Welcome to the Stamp Collectors Community! Ask stamp collecting questions like identification, values, and more. If you have questions regarding buying and selling in the Stamp Collectors Stamp Shop part of our website, visit our main Support page.

By participating in this community, you agree to all of the community guidelines and policies.

Notifications

Clear all

Recent Posts

Topics with their latest replies in reversed order
	Stamp Perforation Gauges – Beginner Friendly By jblaha 4 days ago \| Last Post: 8 hours ago Forum Stamp Identification
	@ryanjoneson Thank you, I was working on something for Watermark Detection, but I see you have already covered this on this Forum Site quite well. Therefore, I nixed my effort on this topic for now. Will pull something out once I land a Topic to cover. 8 hours ago By jblah… Looking forward to them @jblaha. Beginner friendly posts like your perf gauge one are exactly what new members need. 12 hours ago By Ryan … @ryanjoneson No problem at all. I shall endeavor to tackle other "Beginner Friendly" topics in the near future, in an effort to help newcomers to this historically long-lived hobby. 3 days ago By jblah… view all posts
	YABBA DABBA DOO! Flintstones and Their Mongolian Fan Audience By jblaha 3 days ago \| Last Post: 8 hours ago Forum Stamp Talk
	@ryanjoneson I see in Scott Catalogue Mongolia issued a series on the Jetsons as well – Don't have those as yet but one day. 8 hours ago By jblah… This one made me smile @jblaha. Mongolia has put out a lot of pop culture topicals over the years, and the Flintstones set is one of the more fun ones to stumble across in a collection. And your dad's claim about learning English from Fred and Barney is too good not to believe. 12 hours ago By Ryan … To add a bit of personal levity, my father always claimed he learned English by watching The Flintstones. I find it not to be believable since he immigrated to USA in 1947 from Czechoslovakia in 1947, escaping the newly formed Communist Government after WWII. 2 days ago By jblah…
	Canada’s Hoodoo Boo-Boo By jblaha 1 day ago \| Last Post: 8 hours ago Forum Stamp Values
	@ryanjoneson Thank you, I recall when this story broke in Linn's Stamp News, prompting me to seek these out before the prices soared. Got 2 booklets and a souvenir sheet at cut rate price – I believe it was about $ 20-$25 for all three items. 8 hours ago By jblah… Ha, great title @jblaha. I love error stories like this, where the stamp is fine but the picture is in the wrong place. Hoodoos from Drumheller standing in for Dinosaur Provincial Park is a pretty understandable mix-up, but I can see why Albertans noticed right away. Thanks for sharing this one. 12 hours ago By Ryan … Once again, I pull back the curtain to give you a peek into my collection – I hope you enjoy this one. On July 3rd, 2015, Canada Post issued the UNESCO World Heritage Sites stamp series consisting of a Booklet of six (6) stamps and a souvenir sheet of five (5) stamps. This was the third set in a series of stamps commemorating the seventeen (17) UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Canada. The Souvenir Sheet, Canada Scott # 2844a (MiNr: 3272; SG: Unlisted) is Moisture Activated, Unwatermarked, Offset Lithography, Perforation 12 ½ and the Booklet, Canada Scott # 2845 (MiNr: 3277; SG: 3142) is Self-Adhesive, Perforation Serpentine Die Cut 13 ½. Both the Souvenir Sheet and the Booklet were Designed by Lara Minja, Printed by The Lowe-Martin Group on Paper with Tullis Russell Coatings (TRC) with Fluorescent Frame. All was going well until complaints came rolling in from the Canadian citizens referencing a photographic image presented upon one of the stamps. The stamp meant to depict Dinosaur Provincial Park actually showed hoodoos located near Drumheller, about 60 miles away. UNESCO themed stamps are intended to accurately represent protected heritage sites this misidentified image undermined the authenticity of the series. “Hoodoos” geologic formations are oddly shaped rock spires formed by erosion, often consisting of softer rock topped by harder rock, which protects the column. The hoodoos in Drumheller are iconic and widely photographed, which likely contributed to the mix‑up. Hoodoos do exist in Dinosaur Provincial Park, but the specific formation pictured was unmistakably from Drumheller, a well‑known area by locals and tourists alike. Both Drumheller and Dinosaur Provincial Park are part of Alberta’s Badlands, but they are distinct geological areas separated by more than an hour’s drive. After this error was discovered, the Souvenir Sheets and Booklets were withdrawn from sale on July 6th, 1025. Then the day after, on July 7th, 2015, Canada Post recalled the stamp nationwide, pulling it from post offices and ordering destruction of remaining stock. Since the recall happened only three days after release, surviving copies became a highly sought after error stamp in the Philatelic Market. These Error Souvenir Sheets & Booklets are now considered rare, with some selling for hundreds of dollars depending on condition. And the First Day Cancelled error sheets are especially prized because they were issued before the recall, unfortunately I was not able to get my hands upon any example at the time. To rectify this embarrassing error Canada Post issued the corrected version August 21st, 2015, of both the Souvenir Sheets and Booklets featuring the actual Dinosaur Provincial Park. The Souvenir Sheet, Canada Scott # 2857a (MiNr: 3289; SG: Unlisted; Yt: 3155) and the Booklet, Canada Scott # 2858 (MiNr: 3290; SG: 3143; Yt: 3160) were designed and printed in the same manner as the errors these replace. I hope you enjoyed this Post as much as I have researching it. Till the next time I unveil a selection from my collection… Keep On Collecting 1 day ago By jblah…
	Need help identifying these 2 stamps By California Kid 3 days ago \| Last Post: 2 days ago Forum Stamp Identification
	@california-kid Please let me know what you find at those points of interest, I believe I do see the "SECRET MARK" as well as hints of the Shading referenced above – although all can be faintly seen. I recommend using your cellphone camera with the MACRO MODE (that's the little Flower thingy) for better detail to be photographed, or a scanner with a minimum of 600dpi. I wish I was more Tech Savvy so I could explain this better. 2 days ago By jblah… @ryanjoneson no problem. @california-kid Jim, I downloaded the photo upon your Post, specifically the left-hand image and am unable to see any indication of a Grill. Not taking into account the Light Test, and the Flick Test – Let me know whether you desire to know more about these methods for determining Hard or Soft Paper – Here’s my quick assessment… Checking the Pearl to the left of the numeral “1” of the image upon your Post, I have exploded this area and have enhanced it as best I could, though it remains quite blurry, there appears to be a faint “DASH” within the Pearl, this is the “SECRET MARK” (see exploded images below): I recommend you check this with a Magnifying Glass or Loop to ascertain whether you see this… Now, looking at the upper left corner of your image, it appears there is shading added to the Pearl and Arabesques, again here are the exploded versions: I recommend you check this with a Magnifying Glass or Loop to ascertain whether you see this… Based on what I can see from the above two exploded images, though blurry leaves me to assess this as US Scott # 206. My reasoning for this assessment this is US Scott 206 is due to the “SECRET MARK” which is present within the Pearl to the left of the numeral “1” and the presence of shading added to the upper left corner Pearl and the upper left Arabesques. All other versions (US Scott 145, 156, 167, 182, ad 192) have clear upper left corner Pearl & Arabesques, like this… Let me know what you find with the Magnifying Glass or Loop. I hope the above proves beneficial to your needs. Keep On Collecting 2 days ago By jblah… Hi Jim, good pair! These are two different Franklin 1 cent designs. The one on the right is the 1890 issue, Scott 219. The one on the left is the earlier Bank Note design from the 1870s, and that one takes a little more detective work, because the same design was printed by several companies and catalogs under different numbers (134, 145, 156, 182 and the re-engraved 206). Flip it over and check for a grill (a small waffle pattern pressed into the paper). If there is no grill, the paper and the shading lines on the front narrow it down from there. @jblaha would love your eye on the left one too. 3 days ago By Ryan …
	Competitive Pricing Guidelines for Condition of Stamps (US & WW) By jblaha 6 days ago \| Last Post: 5 days ago Forum Stamp Values
	Great topic @jblaha, and one I think about a lot as a dealer. Condition drives price more than anything else, and a lot of overpriced listings come down to sellers pricing a damaged copy like a sound one. Having a consistent guideline like the APS one is a big help for both sides of the table. For anyone selling here on the Stamp Collectors marketplace, this is a good read before you price your listings. And I love that you are setting this up for Nathaniel, that is how the hobby keeps going. 5 days ago By Ryan … When suffering from a bout of ennui – I usually turn to reading old articles from either the American Philatelist or Linn's Stamp News. While doing so some time ago, I ran across an excellent short article published in the May 2018 issue of the American Philatelist written by Wendy Masorti, Sales Director for the American Philatelist Society (APS) at the time on pages 480-3. How many times have you seen a stamp on eBay or other Seller's Platforms for sale where the image(s) show the item is not in any condition to be sold at the pricing requested by the seller, or the reserve minimum bid is ridiculously astronomical. I have seen stamps for sale which are better described as "Space Filler" and in no way should such pricing be applied for an item which is an afront to one's senses. Yes, it may be a stamp you desire to complete a set you may have been seeking for so time. But to buy such an item at this price makes you feel a fool. Many sellers out there, ask for prices which are far from competitive for the said condition which is evident. If you are a collector and find yourself contemplating to sell an item(s), I recommend checking out this article in the American Philatelist as a Competitive Pricing Guideline for Condition for the stamp(s) you intend for sale. In fact, Ms. W. Masorti states in the article's introductory paragraphs this is the guidelines used by APS Sales Department. And I believe so should all sellers. I now utilize these guidelines for assessing my stamps in my collection for the adjusted Catalogue Values based on condition for posterity, so my family upon my demise can know what to value my collection. I intend to leave my collection to my grandson Nathaniel (8 years) who already shows an interest in collecting such items as Pokémon cards where his dad and I point out condition is of import on keeping such collectibles, we show him my collections as an example. With the above stated, we members of the American Philatelic Society have access to digital copies of old magazine issues. If you are interested in this article and a current cohort to our group of member Philatelists, check it out it. It is a good read. If you are not a member already, it may be prudent choice to join this fine organization, you can then have the ability to have access to not just this article and many others, as well as all the other perks offered by membership to the American Philatelic Society. I hope to see you there. Keep on Collecting. 6 days ago By jblah…
