Identification. 2 weeks ago By Ryan … It has been sometime since I have posted upon this forum – I've been enjoying my recent retirement. Now to your Mystery Stamp… The specific stamp shown upon this post is US Scott # 119 Type II, issued in 1869 (earliest documented use April 5, 1869). The vignette shows "The Landing of Columbus" As for the Bonus query – there are three versions of this stamp, as follows… First one is US Scott # 118 Type I, this version has horizontal shading lines at the left and right sides of the vignette. In addition, at the peak of the border shaped somewhat like the upper part of a triangle is located below the first period in "U.S." and immediately under the "T" of "POSTAGE" is where this area has few or no shading lines. The second one is the stamp shown upon your post Ryan, as stated above it is US Scott # 119 Type II. This version has diagonal shading lines at the left and right sides of the vignette. In addition, at the peak of the border below the first period in "U.S." and immediately under the "T" of "POSTAGE" a diamond is formed by the brown frame lines. The third version is US Scott #129 Type III, which is very similar to US Scott # 118 Type I, but without the shading lines at each side of the vignette. I hope this reply hits all the marks. Reference Material used for the above reply isas follows… 1. Scott Specialized Catalog of US Stamps & Covers 2025 2. Scott Identification Guide to US Stamps, Regular Issues 1847-1934 6th Edition 2 weeks ago By jblah… Time for a quick identification challenge. Can you name this U.S. stamp? Tell us: The Scott numberThe year it was issuedWhat the design showsBonus point if you can explain how to tell it apart from its closest look-alike. I will post the answer here on Monday, October 12. Want to check your own stamps? The free Scott catalog on Stamp Collectors has photos and values for U.S. issues. 2 weeks ago By Ryan …
	Can anyone help ID these stamps and their value By Sleighbell 3 months ago \| Last Post: 2 weeks ago Forum Stamp Identification
	You may wish to utilize this site's Stamp Identification – Very helpful and easy to use. Or you can use the Free Catalog offered by Mystic Stamp Company – see link below… SC1T – Mystic Stamp Catalog – Mystic Stamp Company But keep in mind, you will be inundated by their marketing department with offers. 2 weeks ago By jblah… thanks for sharing. these are all from the 1960s/1970s. all unused united states stamps issued after 1935 are worth face value. 3 months ago By Ryan … Can anyone help ID these stamps and their value 3 months ago By Sleig…
	Looking for more info, and value. I also have many more! Thanks in adv… By RobertH 2 months ago \| Last Post: 2 weeks ago Forum Stamp Values
	I recommend checking out the website 'Stamp Smarter" to identify each one. There are numerous varieties within each type your images show. 2 weeks ago By jblah… Looking for more info, and value. I also have many more! Thanks in advance 2 months ago By Rober…
	Bayern 3 1876-1911 By jhalvorsen 1 year ago \| Last Post: 2 weeks ago Forum Stamp Values
	The stamp upon your post is… Bavaria Scott # 60; Watermark 95h, perf. 14 x 14.5; Issued in the year 1900. 2026 Scott Catalog Value for a used copy is .65 cents. Unused mint is .30 cents. I hope this info proves beneficial. 2 weeks ago By jblah… Bayern 3 from dates of 1876/1911. Estimate of value? 1 year ago By jhalv…
	Stamp of the Week: the 1851 3c Washington (Scott 11) By Ryan Joneson 3 weeks ago \| Last Post: 3 weeks ago Forum Stamp Talk
	Each week we pick one stamp from the catalog and open it up for discussion. This week is Scott #11, the 3 cent George Washington imperforate printed by Toppan, Carpenter, Casilear & Co. and used from 1851 to 1857. About 140 million were issued to pay the 3 cent letter rate, so it is one of the most common classic U.S. stamps. That is exactly what makes it fun: shades, plate varieties, margins and cancels all change what a copy is worth. A quick tip: the earlier Scott #10 and #10A are orange brown, while #11 is dull red. Cancels and dates help too. Your turn: Have a Scott #11? Post a photo, front and back.What is the best cancel you have seen on one?Four margins or cut into the design: how much does that change the price in your experience?New to the 1851 issue? Post yours and the community will help you confirm which stamp you have. 3 weeks ago By Ryan …