	The Higgins & Gage World Postal Stationery Catalog By jblaha 1 week ago \| Last Post: 1 week ago Forum Resources & Literature
	The Higgins & Gage World Postal Stationery Catalog is the standard global reference for postal stationery, published in 19 alphabetical volumes (more like pamphlets actually) between 1964 and 1989 and still widely used by collectors despite being long out of print. These catalogue volumes are the most recent encyclopedic worldwide reference for postal stationery, covering stamped envelopes, postal cards, lettercards, wrappers, aerograms, and registration envelopes. For the United States of America in lieu of the Higgins & Gage, I recommend utilizing Scott Specialized Catalogue of United States Stamps and Covers, which is the definitive single‑volume reference for U.S. philately, updated annually offering more than 100 specialized sections and far deeper coverage. In addition, Michel Catalogues from Germany offer specialized catalogues for Austria, Germany, Europe as a whole, etc. updated periodically. Such can be located on eBay by typing in “Ganzsachen-Katalog” (Postal Stationary Catalogue) but expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $100. Though, Higgins & Gage remain the dominant standard reference numbering system used by philatelists and dealers, auction houses, & exhibitions, most volumes have not been updated for over 35 years and the printed valuations are outdated. Sections for countries beginning with “A” (including Australian States and Australasia) are available separately and include detailed listings for postal cards, envelopes, letter sheets, wrappers, and even specialized items like pneumatic post and COD forms. The American Philatelic Research Library holds copies pf Higgins & Gage. Partial digital files (e.g., Japan, Manchukuo) have appeared in online listings, and can prove quite elusive. A complete 10‑volume “Classic Philatelics” edition (1970s, updated 1984) was sold on eBay, described as “out of print and rarely seen” at prices which can be a burden upon anyone’s wallet. Cross reference tools exist to map Higgins & Gage numbering system to other catalogues which are also difficult to uncover online. We here at the “Stamp Collectors Community” are always willing to help fellow Philatelists with their Stamp Collecting interests and queries. Thank you 1 week ago By jblah…
	Republik Maluku Selatan Stamps? By jblaha 1 week ago \| Last Post: 1 week ago Forum Stamp Identification
	You just receive a large Kiloware of Worldwide Stamps and you commence separating them into numerous neat piles on your kitchen table by country of origin. But wait, what’s this? One of those piles consist of stamps from a country you never heard of, nor am able to locate in any of your Catalogues. The country is “Republik Maluku Selatan” (RMS), also known as “The Republic of the South Moluccas”. It is an unrecognized secessionist state of Indonesia that has maintained a government‑in‑exile in the Netherlands since April 12th, 1966. The RMS originally declared its independence from Indonesia on April 25th, 1950 by leaders of the Ambon, Buru, & Seram islands, based on a 1949 Dutch–Indonesian treaty that promised federal autonomy. After Indonesian forces defeated the RMS in 1950 and later suppressed their movement, the secessionists withdrew to Seram and continued armed resistance until 2 December 2nd, 1963. Following the capture and execution of RMS president (Christopher Soumokil) by Indonesian authorities in 1965, the RMS leadership then fled to the Netherlands in 1966, where they established their official seat of government. To this day this government in-exile fails to be recognized by Indonesia or any United Nation member state. The “Republik Maluku Selatan” never issued official postage stamps, but many items bearing this country’s name exist. Major Catalogues such as Michel and Scott do not recognize them as valid postage stamps. Publishers (Amos) of Scott Catalogue, state these stamps as “privately issued and had no postal use… not recognized as postage stamps”. While Michel Catalogue states them to be considered “merely bogus stamps… should not be offered except explicitly as “Schwindelausgaben” (swindle issues). Who is responsible for the copious quantities of these stamps on today’s market? His name is, Henry Stolow. He was widely known for creating and marketing bogus and fantasy stamp issues that mimicked legitimate postage, often sold to collectors through his New York and Munich wholesale operations. He alone conceived, commissioned, and distributed these items, which today are recognized as non‑postal vignettes with historical interest but no philatelic legitimacy. His unauthorized production of approximately 150 Maluku Selatan issues was done at the Österreichische Staatsdruckerei in Vienna (Austrian State Printing Works) and widely appeared on the market around 1955. They were produced without any postal authority, date of issue, or governmental sanction. Österreichische Staatsdruckerei (Vienna) itself is a major Austrian security printer, historically responsible for banknotes, official documents, and some postage stamps. In this case, it printed Stolow’s material as a private commercial job, not as official postage. Stolow’s RMS issues (animals, flowers, UN, MacArthur) flooded the market in Europe and the U.S., often sold cheaply or given away as colorful “exotic” stamps. In Austria, leftover printed stock reportedly ended up in stationery shop giveaway packets. Modern Philatelic expert organizations classify Stolow’s RMS issues and similar productions as Cinderellas. Many collectors still enjoy them for their designs and backstory. You can still find large inventories appear on StampWorld’s site with low nominal prices (often USD 0.28–5.59 per value), as well as eBay listings showing mixed sets, often marketed as “MNH” or “local issues”. Some varieties exist, including imperforate versions, perforation differences, and color variations. If you decide to keep these, and I recommend you do so for posterity, treat them a Cinderellas. 1 week ago By jblah…
	Stampless Cover March 1846 – Letter Rate Quandary & Interesting Recipi… By jblaha 2 weeks ago \| Last Post: 1 week ago Forum Stamp Talk
	@ryanjoneson Thank you for your insight, this explanation assuages this dilemma which has been nibbling at the back of my mind for some time. 1 week ago By jblah… Love this one @jblaha, and those blue Geneva markings are great looking. On the quandary, I think the 130 mile figure is the catch. Geneva sits out in the Finger Lakes, and the mail would have gone east by post road to Albany and then down the Hudson. That works out to well over 300 miles, which would put it right in the 10 cent bracket. Even as the crow flies it is over 200 miles. My understanding is that rates were figured on the post route the mail actually traveled, not the straight line distance, but I would love to hear from anyone who knows the 1845 rate rules better than I do. 1 week ago By Ryan … Here is yet another peek into my collection I hope you will enjoy as much as I do. Unfortunately there are condition issues with this letter, such as tears and staining, but I am still happy with it as is. This Stampless Cover bearing a blue 30mm diameter Geneva NY CDS dated March 4th (1846), a blue “PAID” auxiliary mark, as well as a blue “10” cent Postage Letter Rate. This Stampless Cover was sent by an R. Whiting from Geneva NY to William Bard Esquire of Port NY on March 4th, 1846. The content of this correspondence is business related, referring to monetary sums in transaction. All written upon a single page of parchment. At the time (1846) this correspondence was sent, the Letter Rates (established on July 1st, 1845) was 5 cents for distances not more than 300 miles, and 10 cents for more than this. In 1846, the distance between Geneva, New York, and Port New York (Lower Manhattan) was about 130 miles by water via the Erie Canal and Hudson River, according to the 1846 Mitchell “New Map of New York” which marked steamboat route distances. Geneva NY was a major port on the Genesee River, connected to the Erie Canal at Lockport. While Port New York referred to the harbor area in Lower Manhattan, the main entry point for ships from the Hudson River. The most direct 1846 route was by steamboat: Travel up the Erie Canal from Geneva to Lockport (about 10 miles). Continue by canal to Buffalo (about 140 miles from Geneva). From Buffalo, follow the Niagara River and Lake Erie to the Hudson River at Albany, then down the Hudson to New York City. However, the Mitchell map’s “steamboat distances” show a more direct water route via the Erie Canal and Hudson, which in 1846 was roughly 130 miles from Geneva to Port New York. Why does this matter? This distance reflects the transportation reality of 1846, when railroads were still limited in the region and waterways were the primary long-distance transport. The Erie Canal, completed in 1825, was the key link between the Great Lakes and the Atlantic, and steamboats could cover the 130 miles in a day or two depending on conditions. To summarize, in 1846, Geneva, NY, to Port New York was about 130 miles by water via the Erie Canal and Hudson River, as shown on the Mitchell 1846 map The overland distance from Geneva, New York, to Port New York (Lower Manhattan) was roughly 130–140 miles by the most direct stagecoach route, according to Samuel Augustus Mitchell’s 1846 New Map of New York and contemporary travel data. In 1846, Geneva was a major stagecoach hub on the Erie Canal, and Port New York (the port in Manhattan) was reached via the Hudson River or by land through the city. The most direct overland route in 1846 would have been: Geneva, NY along the Erie Canal to Albany via the Hudson River route or inland roads to New York City. This path followed the canal and then the Hudson River corridor, which was the standard stagecoach and freight route. Mitchell’s map lists distances between key points along these routes. Using the 1846 scale and the recorded segment distances (Geneva–Albany ≈ 100 miles, Albany–New York City ≈ 30–40 miles), the total overland distance is about 130–140 miles. In 1846, stagecoaches averaged 20–25 miles per day overland, so the trip would have taken about 6–7 days by horse-drawn stagecoach, depending on stops and conditions. Why does this matter? This distance reflects the transportation network of the mid‑19th century, where the Erie Canal and Hudson River route were the primary overland and waterborne links between the Finger Lakes region and New York City. The 1846 map is a primary source for reconstructing these distances, as modern road maps do not reflect the 19th‑century route. To summarize, in 1846, the overland distance from Geneva, NY, to Port New York was about 130–140 miles by the main stagecoach route, based on Mitchell’s 1846 map and historical travel data. So why was “10” cents charged as the Postage Letter Rate, since the distance was well under the 300 miles rate differential? If someone can enlighten me on this quandary, I would greatly appreciate it. The destination of “Port New York” at the time of 1846 for this Letter also proves interesting for Postal Historians. It was the main harbor and customs entry point for ships arriving in New York City, which was then the capital of New York State and the largest port in the United States. It was not a single building but the entire harbor area in Lower Manhattan, including the South Street Harbor and surrounding waterfront, where vessels docked for customs inspection, loading/unloading, and passenger embarkation. The port was in New York City, in New York County (now Manhattan), on the East River and Hudson River waterfront. In 1846, the city’s boundaries included what is now Manhattan, parts of the Bronx, and some of Brooklyn, but the port itself was centered in Lower Manhattan. It functioned as the official port of entry for all ships arriving in New York. At the time there was no Ellis Island as yet (built 1892). Immigrants and passengers were processed at customs houses and wharves in Lower Manhattan, often near South Street and the South Street Harbor. In summary, Port New York was the main harbor and customs area in Lower Manhattan, New York City, serving as the official entry point for ships and passengers. It was located in New York County on the East River, and all official immigration and customs records for that year refer to this harbor as the “Port of New York”. Now let us discuss the recipient of this correspondence: William Bard Esquire… He was born on April 4, 1778 in Philadelphia to Dr. Samuel Bard, a noted doctor in Manhattan and president of the College of Physicians and Surgeons. Both Dr. Samuel Bard and his father Dr. John Bard were personal friends of George Washington. William graduated from Columbia College, New York, in 1798 and began the study of law under Judge Maturin Livington. He married Catharine Cruger on October 7, 1802 in Trinity Church, Manhattan and they took up residence in Hyde Park, New York. William's father had turned over to his son a large estate in that area and together with a large fortune that his wife received from her grandmother, Madame du Nully of San Croix, West Indies, they were independently wealthy.About 1826 the Bards sold their dwelling place and estate in Hyde Park to Dr. David Hosack and moved to New York City, then consisting of only Manhattan, and then to Staten Island. He was urged to take the position of president of Columbia College but declined the offer. He later founded the New York Life Insurance and Trust Company and was its first president. He was the first of his family to reside on Staten Island and purchased a large piece of property and built a house in West New Brighton, on the north shore of the island, at Bard Ave. (which was named for him) and Delafield Place.He was very religious and was a senior warden at St. James' Church, Hyde Park and later devoutly attended Trinity Church in Manhattan. His death came October 17, 1853 at his home on Staten Island and his remains lie in the family vault in St. Mark's Churchyard on the Bowery. His widow, Catherine, passed away October 14, 1868, on Staten Island, and is also buried there. For more about William Bard himself as well as his relations, refer to this link… William Bard – Wikipedia As for information pertaining to the sender of this correspondence, I had no luck whatsoever. My apologies. I hope you enjoyed this peek into my collection, and hope someone can explain to me the reasoning behind the Postage Rate quandary I presented above. 2 weeks ago By jblah…
	How Would You Value Letter Mail from Shinjuku Japan "VIA SIBERIA" to E… By jblaha 3 weeks ago \| Last Post: 2 weeks ago Forum Stamp Values
	Ha, I think a lot of spouses can relate @jblaha. Stampex in NYC sounds like a great day. Hopefully the next big show works out for you now that retirement is rolling. 2 weeks ago By Ryan … @ryanjoneson Thank you, I picked this one up at the Stampex 2016 in NYC Javits Center. My wife was bored senseless, but I was excited to be there. I wish I went to the one in Boston this year – But I was just getting my retirement off the ground, and Mrs. Blaha wasn't having any of it. 2 weeks ago By jblah… Love this one @jblaha. For a modern cover like this the value is mostly in the story and the markings, not the stamp, so I agree with you that the enjoyment is the main return. I am curious why a Japan to Pennsylvania letter would be marked Via Siberia in 1993. Has anyone else seen that routing on mail headed to the US? 2 weeks ago By Ryan …
	A Cover Carried Upon LZ127 Graf Zeppelin on its First Europe Pan-Ameri… By jblaha 2 weeks ago \| Last Post: 2 weeks ago Forum Stamp Talk
	All three Zeppelins in MNH VF is a great place to be @jblaha. That set is on a lot of collectors' wish lists. 2 weeks ago By Ryan … @ryanjoneson thank you. I am very pleased to have this in my collection. I also have C13 MNH VF, and C14 MNH VF, having these two also Tickle My Fancy. 2 weeks ago By jblah… What a cover @jblaha! A C15 actually used on the flight it was made for is the best way to own one. Only about 61,000 of the $2.60 exist, so finding it on a round trip cover is a real treat. Thanks for the history write up too. 2 weeks ago By Ryan …
	Confused on the Scott# By California Kid 2 weeks ago \| Last Post: 2 weeks ago Forum Stamp Identification
	Nice catch on the E15 @california-kid, and thanks @jblaha for the shout out on the channel. Jim, that perforation check Jan described is the right next step for your two singles. A perforation gauge is cheap and worth having for exactly this kind of question. Since this one turned out to be an E15, please ignore the E12 plate block numbers from my earlier reply. 2 weeks ago By Ryan … @california-kid – Nice catch – I have forgotten about this Search Tool within the Stamp Smarter site. Since this Block of 4 is a US Scott # E15, Perforation 11×10.5, Issued on November 29th, 1927. With this stated I would recommend you check the Perforations on the two single stamps you presented upon your initial Post. If they are Perforation 11 then they are both an E12. If not, and you find either of them to be Perforation 11×10.5, then they are an E15. If the second single upon you Initial Post is found to be Perf 11×10.5 it would be a Color Changeling, since E15 does not list a Deep/Dark Ultramarine for this Scott #. Unfortunately, the CVs for E15 are not as lucrative as they are for E12, but it does specifically list a Block of 4 = $6.50 (Hinged) and $10.50 (Unhinged). Thank you for reminding me about this Seach Tool within the Stamp Smarter site. 2 weeks ago By jblah… Hello all. I checked the plate number on that block of 4 and it is an E15 not an E12. 2 weeks ago By Calif… view all posts
	Hobby Burn Out. What Other Hobbies Do You Enjoy When Not Stamping? By jblaha 1 month ago \| Last Post: 2 weeks ago Forum Stamp Talk
	Great topic @jblaha, and those minis look fantastic. When I need a break from stamps I like to work on other business projects. Who else has a go-to break hobby? 2 weeks ago By Ryan … 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 month ago By jblah…
	How to Detect Damage, Altered, and Repaired Stamps – By Paul W. Schmid By jblaha 1 month ago \| Last Post: 2 weeks ago Forum Resources & Literature
	Great pick @jblaha. Regummed and reperfed stamps are the most common traps I see as a dealer, so a book like this pays for itself fast. Thanks for posting the eBay link too. 2 weeks ago By Ryan … 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 4 weeks 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 month ago By jblah…
	Greenland – My Halloween Post By jblaha 4 weeks ago \| Last Post: 2 weeks ago Forum Stamp Talk
	Ha, that one is definitely macabre @jblaha! Love the art series. Anyone else have a spooky stamp to add, even though Halloween is behind us? 2 weeks ago By Ryan … 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. 4 weeks ago By jblah…
	Trucial States – CTOs – Michel Catalogue in English a Must Have By jblaha 3 weeks ago \| Last Post: 2 weeks ago Forum Resources & Literature
	Great story @jblaha, those packet stamps hooked a lot of us. Good tip on the English Michel too. It fills the gaps where Scott leaves off. 2 weeks ago By Ryan … 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. 3 weeks ago By jblah…
	Great Site for Reference to Stamp Forgeries of the World – Highly Reco… By jblaha 3 weeks ago \| Last Post: 2 weeks ago Forum Stamp Talk
	Great resource @jblaha, thanks for sharing. I am bookmarking this one. Keeping your forgeries labeled in the collection is the right call too. A labeled forgery is a teaching tool. 2 weeks ago By Ryan … You have a stamp in your collection you believe to be a "Find of a Lifetime". If so, you can ascertain such by referring to this link… Stampforgeries.com – Stampforgeries of the World I personally found this site to be a boon when checking whether my Cape of Good Hope triangles are the actual McCoy or just a forgery. They are not what I'd hoped for, sadly to say – though they do remain within my collection as examples of forgeries (and noted as such). But this site not only presents image comparisons between genuine & known forgeries, and provides points of interest to various known examples of forgeries so identification can be done. It also provides necessary links and contacts with various Experts, as well as Reference materials you can utilize. Though an example of a Fournier or Sperati forgery can be a pleasing find within your collection. The above site can be a great inclusion to your Philatelic arsenal. 3 weeks ago By jblah…
	Foreign stamps with foreign language can’t read By Sunny4 7 months ago \| Last Post: 2 weeks ago Forum Stamp Identification
	@froggie1949 Agreed, catalogue first and Google second. And @jblaha that Google Translate camera tip is a great one, I use it too. 2 weeks ago By Ryan … 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. 1 month 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. 5 months ago By frogg… view all posts
	WWII australia stamps By ruebabes 10 months ago \| Last Post: 2 weeks ago Forum Stamp Values
	Thanks @jblaha, great explanation of how specimen stamps were used. @ruebabes if you ever want a value on these, an auction house that handles Australia would be the best place to ask, since specimens rarely show up in the standard catalogues. 2 weeks ago By Ryan … 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 weeks 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. 10 months ago By Ryan … view all posts