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Topics with their latest replies in reversed order
	U.S. Stamps By Juan 9 months ago \| Last Post: 10 hours ago Forum Stamp Values
	@juan Not a problem whatsoever. Happy to help a fellow collector. 10 hours ago By jblah… @jblaha Thank you very much this information, Jan. I hope your retirement is going very well! 11 hours ago By Juan @juan My apologies for not responding sooner, at the time of your Post I was preparing for retirement. Therefore, I was a tad preoccupied. The first stamp presented upon the image of your Post is as follows: US Scott # 26 Type III, Dull Red, Unwatermarked, Perforation 15.5, Issued September 15th, 1857, printed by Toppan, Carpenter & Company. CV $10 used, but your example shows some condition issues which will affects its value (I'd estimate it at 60% CV). Why I believe it to be US Scott 26 is due to the vertical frame lines which appear to run continuously, as well as the absence of horizontal frame lines at the top and bottom of the stamp. See the enhanced images of the upper left and lower right corners of your stamp showing these vertical frame lines… This stamp could possibly come from either Plates 9, 12-28 utilized during their printing process. As for your second stamp… Since I do not see any indications of a Grill, I believe it to be… US Scott # 65, Rose, Unwatermarked, Perforation 12, Issued August 19th, 1861, printed by National Bank Note Company. CV $3 used, but your example shows a severe condition issues, especially the tear at the lower right corner (I'd estimate this to be more of a Space Filler, or at 10% CV). I hope the above proves helpful to you query. 1 day ago By jblah…
	1865 Newspaper & Periodical Stamps By Juan 9 months ago \| Last Post: 10 hours ago Forum Stamp Values
	@juan Not a problem whatsoever. Happy to help a fellow collector. 10 hours ago By jblah… @jblaha Thank you very much Jan for this information which helped me decide to keep the stamps in the collection for sentimental reasons. 11 hours ago By Juan These Newspaper & Periodical Stamps shown upon your post are as follows… The 5 cents with White Border can either be US Scott # PR4, Catalog Value unused is $900.00; or US Scott # PR5, Catalog Value unused is $225.00. The 10 cents with Colored Border can either be US Scott # PR2, Catalog Value unused is $300.00; or US Scott # PR6 Catalog Value unused $250.00. The 25 cents with Colored Border can either be US Scott # PR3, Catalog Value unused is $400.00; or US Scott # PR7 Catalo Value unused $300.00. PR2, PR3 & PR4 were issued 1865, PR5, PR6 & PR7 were issued 1875. All the above stamps were issued "NGAI" (No Gum as Issued). Be advised, I recommend getting these certified by APS, PSE or another reputable authentication company known to deal with US Stamps in order to ascertain which you may have. All quoted CVs (Catalog Values) are from Scott Specialized Catalogue of US Stamps & Covers 2025. 2 weeks ago By jblah…
	Trucial States – CTOs – Michel Catalogue in English a Must Have By jblaha 11 hours ago \| Last Post: 11 hours ago Forum Resources & Literature
	I recall when my brother and I went to our local stamp dealer, which was just a glass display case within an Optimo Store on the corner of 18th Avenue & McDonald Avenue in Brooklyn NY. This is where we bought Packets of 50 to 100 colorful stamps for just a dollar each. Many of these stamps would have been coveted by Topical Collectors due to the images presented upon each, from butterflies, trains, cats, insects, etc. Since my father had inspired us to collect, he had also stressed the importance of properly organizing our collection. He recommended we go to the library to look up our stamps in the Reference Section therein. This is when we first came to be introduced to the Scott Catalogues. We were able to find some of our stamps, but quite few we couldn't even find whatsoever. Therefore, we kept these unidentified stamps in the back of our stock books. As time went on, I learned of CTOs (Canceled-to-Order) stamps, which many Communist Countries produced copious quantities of. These I was able to find within the Scott Catalogues but was not as fortunate for stamps from countries known to be of the Trucial States where CTOs are in abundance. The Trucial States were a group of seven Arabian sheikdoms – Abu Dhabi, Ajman (Manama), Dubai, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah, Sharjah, and Umm Al Quwain – which formed a British protected confederation from 1820 to 1971, when they united to become the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Many collectors at the time frowned upon collecting CTOs, especially those from Trucial States. This is a main reason Scott Catalogues does not list these stamps, since they are not considered Postally viable for use. However, many of us have these in our collections, and still desire to Catalogues them for posterity. I myself fall into this category. At about the Millenium I was introduced to Michel Catalogues (from Germany), of which are printed in German. Fortunately, I am able to read quite bit of German but still struggled through with some issues with translation. Back in 2014, I discovered some Michel Catalogues (very few) are also printed in English, so I ventured to acquire some copies of these. With this stated, I was delighted to discover the below Catalogue, and with the aid of this book I was able to chronologically & numerically catalog the CTOs from the Trucial States. Here's a sampling of what you can find within this Catalogue… If you are a collector of such as I, and wish to categorize such CTOs within your collection, you will find this book to be a boon. It will take some effort to find a copy, but with determination you may be able to find it. Be advised. it will not be cheap. You must be ready to pay anywhere from $50 to $100 for such a copy. Good luck on your sojourn to find this Catalogue. 11 hours ago By jblah…
	Greenland – My Halloween Post By jblaha 2 days ago \| Last Post: 2 days ago Forum Stamp Talk
	Happy Halloween to all Philatelists in our Stamp Community. With his stated, please submit an image along with a small write up of a stamp you have in your collection which depicts Halloween tales, fun or macabre (you decide). I myself have chosen to venture a journey down the path of macabre. Though not Halloween themed, I am hoping my selection will inspire others to post their selection(s) from their collection. The country of Greenland or Kalaallit Nunaat (Greenlandic) which is an autonomous territory of the Kingdom of Denmark, where the Polar Bear (largest species of bear & land carnivore by body mass) is prominently emblazoned upon their Coat of Arms. With the above stated, here is a stamp from my collection of which is part of a series (of Art) of stamps issued from 1980-87… This 3.70dkr stamp's art by K. Andreassen (1890-1934) titled "Polar Bear Killing Seal Hunter" was Engraved by Arne Kühlmann, designed by Jens Rosling. Greenland Scott # 117, Unwatermarked, Engraved, Perforation 13 was issued on February 9th, 1984. I myself find the image a bit disturbing, showing a human as prey to a large predator. Wouldn't you agree? For those who utilize other Catalogues in lieu of Scott, here are the most popular Catalogues out there along with this stamp’s Cat # for your reference… Michel # 147 Stanley Gibbons # 144 Yvert et Tellier # 135 I invite others to participate, let's see what is lurking within your collection. 2 days ago By jblah…
	Tsk, Tsk! Naughty Postage Use. By jblaha 3 days ago \| Last Post: 2 days ago Forum Stamp Talk
	@ryanjoneson Thank you More will come soon. 2 days ago By jblah… WOW these are great @jblaha ! I have a collection of counterfeit stamps including pre-modern. These are very neat. Can't wait to see more of your collection! 