	Mao Zedong Stamp By bahador37 6 months ago \| Last Post: 2 weeks ago Forum Stamp Values
	Thank you @jblaha for picking this one up. I said I would leave it open for someone with more China knowledge, and this is exactly what I was hoping for. @bahador37 Jan's breakdown is a great place to start. For stamps at these values I would still get a certificate before selling. 2 weeks ago By Ryan … Dagnabbit! My apologies @bahador37 it appears the first Reply Post is incomplete; I may have accidently deleted a portion of my write up with relation to these stamps… Please refer to the following: 800 Chinese Dollar – Scott # 31 – CV Unused $60.00 1000 Chinese Dollar – Scott # 32 – CV Unused $85.00 2000 Chinese Dollar – Scott # 33 – CV Unused $100.00 3000 Chinese Dollar – Scott # 34 – CV Unused $150.00 If you utilize other Catalogues in lieu of Scott, here are the most popular Catalogues out there along with their stamp’s Cat # respectively for your reference. Please note, the Michel Catalogue is the only one which differentiates between the Original and the Reprints of which I shall represent the Reprints in parentheses ()… Michel # 31I (31II), 32I (32II), 33I (33II), and 34I (34II) Stanley Gibbons # 1432, 1433, 1433, and 1434 Yvert et Tellier # 849, 850, 851, and 852 Again, my apologies for my faux pa with deleting the last portion of my first Reply Post. I hope the above information proves beneficial. 3 weeks ago By jblah… I’m back. Again, my apologies, I am unable to locate any information on the Designers and Printers of the remaining five stamps upon your initial Post. All are from the Series titled "Labour Day", Unwatermarked, Perforation Comb 11 x 11.5, Photogravure and Recess, Issued on May 5th, 1967. Scott # 949 depicts "Gate of Heavenly Peace and Text from CCP Communique Praising Mao" – CV Unused $140.00. Scott # 950 depicts "Mao and Poem" – CV Unused $140.00. Scott # 951 depicts "Mao Among People of Various Races" – CV Unused $140.00. Scott # 952 depicts "Mao Facing Left and Red Guards with Books" – CV Unused $140.00. Scott # 953 depicts "Mao with Upraised Righthand" – CV Unused $175.00. If you utilize other Catalogues in lieu of Scott, here are the most popular Catalogues out there along with this stamp’s Cat # respectively for your reference… Michel # 977, 978, 979, 980, and 981 Stanley Gibbons # 2354, 2355, 2356, 2357, and 2358 Yvert et Tellier # 1731, 1732, 1733, 1734 and 1736 (it appears # 1735 was skipped for some reason, no annotation to explain why can be located). I hope the above, as well as the previous Reply Posts prove beneficial. 3 weeks ago By jblah… view all posts
	319 red George Washington values By Donderden7478 2 weeks ago \| Last Post: 2 weeks ago Forum Stamp Values
	@donderden7478 I should clarify something, the CVs (Catalogue Values) noted upon the above Reply Post are for EACH BOOKLET PANE OF 6 STAMPS. Since you are in possession of what I assume is a COMPLETED BOOKLET containing 4 PANES, the overall CV for such a find should be quite a bit more in value. I'm sure other Philatelists would agree. 2 weeks ago By jblah… @donderden7478 Welcome to the Stamp Collector's Community. What you have there is what I would consider a SWEET FIND! Hopefully the booklet is fully complete, containing four complete Booklet Panes of six stamps each. This Definitive stamp depicting George Washington (1732-1799), the First President of the USA was issued on November 12th, 1903. It is Watermarked Double Lined USPS, Perforation 12. The Designer is Clair Aubrey Huston, and was Engraved by George F. C. Smillie, George V. Rose Jr. and Robert F. Ponickau. The Bureau of Engraving & Printing printed using Line Engraved (Intaglio) Flat Plates. There are numerous versions (color variations, Imperf & Perf 12, etc.) and two types (I & II) of this stamp, the quantity of all versions printed combined are estimated to be 21,325,000,000 stamps. This stamp was created due to some controversy – US Scott # 319 was hastily redesigned and issued after the public mocked its predecessor, US Scott # 301. The original version depicted a portrait of the first president surrounded by flags, but the ink and fast printing presses made Washington look weak and unflattering. The New York Sun even joked he had "the nose of a toper". To fix the public relations disaster, the US Post Office introduced US Scott # 319 in November 1903. This redesigned stamp eliminated the flags and framed Washington's portrait inside an elegant shield, quickly restoring his iconic, heroic image. The public and collectors greatly preferred the clean, regal framing of the shield, making it a huge success. With the above stated, there are two types of the redesigned Washington 2¢ of 1903. It is useful to know the difference between the type I and the Type II. Please refer to the image below: The below expanded image from the photo you presented upon your Post suggests to me it is a Type I US Scott # 319. But it is highly recommended you ascertain this by fly-specking the stamp yourself. Based upon the above assumption on my part your Booklets Unused contain either… US Scott # 319g, Carmine. As for the Watermark you must determine whether it is Upright (CV = $125.00) or Horizontal (CV = $3000.00) – a vast difference, would you not agree? US Scott # 319n, Carmine Rose (CV = $275.00) US SOTT # 319p, Scarlet (CV = $185.00) I strongly recommend sending this in for an Authentication Certificate to a reputable Expertizing Authority, such as APS or PSE to be fully confident with which version you may have in your possession. This is a beautiful addition to any collection, something to show off with pride. Since this example is what you selected to present upon your Post I am now looking forward to see what else you have up your sleeve. Keep on Collecting. 2 weeks ago By jblah… I acquired a large collection of stamps all from pre 1950. I am trying to research them, and I found a booklet with 18 red George Washington stamps. I believe they are called 319. According to several websites this is one of the highly valued stamps, however, I’m getting conflicting information. Can you tell me an accurate value I can hope to get for this booklet? 2 weeks ago By Donde…
	PLAID stamps WW2 era? By KathyU 2 weeks ago \| Last Post: 2 weeks ago Forum Stamp Identification
	@kathyu Always happy to help, and hope this has inspired you to venture down the path of collecting stamps. 2 weeks ago By jblah… Thank you so much for the informative replies, Jan! I thought they looked similar to the old S&H Stamps. I truly appreciate the information about years of issue as well! 2 weeks ago By Kathy… @kathyu Searching a bit further with relation to the Overprint of "DZU 151" produced the following information: MacDonald Plaid Savings & Trading Stamps with the 1 Mill Overprint (catalogued as DZU 151) are collectible mid‑century trading stamps issued by the E.F. MacDonald Company. While they appear frequently in mixed lots on eBay and Etsy, individual overprinted varieties like DZU 151 typically sell for only a few dollars unless part of a larger, full book or rare ephemera set. The 1 Mill overprint (your “DZU 151”) refers to a denomination adjustment printed over the original stamp design. Overprints were used for accounting or promotional reasons and are less common than standard issues. No recent listing specifically identifies the DZU 151 overprint, but similar single Plaid stamps or small groups rarely exceed a few dollars unless they are part of a rare catalogued variety. Based on current market patterns: A single overprinted Plaid stamp like DZU 151 would likely fall in the $1–$5 range. A full sheet or book containing the overprint could reach $10–$20+, depending on completeness and collector interest. Please note, A full sheet of MacDonald Plaid 1 Mill Overprinted DZU 151 stamps contains 200 stamps. These estimates align with general Plaid stamp pricing trends on eBay and Etsy. I hope this additional tidbit of information proves helpful as well. 2 weeks ago By jblah… view all posts
	Armenia 1922 Hammer & Sickle 50 ruble Old Issue Definitive Stamp By DoubleA 11 months ago \| Last Post: 3 weeks ago Forum Stamp Values
	@doublea the stamp's image presented upon your Post is: Armenia (Socialist Soviet Republic of Armenia to be specific) Scott # 300, Unwatermarked, Perforation line 11.5, printed by Lithography, and was Issued in October 1922 (no specific date indicated) – CV Unused .85 cents. It is one of numerous stamps in the 4th Series of Local Motifs. 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 # IVa Stanley Gibbons # Not listed Yvert et Tellier # 134 I hope the above information proves beneficial to your needs. 3 weeks ago By jblah… I am not an expert on foreign stamps. I waited to see if any of our other community members had info on this before responding. If it's not in the Scott catalogue for Russia or related countries it could be a number of things including facsimiles, cinderellas, local revenues, etc. And most of the time if not noted in the catalogue there is not a considerable market for such material, and thus low/no value applies. 11 months ago By Ryan … Here is a 1922 stamp that I can't find a value on. Can you help? Thanks. 11 months ago By Doubl…
	U.S. Stamps By Juan 10 months ago \| Last Post: 3 weeks ago Forum Stamp Values
	@juan Not a problem whatsoever. Happy to help a fellow collector. 3 weeks ago By jblah… @jblaha Thank you very much this information, Jan. I hope your retirement is going very well! 3 weeks 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. 3 weeks ago By jblah…
	1865 Newspaper & Periodical Stamps By Juan 10 months ago \| Last Post: 3 weeks ago Forum Stamp Values
	@juan Not a problem whatsoever. Happy to help a fellow collector. 3 weeks 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. 3 weeks 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. 1 month ago By jblah…
	Tsk, Tsk! Naughty Postage Use. By jblaha 4 weeks ago \| Last Post: 4 weeks ago Forum Stamp Talk
	@ryanjoneson Thank you More will come soon. 4 weeks 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! 4 weeks 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. 4 weeks ago By jblah…
	Block of 4, 10c yellow, Sassone #1, kingdom of Italy 1863 By 41ziggs 9 months ago \| Last Post: 4 weeks 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. 4 weeks 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 month ago \| Last Post: 4 weeks ago Forum Stamp Talk
	Very interesting and neat @jblaha Thanks for sharing! 4 weeks 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 month ago By jblah…
	France 1871 15 centimes stamp: identification and value? By DoubleA 11 months ago \| Last Post: 4 weeks 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 weeks 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. 1 month 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…
	US #143L7 Pony Express?? Authentic? By Summit Stamps 1 month ago \| Last Post: 4 weeks 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 4 weeks 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! 1 month 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. 1 month ago By Summi…

10 Topics
165 Posts
533 Replies
0 Online
427 Members

Topics with their latest replies in reversed order
	Stamp Perforation Gauges – Beginner Friendly By jblaha 4 days ago \| Last Post: 8 hours ago Forum Stamp Identification
	@ryanjoneson Thank you, I was working on something for Watermark Detection, but I see you have already covered this on this Forum Site quite well. Therefore, I nixed my effort on this topic for now. Will pull something out once I land a Topic to cover. 8 hours ago By jblah… Looking forward to them @jblaha. Beginner friendly posts like your perf gauge one are exactly what new members need. 12 hours ago By Ryan … @ryanjoneson No problem at all. I shall endeavor to tackle other "Beginner Friendly" topics in the near future, in an effort to help newcomers to this historically long-lived hobby. 3 days ago By jblah… view all posts
	YABBA DABBA DOO! Flintstones and Their Mongolian Fan Audience By jblaha 3 days ago \| Last Post: 8 hours ago Forum Stamp Talk
	@ryanjoneson I see in Scott Catalogue Mongolia issued a series on the Jetsons as well – Don't have those as yet but one day. 8 hours ago By jblah… This one made me smile @jblaha. Mongolia has put out a lot of pop culture topicals over the years, and the Flintstones set is one of the more fun ones to stumble across in a collection. And your dad's claim about learning English from Fred and Barney is too good not to believe. 12 hours ago By Ryan … To add a bit of personal levity, my father always claimed he learned English by watching The Flintstones. I find it not to be believable since he immigrated to USA in 1947 from Czechoslovakia in 1947, escaping the newly formed Communist Government after WWII. 2 days ago By jblah…
	Canada’s Hoodoo Boo-Boo By jblaha 1 day ago \| Last Post: 8 hours ago Forum Stamp Values
	@ryanjoneson Thank you, I recall when this story broke in Linn's Stamp News, prompting me to seek these out before the prices soared. Got 2 booklets and a souvenir sheet at cut rate price – I believe it was about $ 20-$25 for all three items. 8 hours ago By jblah… Ha, great title @jblaha. I love error stories like this, where the stamp is fine but the picture is in the wrong place. Hoodoos from Drumheller standing in for Dinosaur Provincial Park is a pretty understandable mix-up, but I can see why Albertans noticed right away. Thanks for sharing this one. 12 hours ago By Ryan … Once again, I pull back the curtain to give you a peek into my collection – I hope you enjoy this one. On July 3rd, 2015, Canada Post issued the UNESCO World Heritage Sites stamp series consisting of a Booklet of six (6) stamps and a souvenir sheet of five (5) stamps. This was the third set in a series of stamps commemorating the seventeen (17) UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Canada. The Souvenir Sheet, Canada Scott # 2844a (MiNr: 3272; SG: Unlisted) is Moisture Activated, Unwatermarked, Offset Lithography, Perforation 12 ½ and the Booklet, Canada Scott # 2845 (MiNr: 3277; SG: 3142) is Self-Adhesive, Perforation Serpentine Die Cut 13 ½. Both the Souvenir Sheet and the Booklet were Designed by Lara Minja, Printed by The Lowe-Martin Group on Paper with Tullis Russell Coatings (TRC) with Fluorescent Frame. All was going well until complaints came rolling in from the Canadian citizens referencing a photographic image presented upon one of the stamps. The stamp meant to depict Dinosaur Provincial Park actually showed hoodoos located near Drumheller, about 60 miles away. UNESCO themed stamps are intended to accurately represent protected heritage sites this misidentified image undermined the authenticity of the series. “Hoodoos” geologic formations are oddly shaped rock spires formed by erosion, often consisting of softer rock topped by harder rock, which protects the column. The hoodoos in Drumheller are iconic and widely photographed, which likely contributed to the mix‑up. Hoodoos do exist in Dinosaur Provincial Park, but the specific formation pictured was unmistakably from Drumheller, a well‑known area by locals and tourists alike. Both Drumheller and Dinosaur Provincial Park are part of Alberta’s Badlands, but they are distinct geological areas separated by more than an hour’s drive. After this error was discovered, the Souvenir Sheets and Booklets were withdrawn from sale on July 6th, 1025. Then the day after, on July 7th, 2015, Canada Post recalled the stamp nationwide, pulling it from post offices and ordering destruction of remaining stock. Since the recall happened only three days after release, surviving copies became a highly sought after error stamp in the Philatelic Market. These Error Souvenir Sheets & Booklets are now considered rare, with some selling for hundreds of dollars depending on condition. And the First Day Cancelled error sheets are especially prized because they were issued before the recall, unfortunately I was not able to get my hands upon any example at the time. To rectify this embarrassing error Canada Post issued the corrected version August 21st, 2015, of both the Souvenir Sheets and Booklets featuring the actual Dinosaur Provincial Park. The Souvenir Sheet, Canada Scott # 2857a (MiNr: 3289; SG: Unlisted; Yt: 3155) and the Booklet, Canada Scott # 2858 (MiNr: 3290; SG: 3143; Yt: 3160) were designed and printed in the same manner as the errors these replace. I hope you enjoyed this Post as much as I have researching it. Till the next time I unveil a selection from my collection… Keep On Collecting 1 day ago By jblah…
	Need help identifying these 2 stamps By California Kid 3 days ago \| Last Post: 2 days ago Forum Stamp Identification
	@california-kid Please let me know what you find at those points of interest, I believe I do see the "SECRET MARK" as well as hints of the Shading referenced above – although all can be faintly seen. I recommend using your cellphone camera with the MACRO MODE (that's the little Flower thingy) for better detail to be photographed, or a scanner with a minimum of 600dpi. I wish I was more Tech Savvy so I could explain this better. 2 days ago By jblah… @ryanjoneson no problem. @california-kid Jim, I downloaded the photo upon your Post, specifically the left-hand image and am unable to see any indication of a Grill. Not taking into account the Light Test, and the Flick Test – Let me know whether you desire to know more about these methods for determining Hard or Soft Paper – Here’s my quick assessment… Checking the Pearl to the left of the numeral “1” of the image upon your Post, I have exploded this area and have enhanced it as best I could, though it remains quite blurry, there appears to be a faint “DASH” within the Pearl, this is the “SECRET MARK” (see exploded images below): I recommend you check this with a Magnifying Glass or Loop to ascertain whether you see this… Now, looking at the upper left corner of your image, it appears there is shading added to the Pearl and Arabesques, again here are the exploded versions: I recommend you check this with a Magnifying Glass or Loop to ascertain whether you see this… Based on what I can see from the above two exploded images, though blurry leaves me to assess this as US Scott # 206. My reasoning for this assessment this is US Scott 206 is due to the “SECRET MARK” which is present within the Pearl to the left of the numeral “1” and the presence of shading added to the upper left corner Pearl and the upper left Arabesques. All other versions (US Scott 145, 156, 167, 182, ad 192) have clear upper left corner Pearl & Arabesques, like this… Let me know what you find with the Magnifying Glass or Loop. I hope the above proves beneficial to your needs. Keep On Collecting 2 days ago By jblah… Hi Jim, good pair! These are two different Franklin 1 cent designs. The one on the right is the 1890 issue, Scott 219. The one on the left is the earlier Bank Note design from the 1870s, and that one takes a little more detective work, because the same design was printed by several companies and catalogs under different numbers (134, 145, 156, 182 and the re-engraved 206). Flip it over and check for a grill (a small waffle pattern pressed into the paper). If there is no grill, the paper and the shading lines on the front narrow it down from there. @jblaha would love your eye on the left one too. 3 days ago By Ryan …
	Competitive Pricing Guidelines for Condition of Stamps (US & WW) By jblaha 6 days ago \| Last Post: 5 days ago Forum Stamp Values
	Great topic @jblaha, and one I think about a lot as a dealer. Condition drives price more than anything else, and a lot of overpriced listings come down to sellers pricing a damaged copy like a sound one. Having a consistent guideline like the APS one is a big help for both sides of the table. For anyone selling here on the Stamp Collectors marketplace, this is a good read before you price your listings. And I love that you are setting this up for Nathaniel, that is how the hobby keeps going. 5 days ago By Ryan … When suffering from a bout of ennui – I usually turn to reading old articles from either the American Philatelist or Linn's Stamp News. While doing so some time ago, I ran across an excellent short article published in the May 2018 issue of the American Philatelist written by Wendy Masorti, Sales Director for the American Philatelist Society (APS) at the time on pages 480-3. How many times have you seen a stamp on eBay or other Seller's Platforms for sale where the image(s) show the item is not in any condition to be sold at the pricing requested by the seller, or the reserve minimum bid is ridiculously astronomical. I have seen stamps for sale which are better described as "Space Filler" and in no way should such pricing be applied for an item which is an afront to one's senses. Yes, it may be a stamp you desire to complete a set you may have been seeking for so time. But to buy such an item at this price makes you feel a fool. Many sellers out there, ask for prices which are far from competitive for the said condition which is evident. If you are a collector and find yourself contemplating to sell an item(s), I recommend checking out this article in the American Philatelist as a Competitive Pricing Guideline for Condition for the stamp(s) you intend for sale. In fact, Ms. W. Masorti states in the article's introductory paragraphs this is the guidelines used by APS Sales Department. And I believe so should all sellers. I now utilize these guidelines for assessing my stamps in my collection for the adjusted Catalogue Values based on condition for posterity, so my family upon my demise can know what to value my collection. I intend to leave my collection to my grandson Nathaniel (8 years) who already shows an interest in collecting such items as Pokémon cards where his dad and I point out condition is of import on keeping such collectibles, we show him my collections as an example. With the above stated, we members of the American Philatelic Society have access to digital copies of old magazine issues. If you are interested in this article and a current cohort to our group of member Philatelists, check it out it. It is a good read. If you are not a member already, it may be prudent choice to join this fine organization, you can then have the ability to have access to not just this article and many others, as well as all the other perks offered by membership to the American Philatelic Society. I hope to see you there. Keep on Collecting. 6 days ago By jblah…