3 days ago By Ryan … Here's another peek into my collection; a few illegal Postage usages upon mail of which successfully went through USPS without being flagged for Postage Due. The audacity of some people whom of which definitely know what they are doing. The first one shows this individual used the label from a double-sided convertible booklet of stamps… The second one uses a single 1 cent stamp in lieu of a 1‑ounce First‑Class Mail letter Forever Stamp rate of .55 cents. I am sure the sender knew the going rate at the time, but sneakily under posted this letter to illicitly save .54 cents. The third and final one I have to show reaches a level audacity of "Ballsy" I'd say, by the use of a previously used stamp clearly torn from a manila envelope and then simply taped upon a fresh envelope for mailing… What really sticks in my craw is the above examples of illegal Postage use were sent by Attorneys. You would think they are familiar with the illegality of such. But since an Attorney "nickels and dimes" their clients, I am sure their bills did not reflect these costs. It is a shame these were not caught by USPS and returned for proper Postage. These are just another example of revenue loss suffered by the taxpayer, along with the copious counterfeit Postage from our friends in China. If anyone out there has other examples of illicit Postage use, please share. But remember to cover the addresses upon same so as not to invoke ire. 3 days ago By jblah…
	Block of 4, 10c yellow, Sassone #1, kingdom of Italy 1863 By 41ziggs 9 months ago \| Last Post: 3 days ago Forum Stamp Values
	@41ziggs My apologies for not responding sooner, at the time of your Post I was preparing to go onto retirement, otherwise I would have replied forthwith. What your image appears to show is a poorly printed stamps with "Inverted Head" wrought to deceive (a forgery). If authentic, this block of 4 would be as follows… Italian State – Sardinia, Scott # 11k (which would command a CV of $4000.00 each if it were authentic), issued in 1863, Unwatermarked, Imperforate, Typographed frame in color (bister), with a colorless embossed vignette (your example is Inverted). It is of King Vittorio Emanuele II who reigned from March 17th, 1861 to January 9th, 1878. The authentic version of these stamps was Designed and Printed by Francesco Matraire, in Torino (Turin), where the infamous "Shroud" is said to have been brought by Emmanuel Philibert, Duke of Savoy in 1578. I wish I had better news for you then what I mention above with relation to its authenticity. Though a fine addition to any collection as an example of a forgery. 3 days ago By jblah… Can anyone help with this stamps value? 9 months ago By 41zig… Block of 4, 10c yellow, Sassone #1, kingdom of Italy 1863 9 months ago By 41zig…
	Stampless Cover June 6th, 1815 From James Cox to Elie Beatty (Postal H… By jblaha 1 week ago \| Last Post: 4 days ago Forum Stamp Talk
	Very interesting and neat @jblaha Thanks for sharing! 4 days ago By Ryan … Though this is not a POSTAGE STAMP per se, such STAMPLESS COVERS are an interesting facet of philately. I am quite happy to have this item in my collection. Here's some technical info… A red "Baltimore Md." 30mm CDS (Circular Date Stamp) dated June 24th (1815) with a magenta manuscript "15" on a folded letter of which is datelined "Bank of Baltimore June 24th, 1815", addressed to "Elie Beatty, Cashier Hagerstown Bank" from James Cox, Cashier, Bank of Baltimore Maryland." This is an example of the War (of 1812) Rate which went into effect February 1st, 1815 to March 30th, 1816; Distance of 40 to 90 miles, a single letter sheet, 15 cents. This was a 50% increase of the previous rate of 10 cents. The distance from Baltimore to Hagerstown is 74 miles. Here are some links you may find of interest pertaining to Elie Beatty (recipient of this letter), whom of which correspondence relating to him is prolifically documented and collected… A Youtube video… Elie Beatty Cashier of the Hagerstown Bank: 1807-1859 Another link related to the above Youtube Link… Philatelic Society of Lancaster County: Elie Beatty Cashier of the Hagerstown Bank (1807-1859) – The Digital Philatelist A couple of Links pertaining to Elie Beatty's Bio for your review… Elie Beatty hagerstown maryland 1815 – Search Elie Beatty (1776–1859) Below are some links pertaining to the extensive collections held by Old Dominion University, as well as the University of Maryland… Collection: Elie Beatty Papers \| Special Collections and University Archives Collection Guides Collection: Hagerstown Bank collection \| Archival Collections Now for some links