	The Higgins & Gage World Postal Stationery Catalog By jblaha 1 week ago \| Last Post: 1 week ago Forum Resources & Literature
	The Higgins & Gage World Postal Stationery Catalog is the standard global reference for postal stationery, published in 19 alphabetical volumes (more like pamphlets actually) between 1964 and 1989 and still widely used by collectors despite being long out of print. These catalogue volumes are the most recent encyclopedic worldwide reference for postal stationery, covering stamped envelopes, postal cards, lettercards, wrappers, aerograms, and registration envelopes. For the United States of America in lieu of the Higgins & Gage, I recommend utilizing Scott Specialized Catalogue of United States Stamps and Covers, which is the definitive single‑volume reference for U.S. philately, updated annually offering more than 100 specialized sections and far deeper coverage. In addition, Michel Catalogues from Germany offer specialized catalogues for Austria, Germany, Europe as a whole, etc. updated periodically. Such can be located on eBay by typing in “Ganzsachen-Katalog” (Postal Stationary Catalogue) but expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $100. Though, Higgins & Gage remain the dominant standard reference numbering system used by philatelists and dealers, auction houses, & exhibitions, most volumes have not been updated for over 35 years and the printed valuations are outdated. Sections for countries beginning with “A” (including Australian States and Australasia) are available separately and include detailed listings for postal cards, envelopes, letter sheets, wrappers, and even specialized items like pneumatic post and COD forms. The American Philatelic Research Library holds copies pf Higgins & Gage. Partial digital files (e.g., Japan, Manchukuo) have appeared in online listings, and can prove quite elusive. A complete 10‑volume “Classic Philatelics” edition (1970s, updated 1984) was sold on eBay, described as “out of print and rarely seen” at prices which can be a burden upon anyone’s wallet. Cross reference tools exist to map Higgins & Gage numbering system to other catalogues which are also difficult to uncover online. We here at the “Stamp Collectors Community” are always willing to help fellow Philatelists with their Stamp Collecting interests and queries. Thank you 1 week ago By jblah…
	Republik Maluku Selatan Stamps? By jblaha 1 week ago \| Last Post: 1 week ago Forum Stamp Identification
	You just receive a large Kiloware of Worldwide Stamps and you commence separating them into numerous neat piles on your kitchen table by country of origin. But wait, what’s this? One of those piles consist of stamps from a country you never heard of, nor am able to locate in any of your Catalogues. The country is “Republik Maluku Selatan” (RMS), also known as “The Republic of the South Moluccas”. It is an unrecognized secessionist state of Indonesia that has maintained a government‑in‑exile in the Netherlands since April 12th, 1966. The RMS originally declared its independence from Indonesia on April 25th, 1950 by leaders of the Ambon, Buru, & Seram islands, based on a 1949 Dutch–Indonesian treaty that promised federal autonomy. After Indonesian forces defeated the RMS in 1950 and later suppressed their movement, the secessionists withdrew to Seram and continued armed resistance until 2 December 2nd, 1963. Following the capture and execution of RMS president (Christopher Soumokil) by Indonesian authorities in 1965, the RMS leadership then fled to the Netherlands in 1966, where they established their official seat of government. To this day this government in-exile fails to be recognized by Indonesia or any United Nation member state. The “Republik Maluku Selatan” never issued official postage stamps, but many items bearing this country’s name exist. Major Catalogues such as Michel and Scott do not recognize them as valid postage stamps. Publishers (Amos) of Scott Catalogue, state these stamps as “privately issued and had no postal use… not recognized as postage stamps”. While Michel Catalogue states them to be considered “merely bogus stamps… should not be offered except explicitly as “Schwindelausgaben” (swindle issues). Who is responsible for the copious quantities of these stamps on today’s market? His name is, Henry Stolow. He was widely known for creating and marketing bogus and fantasy stamp issues that mimicked legitimate postage, often sold to collectors through his New York and Munich wholesale operations. He alone conceived, commissioned, and distributed these items, which today are recognized as non‑postal vignettes with historical interest but no philatelic legitimacy. His unauthorized production of approximately 150 Maluku Selatan issues was done at the Österreichische Staatsdruckerei in Vienna (Austrian State Printing Works) and widely appeared on the market around 1955. They were produced without any postal authority, date of issue, or governmental sanction. Österreichische Staatsdruckerei (Vienna) itself is a major Austrian security printer, historically responsible for banknotes, official documents, and some postage stamps. In this case, it printed Stolow’s material as a private commercial job, not as official postage. Stolow’s RMS issues (animals, flowers, UN, MacArthur) flooded the market in Europe and the U.S., often sold cheaply or given away as colorful “exotic” stamps. In Austria, leftover printed stock reportedly ended up in stationery shop giveaway packets. Modern Philatelic expert organizations classify Stolow’s RMS issues and similar productions as Cinderellas. Many collectors still enjoy them for their designs and backstory. You can still find large inventories appear on StampWorld’s site with low nominal prices (often USD 0.28–5.59 per value), as well as eBay listings showing mixed sets, often marketed as “MNH” or “local issues”. Some varieties exist, including imperforate versions, perforation differences, and color variations. If you decide to keep these, and I recommend you do so for posterity, treat them a Cinderellas. 1 week ago By jblah…
	Stampless Cover March 1846 – Letter Rate Quandary & Interesting Recipi… By jblaha 2 weeks ago \| Last Post: 1 week ago Forum Stamp Talk
	@ryanjoneson Thank you for your insight, this explanation assuages this dilemma which has been nibbling at the back of my mind for some time. 1 week ago By jblah… Love this one @jblaha, and those blue Geneva markings are great looking. On the quandary, I think the 130 mile figure is the catch. Geneva sits out in the Finger Lakes, and the mail would have gone east by post road to Albany and then down the Hudson. That works out to well over 300 miles, which would put it right in the 10 cent bracket. Even as the crow flies it is over 200 miles. My understanding is that rates were figured on the post route the mail actually traveled, not the straight line distance, but I would love to hear from anyone who knows the 1845 rate rules better than I do. 1 week ago By Ryan … Here is yet another peek into my collection I hope you will enjoy as much as I do. Unfortunately there are condition issues with this letter, such as tears and staining, but I am still happy with it as is. This Stampless Cover bearing a blue 30mm diameter Geneva NY CDS dated March 4th (1846), a blue “PAID” auxiliary mark, as well as a blue “10” cent Postage Letter Rate. This Stampless Cover was sent by an R. Whiting from Geneva NY to William Bard Esquire of Port NY on March 4th, 1846. The content of this correspondence is business related, referring to monetary sums in transaction. All written upon a single page of parchment. At the time (1846) this correspondence was sent, the Letter Rates (established on July 1st, 1845) was 5 cents for distances not more than 300 miles, and 10 cents for more than this. In 1846, the distance between Geneva, New York, and Port New York (Lower Manhattan) was about 130 miles by water via the Erie Canal and Hudson River, according to the 1846 Mitchell “New Map of New York” which marked steamboat route distances. Geneva NY was a major port on the Genesee River, connected to the Erie Canal at Lockport. While Port New York referred to the harbor area in Lower Manhattan, the main entry point for ships from the Hudson River. The most direct 1846 route was by steamboat: Travel up the Erie Canal from Geneva to Lockport (about 10 miles). Continue by canal to Buffalo (about 140 miles from Geneva). From Buffalo, follow the Niagara River and Lake Erie to the Hudson River at Albany, then down the Hudson to New York City. However, the Mitchell map’s “steamboat distances” show a more direct water route via the Erie Canal and Hudson, which in 1846 was roughly 130 miles from Geneva to Port New York. Why does this matter? This distance reflects the transportation reality of 1846, when railroads were still limited in the region and waterways were the primary long-distance transport. The Erie Canal, completed in 1825, was the key link between the Great Lakes and the Atlantic, and steamboats could cover the 130 miles in a day or two depending on conditions. To summarize, in 1846, Geneva, NY, to Port New York was about 130 miles by water via the Erie Canal and Hudson River, as shown on the Mitchell 1846 map The overland distance from Geneva, New York, to Port New York (Lower Manhattan) was roughly 130–140 miles by the most direct stagecoach route, according to Samuel Augustus Mitchell’s 1846 New Map of New York and contemporary travel data. In 1846, Geneva was a major stagecoach hub on the Erie Canal, and Port New York (the port in Manhattan) was reached via the Hudson River or by land through the city. The most direct overland route in 1846 would have been: Geneva, NY along the Erie Canal to Albany via the Hudson River route or inland roads to New York City. This path followed the canal and then the Hudson River corridor, which was the standard stagecoach and freight route. Mitchell’s map lists distances between key points along these routes. Using the 1846 scale and the recorded segment distances (Geneva–Albany ≈ 100 miles, Albany–New York City ≈ 30–40 miles), the total overland distance is about 130–140 miles. In 1846, stagecoaches averaged 20–25 miles per day overland, so the trip would have taken about 6–7 days by horse-drawn stagecoach, depending on stops and conditions. Why does this matter? This distance reflects the transportation network of the mid‑19th century, where the Erie Canal and Hudson River route were the primary overland and waterborne links between the Finger Lakes region and New York City. The 1846 map is a primary source for reconstructing these distances, as modern road maps do not reflect the 19th‑century route. To summarize, in 1846, the overland distance from Geneva, NY, to Port New York was about 130–140 miles by the main stagecoach route, based on Mitchell’s 1846 map and historical travel data. So why was “10” cents charged as the Postage Letter Rate, since the distance was well under