pertaining to the James Cox (sender of this letter), though not as extensively documented as Elie – take a look… James Cox Baltimore Maryland 1815 – Search <a href="http://mdsa.net">Maryland State Archives</a><br><a href="http://speccol.mdarchives.state.md.us/msa/speccol/catalog/cfm/dsp_unit.cfm?speccol=5923&box_no=&folderno=&serno=1&item=1&level=item&id=106524">Baltimore City Directory, 1814-1815</a><br>, msa_sc5923_1_1-0060 1815 JAMES COX CASHIER BANK OF BALTIMORE TO HAGERSTOWN MD STMPLS LTTR CVR \| #1783525895 I hope you enjoyed this peek into my collection and has inspired other collectors who just collect postage stamps to branch out to Postal History (Stampless and Franked (stamped covers). If you have such items in your collection, please post them with a small write up so others can also have a peek into your philatelic collection. Thank you. 1 week ago By jblah…
	WWII australia stamps By ruebabes 10 months ago \| Last Post: 4 days ago Forum Stamp Values
	As @ryanjoneson stated, these are examples of specimen stamps. Postage Stamps or Postal Stationary Indicium overprinted with the word "SPECIMEN" are sent to Postmasters and Postal Administrations so these entities are able to identify valid stamps and to avoid forgeries. This is the usual method of invalidating the stamps by either overprinting in ink or perforating the word "SPECIMEN" across the stamp. As for a Catalogue Value, I unfortunately am unable to locate such listings specifically referencing "SPECIMEN" stamps for Australia. My apologies. 4 days ago By jblah… Thanks for sharing! I'm not familiar with values of Australian Specimen stamps. In the US there are some that can be valuable, and others not so much. They were made for proofing stamp designs and prints before making them public, so they were not used for mailing. Maybe someone else in the community will have more knowledge of value on these. 9 months ago By Ryan … here is the picture of them 10 months ago By rueba…
	France 1871 15 centimes stamp: identification and value? By DoubleA 11 months ago \| Last Post: 4 days ago Forum Stamp Values
	EUREKA! I have found the stamp upon your Post's image… It is France Scott # 538 – CV used is .25 cents as noted upon Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue 2026. It is from a series of French stamps titled "Ceres Mazelin", this specific stamp was issued on July 21st, 1946 (demonetized on January 21st, 1948) Unwatermarked, in Typography, perf 14×13.5. A quantity of 211,070,000 stamps was printed. The Designer is Charles Mazelin (hence the series title), and the Engraver is Henri Cortot. If you utilize other Catalogues in lieu of Scott, here are the most popular Catalogues out there along with this stamp's Cat # for your reference… Michel # 688 Stanley Gibbons # 916 Yvert et Tellier # 681 @doublea if you have more you desire information for please send more images. 4 days ago By jblah… I am a bit stymied on this one, even after checking my Yvert et Tellier catalogs, I am still perplexed. Possibly a revenue issue, though the design of the stamp upon your post is not reflected upon Colnet site's revenue listings (revenue stamp designs are what is usually expected). Stamps of 1871 had "REPUB-FRANC" not "REPUBLIQUE-FRANCAISE" which started around 1876. Additionally, the stamp shown is not 15 centimes, it appears to be 2 Francs 50 centimes. My apologies, I'll keep snooping around. 2 weeks ago By jblah… Hello there. I can't locate this particular stamp. My app says it's a 1871 15c Bister France Stamp but I don't think it's correct. I looked on the internet but I can't locate this one. Thanks. 11 months ago By Doubl…
	How to Detect Damage, Altered, and Repaired Stamps – By Paul W. Schmid By jblaha 1 week ago \| Last Post: 5 days ago Forum Resources & Literature