the 300 miles rate differential? If someone can enlighten me on this quandary, I would greatly appreciate it. The destination of “Port New York” at the time of 1846 for this Letter also proves interesting for Postal Historians. It was the main harbor and customs entry point for ships arriving in New York City, which was then the capital of New York State and the largest port in the United States. It was not a single building but the entire harbor area in Lower Manhattan, including the South Street Harbor and surrounding waterfront, where vessels docked for customs inspection, loading/unloading, and passenger embarkation. The port was in New York City, in New York County (now Manhattan), on the East River and Hudson River waterfront. In 1846, the city’s boundaries included what is now Manhattan, parts of the Bronx, and some of Brooklyn, but the port itself was centered in Lower Manhattan. It functioned as the official port of entry for all ships arriving in New York. At the time there was no Ellis Island as yet (built 1892). Immigrants and passengers were processed at customs houses and wharves in Lower Manhattan, often near South Street and the South Street Harbor. In summary, Port New York was the main harbor and customs area in Lower Manhattan, New York City, serving as the official entry point for ships and passengers. It was located in New York County on the East River, and all official immigration and customs records for that year refer to this harbor as the “Port of New York”. Now let us discuss the recipient of this correspondence: William Bard Esquire… He was born on April 4, 1778 in Philadelphia to Dr. Samuel Bard, a noted doctor in Manhattan and president of the College of Physicians and Surgeons. Both Dr. Samuel Bard and his father Dr. John Bard were personal friends of George Washington. William graduated from Columbia College, New York, in 1798 and began the study of law under Judge Maturin Livington. He married Catharine Cruger on October 7, 1802 in Trinity Church, Manhattan and they took up residence in Hyde Park, New York. William's father had turned over to his son a large estate in that area and together with a large fortune that his wife received from her grandmother, Madame du Nully of San Croix, West Indies, they were independently wealthy.About 1826 the Bards sold their dwelling place and estate in Hyde Park to Dr. David Hosack and moved to New York City, then consisting of only Manhattan, and then to Staten Island. He was urged to take the position of president of Columbia College but declined the offer. He later founded the New York Life Insurance and Trust Company and was its first president. He was the first of his family to reside on Staten Island and purchased a large piece of property and built a house in West New Brighton, on the north shore of the island, at Bard Ave. (which was named for him) and Delafield Place.He was very religious and was a senior warden at St. James' Church, Hyde Park and later devoutly attended Trinity Church in Manhattan. His death came October 17, 1853 at his home on Staten Island and his remains lie in the family vault in St. Mark's Churchyard on the Bowery. His widow, Catherine, passed away October 14, 1868, on Staten Island, and is also buried there. For more about William Bard himself as well as his relations, refer to this link… William Bard – Wikipedia As for information pertaining to the sender of this correspondence, I had no luck whatsoever. My apologies. I hope you enjoyed this peek into my collection, and hope someone can explain to me the reasoning behind the Postage Rate quandary I presented above. 2 weeks ago By jblah…
	How Would You Value Letter Mail from Shinjuku Japan "VIA SIBERIA" to E… By jblaha 3 weeks ago \| Last Post: 2 weeks ago Forum Stamp Values
	Ha, I think a lot of spouses can relate @jblaha. Stampex in NYC sounds like a great day. Hopefully the next big show works out for you now that retirement is rolling. 2 weeks ago By Ryan … @ryanjoneson Thank you, I picked this one up at the Stampex 2016 in NYC Javits Center. My wife was bored senseless, but I was excited to be there. I wish I went to the one in Boston this year – But I was just getting my retirement off the ground, and Mrs. Blaha wasn't having any of it. 2 weeks ago By jblah… Love this one @jblaha. For a modern cover like this the value is mostly in the story and the markings, not the stamp, so I agree with you that the enjoyment is the main return. I am curious why a Japan to Pennsylvania letter would be marked Via Siberia in 1993. Has anyone else seen that routing on mail headed to the US? 2 weeks ago By Ryan …
	A Cover Carried Upon LZ127 Graf Zeppelin on its First Europe Pan-Ameri… By jblaha 2 weeks ago \| Last Post: 2 weeks ago Forum Stamp Talk
	All three Zeppelins in MNH VF is a great place to be @jblaha. That set is on a lot of collectors' wish lists. 2 weeks ago By Ryan … @ryanjoneson thank you. I am very pleased to have this in my collection. I also have C13 MNH VF, and C14 MNH VF, having these two also Tickle My Fancy. 2 weeks ago By jblah… What a cover @jblaha! A C15 actually used on the flight it was made for is the best way to own one. Only about 61,000 of the $2.60 exist, so finding it on a round trip cover is a real treat. Thanks for the history write up too. 2 weeks ago By Ryan …
	Confused on the Scott# By California Kid 2 weeks ago \| Last Post: 2 weeks ago Forum Stamp Identification
	Nice catch on the E15 @california-kid, and thanks @jblaha for the shout out on the channel. Jim, that perforation check Jan described is the right next step for your two singles. A perforation gauge is cheap and worth having for exactly this kind of question. Since this one turned out to be an E15, please ignore the E12 plate block numbers from my earlier reply. 2 weeks ago By Ryan … @california-kid – Nice catch – I have forgotten about this Search Tool within the Stamp Smarter site. Since this Block of 4 is a US Scott # E15, Perforation 11×10.5, Issued on November 29th, 1927. With this stated I would recommend you check the Perforations on the two single stamps you presented upon your initial Post. If they are Perforation 11 then they are both an E12. If not, and you find either of them to be Perforation 11×10.5, then they are an E15. If the second single upon you Initial Post is found to be Perf 11×10.5 it would be a Color Changeling, since E15 does not list a Deep/Dark Ultramarine for this Scott #. Unfortunately, the CVs for E15 are not as lucrative as they are for E12, but it does specifically list a Block of 4 = $6.50 (Hinged) and $10.50 (Unhinged). Thank you for reminding me about this Seach Tool within the Stamp Smarter site. 2 weeks ago By jblah… Hello all. I checked the plate number on that block of 4 and it is an E15 not an E12. 2 weeks ago By Calif… view all posts
	Hobby Burn Out. What Other Hobbies Do You Enjoy When Not Stamping? By jblaha 1 month ago \| Last Post: 2 weeks ago Forum Stamp Talk
	Great topic @jblaha, and those minis look fantastic. When I need a break from stamps I like to work on other business projects. Who else has a go-to break hobby? 2 weeks ago By Ryan … 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 month ago By jblah…
	How to Detect Damage, Altered, and Repaired Stamps – By Paul W. Schmid By jblaha 1 month ago \| Last Post: 2 weeks ago Forum Resources & Literature
	Great pick @jblaha. Regummed and reperfed stamps are the most common traps I see as a dealer, so a book like this pays for itself fast. Thanks for posting the eBay link too. 2 weeks ago By Ryan … 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 4 weeks 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 month ago By jblah…
	Greenland – My Halloween Post By jblaha 4 weeks ago \| Last Post: 2 weeks ago Forum Stamp Talk
	Ha, that one is definitely macabre @jblaha! Love the art series. Anyone else have a spooky stamp to add, even though Halloween is behind us? 2 weeks ago By Ryan … 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. 4 weeks ago By jblah…
	Trucial States – CTOs – Michel Catalogue in English a Must Have By jblaha 3 weeks ago \| Last Post: 2 weeks ago Forum Resources & Literature
	Great story @jblaha, those packet stamps hooked a lot of us. Good tip on the English Michel too. It fills the gaps where Scott leaves off. 2 weeks ago By Ryan … 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. 3 weeks ago By jblah…
	Great Site for Reference to Stamp Forgeries of the World – Highly Reco… By jblaha 3 weeks ago \| Last Post: 2 weeks ago Forum Stamp Talk
	Great resource @jblaha, thanks for sharing. I am bookmarking this one. Keeping your forgeries labeled in the collection is the right call too. A labeled forgery is a teaching tool. 2 weeks ago By Ryan … You have a stamp in your collection you believe to be a "Find of a Lifetime". If so, you can ascertain such by referring to this link… Stampforgeries.com – Stampforgeries of the World I personally found this site to be a boon when checking whether my Cape of Good Hope triangles are the actual McCoy or just a forgery. They are not what I'd hoped for, sadly to say – though they do remain within my collection as examples of forgeries (and noted as such). But this site not only presents image comparisons between genuine & known forgeries, and provides points of interest to various known examples of forgeries so identification can be done. It also provides necessary links and contacts with various Experts, as well as Reference materials you can utilize. Though an example of a Fournier or Sperati forgery can be a pleasing find within your collection. The above site can be a great inclusion to your Philatelic arsenal. 3 weeks ago By jblah…
	Foreign stamps with foreign language can’t read By Sunny4 7 months ago \| Last Post: 2 weeks ago Forum Stamp Identification
	@froggie1949 Agreed, catalogue first and Google second. And @jblaha that Google Translate camera tip is a great one, I use it too. 2 weeks ago By Ryan … 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. 1 month 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. 5 months ago By frogg… view all posts
	WWII australia stamps By ruebabes 10 months ago \| Last Post: 2 weeks ago Forum Stamp Values
	Thanks @jblaha, great explanation of how specimen stamps were used. @ruebabes if you ever want a value on these, an auction house that handles Australia would be the best place to ask, since specimens rarely show up in the standard catalogues. 2 weeks ago By Ryan … 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 weeks 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. 10 months ago By Ryan … view all posts
	Mao Zedong Stamp By bahador37 6 months ago \| Last Post: 2 weeks ago Forum Stamp Values