	Just found this book on ebay for "$32.75 0r Best Offer" if anyone is interested – see link below… How To Detect Damaged, Altered, And Repaired Stamps by Paul W. Schmid (1979… \| eBay 5 days ago By jblah… So, you find a stamp which you believe may be a lucrative find. But you are apprehensive to send it to be expertised, and you do not have the funds to purchase all the necessary reference books out there which can be quite costly. And you find yourself saying, "I wish there was a book out there to enlighten me and not cost an arm & a leg." Well your wish has come true, in 105 pages of easily digestible information. The late Paul W. Schmid's new edition explains how to detect alterations that can drastically affect a stamp's value and how to recognize regummed, reperforated, repaired and otherwise altered stamps. Avoiding costly mistakes…. Here's sampling of the content this book offers… There are sellers out there which are asking astronomical prices, but a persistent individual searching may be lucky as I was to find this book at its cover value of $17.00. If you do get your hands on one at a price without putting you a poorhouse, the effort will be well worth it. 1 week ago By jblah…
	US #143L7 Pony Express?? Authentic? By Summit Stamps 2 weeks ago \| Last Post: 1 week ago Forum Stamp Identification
	Thanks Ryan! I’ll post a picture of the back soon. Might just send it in to PSE regardless and see what they think. Thanks again for your insight Sir! -Darin 1 week ago By Summi… Nice find! The design is the Wells Fargo & Co. Pony Express 10 cent brown, the "running pony" issue with "Enclosed in our Franks" at the bottom, which matches Scott 143L7. Whether it's genuine is the hard part. These Wells Fargo stamps were widely reprinted and forged, and a cancel doesn't settle it either, because fake and reprinted copies were cancelled too. A few things that would help: Post a photo of the back, and a close-up of the cancel.Compare the fine engraving lines in the background and in the pony's legs against a known genuine copy. Forgeries usually look coarser or blurrier.If it checks out, get a certificate (Philatelic Foundation or APS) before buying, selling or insuring it. That's standard for Western express stamps.It's a great piece of history either way. Thanks for sharing it! 2 weeks ago By Ryan … Any thoughts on this one? I found this in an old BOB stock book I bought from a dealer in Indiana. I’m curious of your thoughts. Is it genuine? Possibly a reprint or a fake. It appears used so I’m doubting it’s a fake but I’m certainly no expert on these old Wells Fargo stamps. 2 weeks ago By Summi…
	4c Project Mercury By WCD 1 week ago \| Last Post: 1 week ago Forum Stamp Values
	You have US Scott # 1193, Perf. 11 issued February 20, 1962. According to Scott Specialized Catalogue of Stamps and Covers 2025 the Catalog Values for a MNH single is .35 cents, a Plate # Block of 4 is $1.00. Your image appears to be a full sheet of 50 of which is currently on offer on Ebay for $2.29 – see link below… SCOTT 1193 PROJECT MERCURY 4 CENT M NH FULL SHEET OF 50 \| eBay My apologies this will not break the bank, but is a nice sheet to start a collection with. 1 week ago By jblah… Trying to find source for appraisal and Scott number of collection. 1 week ago By WCD
	Estate Sale Shoe Box Find By tc_athens 5 months ago \| Last Post: 1 week ago Forum Stamp Values
	I notice you have numerous Precancels. These are the stamps with the City & States emblazoned between two black bars. I personally seek such items out in an attempt to complete a State's run. Some States are well into the hundreds of varieties when considering font size and type, inverts, single or double bars, etc. Check out this link if you are interested… – Precancel Stamp Society There are quite a few individuals who solely delve into this facet of Philately. Have fun collecting. 1 week ago By jblah… While some of these are over 100 years old, they are all common and have no monetary value unless graded. That said I agree with @rsb_stamps to enjoy them and possibly allow them to grow your curiosity into the hobby and learn more! Oh and the ones with the horizontal black bars and city names are called pre-cancels and they were used by businesses which allowed them to put mail into the delivery route without needing to go through the cancellation process. 4 months ago By Ryan … I have many (if not all) of these and multiple ones. All I can say is don't quit your day job 🙂 Just enjoy the stamps. BTW bought similar ones also – not in a shoe box but cigar box…(paid $10) at an estate sale in Georgia… 5 months ago By RSB_S…
	Hobby Burn Out. What Other Hobbies Do You Enjoy When Not Stamping? By jblaha 1 week ago \| Last Post: 1 week ago Forum Stamp Talk
	Many of us have experienced hobby burn out, which leads to us taking a break. Sometimes the length of this break is days, weeks, months, or even years. How many times have you heard from other collectors they have revisited their collecting habits after just such a break. Our Stamp Collecting hobby can at times feel more like a job, but it shouldn't. We do this for fun. When I find a break can be a valid choice. I myself seek out other hobbies which pique my interest – such hobbies I delve into for a break in my collecting are… 1. Role playing games, such as Dungeons & Dragons & Call of Cthulhu. 2. Tabletop Wargaming, such as Historical (Hail Ceasar), Fantasy & Science Fiction (Kings of War & Warhammer (Age of Sigmar & 40K). 3. Miniature collecting painting and terrain building. But inevitably I always return to my Love – Philately. Please share what other hobbies you delve into when a break is found to be in need. Here are a few images of my other hobbies… 1 week ago By jblah…
	Foreign stamps with foreign language can’t read By Sunny4 6 months ago \| Last Post: 2 weeks ago Forum Stamp Identification
	I have used the Camera function of Google Translate App. on my Cellphone which usually helps me. I was stymied by an Albanian Stamp thinking it was an Airmail (it was not) – it turned out to be Cinderella. 2 weeks ago By jblah… @ryanjoneson I agree with you. Once I know the country I pull out my Scott's catalogs and verify the stamp and Scott's number. Google Images is a great tool but we need the catalogs to take it from there. 4 months ago By frogg… Yes Google images is a handy tool. However you have to be cautious of the source, as there are tons of misidentified stamps floating all across the web. 4 months ago By Ryan … view all posts
	Why did Irish stamp catalog values drop (Scott 66)? By TonyDeAngel 10 months ago \| Last Post: 2 weeks ago Forum Stamp Values
	Scott Catalog can be frustrating at times, such as retiring various numbers which once were, and numbering changes. This also goes with their Catalog values (CVs). Every now and then CV changes Up & Down for some Countries. Each year's catalog publishes a section of the catalog listing such changes. But this can only be useful if you can afford a full set annually (which most of us cannot). My last full set was 2013, and US Specialized 2014, before acquiring a full set of 2026, and a US Specialized 2025. Because of the large gap in annual sets, there are various changes which you'll find yourself unaware of. This, I am sure can be very frustrating for Stamp Dealers. This is why I also acquire Michel Catalogs from Germany – they are more consistent and list stamps which are totally ignored by Scott. 2 weeks ago By jblah… What happened to the common stamps for Irish stamps. In 2020 Scott #66 was valued at $1.50, Scott #68 was $ .75, Scott 107, 109, 111, 112 and 113 were valued at $1.40 each. All of them in the Scott 2026 catalogue are now at the $.25 minimum stamp value. There are many other price reductions for Ireland. Anybody know why Scott reduced so many of the Irish stamps? 10 months ago By TonyD…
	Mystery stamp #1: can you name this one? By Ryan Joneson 2 weeks ago \| Last Post: 2 weeks ago Forum Stamp Identification
	Answer: Scott #119, the 15 cent Landing of Columbus, Type II, issued in 1869. Congratulations @jblaha, and welcome back! You got it first and nailed the bonus too. As you explained, the 15 cent Columbus comes in three versions: Scott #118 (Type I), Scott #119 (Type II) and the later Scott #129 re-issue, and the shading lines beside the vignette are one of the quickest ways to tell them apart. Thanks for taking the time to write it up so clearly. You can see photos, specs and current values on our catalog page for Scott #119. Mystery stamp #2 is coming soon. Have one you would like the community to try? Post it in Stamp Identification. 