	Thank you @jblaha for picking this one up. I said I would leave it open for someone with more China knowledge, and this is exactly what I was hoping for. @bahador37 Jan's breakdown is a great place to start. For stamps at these values I would still get a certificate before selling. 2 weeks ago By Ryan … Dagnabbit! My apologies @bahador37 it appears the first Reply Post is incomplete; I may have accidently deleted a portion of my write up with relation to these stamps… Please refer to the following: 800 Chinese Dollar – Scott # 31 – CV Unused $60.00 1000 Chinese Dollar – Scott # 32 – CV Unused $85.00 2000 Chinese Dollar – Scott # 33 – CV Unused $100.00 3000 Chinese Dollar – Scott # 34 – CV Unused $150.00 If you utilize other Catalogues in lieu of Scott, here are the most popular Catalogues out there along with their stamp’s Cat # respectively for your reference. Please note, the Michel Catalogue is the only one which differentiates between the Original and the Reprints of which I shall represent the Reprints in parentheses ()… Michel # 31I (31II), 32I (32II), 33I (33II), and 34I (34II) Stanley Gibbons # 1432, 1433, 1433, and 1434 Yvert et Tellier # 849, 850, 851, and 852 Again, my apologies for my faux pa with deleting the last portion of my first Reply Post. I hope the above information proves beneficial. 3 weeks ago By jblah… I’m back. Again, my apologies, I am unable to locate any information on the Designers and Printers of the remaining five stamps upon your initial Post. All are from the Series titled "Labour Day", Unwatermarked, Perforation Comb 11 x 11.5, Photogravure and Recess, Issued on May 5th, 1967. Scott # 949 depicts "Gate of Heavenly Peace and Text from CCP Communique Praising Mao" – CV Unused $140.00. Scott # 950 depicts "Mao and Poem" – CV Unused $140.00. Scott # 951 depicts "Mao Among People of Various Races" – CV Unused $140.00. Scott # 952 depicts "Mao Facing Left and Red Guards with Books" – CV Unused $140.00. Scott # 953 depicts "Mao with Upraised Righthand" – CV Unused $175.00. If you utilize other Catalogues in lieu of Scott, here are the most popular Catalogues out there along with this stamp’s Cat # respectively for your reference… Michel # 977, 978, 979, 980, and 981 Stanley Gibbons # 2354, 2355, 2356, 2357, and 2358 Yvert et Tellier # 1731, 1732, 1733, 1734 and 1736 (it appears # 1735 was skipped for some reason, no annotation to explain why can be located). I hope the above, as well as the previous Reply Posts prove beneficial. 3 weeks ago By jblah… view all posts
	319 red George Washington values By Donderden7478 2 weeks ago \| Last Post: 2 weeks ago Forum Stamp Values
	@donderden7478 I should clarify something, the CVs (Catalogue Values) noted upon the above Reply Post are for EACH BOOKLET PANE OF 6 STAMPS. Since you are in possession of what I assume is a COMPLETED BOOKLET containing 4 PANES, the overall CV for such a find should be quite a bit more in value. I'm sure other Philatelists would agree. 2 weeks ago By jblah… @donderden7478 Welcome to the Stamp Collector's Community. What you have there is what I would consider a SWEET FIND! Hopefully the booklet is fully complete, containing four complete Booklet Panes of six stamps each. This Definitive stamp depicting George Washington (1732-1799), the First President of the USA was issued on November 12th, 1903. It is Watermarked Double Lined USPS, Perforation 12. The Designer is Clair Aubrey Huston, and was Engraved by George F. C. Smillie, George V. Rose Jr. and Robert F. Ponickau. The Bureau of Engraving & Printing printed using Line Engraved (Intaglio) Flat Plates. There are numerous versions (color variations, Imperf & Perf 12, etc.) and two types (I & II) of this stamp, the quantity of all versions printed combined are estimated to be 21,325,000,000 stamps. This stamp was created due to some controversy – US Scott # 319 was hastily redesigned and issued after the public mocked its predecessor, US Scott # 301. The original version depicted a portrait of the first president surrounded by flags, but the ink and fast printing presses made Washington look weak and unflattering. The New York Sun even joked he had "the nose of a toper". To fix the public relations disaster, the US Post Office introduced US Scott # 319 in November 1903. This redesigned stamp eliminated the flags and framed Washington's portrait inside an elegant shield, quickly restoring his iconic, heroic image. The public and collectors greatly preferred the clean, regal framing of the shield, making it a huge success. With the above stated, there are two types of the redesigned Washington 2¢ of 1903. It is useful to know the difference between the type I and the Type II. Please refer to the image below: The below expanded image from the photo you presented upon your Post suggests to me it is a Type I US Scott # 319. But it is highly recommended you ascertain this by fly-specking the stamp yourself. Based upon the above assumption on my part your Booklets Unused contain either… US Scott # 319g, Carmine. As for the Watermark you must determine whether it is Upright (CV = $125.00) or Horizontal (CV = $3000.00) – a vast difference, would you not agree? US Scott # 319n, Carmine Rose (CV = $275.00) US SOTT # 319p, Scarlet (CV = $185.00) I strongly recommend sending this in for an Authentication Certificate to a reputable Expertizing Authority, such as APS or PSE to be fully confident with which version you may have in your possession. This is a beautiful addition to any collection, something to show off with pride. Since this example is what you selected to present upon your Post I am now looking forward to see what else you have up your sleeve. Keep on Collecting. 2 weeks ago By jblah… I acquired a large collection of stamps all from pre 1950. I am trying to research them, and I found a booklet with 18 red George Washington stamps. I believe they are called 319. According to several websites this is one of the highly valued stamps, however, I’m getting conflicting information. Can you tell me an accurate value I can hope to get for this booklet? 2 weeks ago By Donde…
	PLAID stamps WW2 era? By KathyU 2 weeks ago \| Last Post: 2 weeks ago Forum Stamp Identification
	@kathyu Always happy to help, and hope this has inspired you to venture down the path of collecting stamps. 2 weeks ago By jblah… Thank you so much for the informative replies, Jan! I thought they looked similar to the old S&H Stamps. I truly appreciate the information about years of issue as well! 2 weeks ago By Kathy… @kathyu Searching a bit further with relation to the Overprint of "DZU 151" produced the following information: MacDonald Plaid Savings & Trading Stamps with the 1 Mill Overprint (catalogued as DZU 151) are collectible mid‑century trading stamps issued by the E.F. MacDonald Company. While they appear frequently in mixed lots on eBay and Etsy, individual overprinted varieties like DZU 151 typically sell for only a few dollars unless part of a larger, full book or rare ephemera set. The 1 Mill overprint (your “DZU 151”) refers to a denomination adjustment printed over the original stamp design. Overprints were used for accounting or promotional reasons and are less common than standard issues. No recent listing specifically identifies the DZU 151 overprint, but similar single Plaid stamps or small groups rarely exceed a few dollars unless they are part of a rare catalogued variety. Based on current market patterns: A single overprinted Plaid stamp like DZU 151 would likely fall in the $1–$5 range. A full sheet or book containing the overprint could reach $10–$20+, depending on completeness and collector interest. Please note, A full sheet of MacDonald Plaid 1 Mill Overprinted DZU 151 stamps contains 200 stamps. These estimates align with general Plaid stamp pricing trends on eBay and Etsy. I hope this additional tidbit of information proves helpful as well. 2 weeks ago By jblah… view all posts
	Armenia 1922 Hammer & Sickle 50 ruble Old Issue Definitive Stamp By DoubleA 11 months ago \| Last Post: 3 weeks ago Forum Stamp Values
	@doublea the stamp's image presented upon your Post is: Armenia (Socialist Soviet Republic of Armenia to be specific) Scott # 300, Unwatermarked, Perforation line 11.5, printed by Lithography, and was Issued in October 1922 (no specific date indicated) – CV Unused .85 cents. It is one of numerous stamps in the 4th Series of Local Motifs. 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 # IVa Stanley Gibbons # Not listed Yvert et Tellier # 134 I hope the above information proves beneficial to your needs. 3 weeks ago By jblah… I am not an expert on foreign stamps. I waited to see if any of our other community members had info on this before responding. If it's not in the Scott catalogue for Russia or related countries it could be a number of things including facsimiles, cinderellas, local revenues, etc. And most of the time if not noted in the catalogue there is not a considerable market for such material, and thus low/no value applies. 11 months ago By Ryan … Here is a 1922 stamp that I can't find a value on. Can you help? Thanks. 11 months ago By Doubl…
	U.S. Stamps By Juan 10 months ago \| Last Post: 3 weeks ago Forum Stamp Values
	@juan Not a problem whatsoever. Happy to help a fellow collector. 3 weeks ago By jblah… @jblaha Thank you very much this information, Jan. I hope your retirement is going very well! 3 weeks 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. 3 weeks ago By jblah…
	1865 Newspaper & Periodical Stamps By Juan 10 months ago \| Last Post: 3 weeks ago Forum Stamp Values
	@juan Not a problem whatsoever. Happy to help a fellow collector. 3 weeks 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. 3 weeks 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. 1 month ago By jblah…
	Tsk, Tsk! Naughty Postage Use. By jblaha 4 weeks ago \| Last Post: 4 weeks ago Forum Stamp Talk
	@ryanjoneson Thank you More will come soon. 4 weeks 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! 4 weeks 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. 4 weeks ago By jblah…
	Block of 4, 10c yellow, Sassone #1, kingdom of Italy 1863 By 41ziggs 9 months ago \| Last Post: 4 weeks 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. 4 weeks 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 month ago \| Last Post: 4 weeks ago Forum Stamp Talk
	Very interesting and neat @jblaha Thanks for sharing! 4 weeks 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 month ago By jblah…
	France 1871 15 centimes stamp: identification and value? By DoubleA 11 months ago \| Last Post: 4 weeks 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 weeks 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. 1 month 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…
	US #143L7 Pony Express?? Authentic? By Summit Stamps 1 month ago \| Last Post: 4 weeks 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 4 weeks 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! 1 month 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. 1 month ago By Summi…

Stamp Collectors

Collectors Community

Recent Posts

Featured Videos

Rare Stamp Alert: Look For These Specific Varieties!

Rare Red Line Washington 2 Cent Stamp

Fake Stamps vs Real: How To Find Out In Seconds

Featured Guides

Complete Guide to Organizing Your Stamp Collection

Create a Stamp Inventory System for Easy Cataloging

Mastering Stamp Mounting Techniques for Collectors

Recent News

All Six Volumes Of The 2027 Scott Catalogue Are Now Out

USPS Issues Its 2026 Diwali Stamp On October 21

Ukraine War Stamps: The Postal History of a Nation at War

Recently Added

Find Your Next Stamp

Buy & Sell On Stamp Collectors