2 weeks ago By Ryan … It has been sometime since I have posted upon this forum – I've been enjoying my recent retirement. Now to your Mystery Stamp… The specific stamp shown upon this post is US Scott # 119 Type II, issued in 1869 (earliest documented use April 5, 1869). The vignette shows "The Landing of Columbus" As for the Bonus query – there are three versions of this stamp, as follows… First one is US Scott # 118 Type I, this version has horizontal shading lines at the left and right sides of the vignette. In addition, at the peak of the border shaped somewhat like the upper part of a triangle is located below the first period in "U.S." and immediately under the "T" of "POSTAGE" is where this area has few or no shading lines. The second one is the stamp shown upon your post Ryan, as stated above it is US Scott # 119 Type II. This version has diagonal shading lines at the left and right sides of the vignette. In addition, at the peak of the border below the first period in "U.S." and immediately under the "T" of "POSTAGE" a diamond is formed by the brown frame lines. The third version is US Scott #129 Type III, which is very similar to US Scott # 118 Type I, but without the shading lines at each side of the vignette. I hope this reply hits all the marks. Reference Material used for the above reply isas follows… 1. Scott Specialized Catalog of US Stamps & Covers 2025 2. Scott Identification Guide to US Stamps, Regular Issues 1847-1934 6th Edition 2 weeks ago By jblah… Time for a quick identification challenge. Can you name this U.S. stamp? Tell us: The Scott numberThe year it was issuedWhat the design showsBonus point if you can explain how to tell it apart from its closest look-alike. I will post the answer here on Monday, October 12. Want to check your own stamps? The free Scott catalog on Stamp Collectors has photos and values for U.S. issues. 2 weeks ago By Ryan …
	Can anyone help ID these stamps and their value By Sleighbell 3 months ago \| Last Post: 2 weeks ago Forum Stamp Identification
	You may wish to utilize this site's Stamp Identification – Very helpful and easy to use. Or you can use the Free Catalog offered by Mystic Stamp Company – see link below… SC1T – Mystic Stamp Catalog – Mystic Stamp Company But keep in mind, you will be inundated by their marketing department with offers. 2 weeks ago By jblah… thanks for sharing. these are all from the 1960s/1970s. all unused united states stamps issued after 1935 are worth face value. 3 months ago By Ryan … Can anyone help ID these stamps and their value 3 months ago By Sleig…
	Looking for more info, and value. I also have many more! Thanks in adv… By RobertH 2 months ago \| Last Post: 2 weeks ago Forum Stamp Values
	I recommend checking out the website 'Stamp Smarter" to identify each one. There are numerous varieties within each type your images show. 2 weeks ago By jblah… Looking for more info, and value. I also have many more! Thanks in advance 2 months ago By Rober…
	Bayern 3 1876-1911 By jhalvorsen 1 year ago \| Last Post: 2 weeks ago Forum Stamp Values
	The stamp upon your post is… Bavaria Scott # 60; Watermark 95h, perf. 14 x 14.5; Issued in the year 1900. 2026 Scott Catalog Value for a used copy is .65 cents. Unused mint is .30 cents. I hope this info proves beneficial. 2 weeks ago By jblah… Bayern 3 from dates of 1876/1911. Estimate of value? 1 year ago By jhalv…
	Stamp of the Week: the 1851 3c Washington (Scott 11) By Ryan Joneson 3 weeks ago \| Last Post: 3 weeks ago Forum Stamp Talk
	Each week we pick one stamp from the catalog and open it up for discussion. This week is Scott #11, the 3 cent George Washington imperforate printed by Toppan, Carpenter, Casilear & Co. and used from 1851 to 1857. About 140 million were issued to pay the 3 cent letter rate, so it is one of the most common classic U.S. stamps. That is exactly what makes it fun: shades, plate varieties, margins and cancels all change what a copy is worth. A quick tip: the earlier Scott #10 and #10A are orange brown, while #11 is dull red. Cancels and dates help too. Your turn: Have a Scott #11? Post a photo, front and back.What is the best cancel you have seen on one?Four margins or cut into the design: how much does that change the price in your experience?New to the 1851 issue? Post yours and the community will help you confirm which stamp you have. 3 weeks ago By Ryan …

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