Stamp collecting can be both a fascinating hobby and a lucrative investment. Sometimes, a stamp that looks ordinary might hold significant value. However, determining a stamp’s true worth requires expertise and authentication. This guide explains how to evaluate and authenticate rare stamps, with tips for navigating the process effectively.

Why Authentication is Necessary

Many valuable stamps closely resemble common ones, and counterfeits or altered stamps are widespread in the market. Even if you believe your stamp is rare, you’ll need a certificate of authenticity before serious buyers will consider paying a premium price.

Key Considerations for Authentication

• Condition: Even minor imperfections can impact a stamp’s value significantly.
• Rarity: Some features, such as specific designs or colors, drastically increase a stamp’s worth.
• Fakes and Alterations: Stamps are often altered to resemble rarer versions, making professional verification essential.

Examining Rare Stamps: Case Studies

Scott Number 22

• Type: 3a variety
• Special Feature: Curl in the hair
• Analysis: This feature is not noted in standard catalogs, which might increase its value. The light cancel ensures the design remains visible, making this a desirable piece.

Scott Number 27

• Type: Type 1 design in brick red
• Cancel: New Orleans town cancel
• Insight: Rare shades like brick red are challenging to identify without professional verification due to age-related fading. Certificates provide assurance to buyers about the stamp’s authenticity.

Scott Number 28b

• Type: Bright red-brown variation
• Condition: Reperforated horizontally
• Comparison: Differences between brick red and bright red-brown shades highlight how small nuances affect value.

The Importance of Grills in Stamps

Grilled stamps are unique due to the process of embossing small dots or ridges into the paper. However, they are often faked or altered, making authentication critical.

Examples of Grilled Stamps

• Scott Number 85 (3 Cent D Grill): Despite minor flaws, genuine grills are rare and highly collectible.
• Scott Number 99 (24 Cent F Grill): This rare grill variety demands careful examination, as counterfeits are common.
• Scott Number 9 (9 Cent F Grill): Red cancels add a premium value, but the grill area often has minor imperfections.

Submitting Stamps for Certification

Submitting stamps for authentication involves sending them to expertizing services. Choosing the right service can save money and ensure accurate results.

Recommended Services

• William Crowe Expertizing: Offers flexibility in certifying selected stamps while charging lower fees for stamps without certificates.
• Other Recognized Services: Typically charge a flat service fee plus a percentage of the catalog value.

Steps for Submission

1. Follow the service provider’s guidelines.
2. Submit stamps you suspect are valuable, especially those with rare shades, grills, or features.
3. Pay attention to minor details, such as cancel types and centering, as these factors influence value.

Evaluating Graded Stamps

Grading stamps adds clarity to their condition and centering, affecting their market value.

Notable Graded Examples

• Scott Number 404 (Pan-Pacific Issue): Graded 80 (very fine and never hinged), making it worth approximately 80% of catalog value.
• Scott Number 476: Graded 80 with original gum, indicating strong market appeal.

Tips for Identifying Rare Stamps

1. Understand Catalog Numbers: Learn the differences between similar designs and shades.
2. Verify Condition: Look for faults such as thins, creases, or tears.
3. Research Cancel Marks: Rare or unique cancellations can add significant value.
4. Send in Coils for Certification: Coils, particularly flat plate issues, are often faked by trimming perforations.

Coil Waste and Unique Features

Stamps like the Scott Number 545 (Coil Waste Issue) are rotary press stamps repurposed with full perforations. These require certification due to their unique production history.

Conclusion

Evaluating and authenticating rare stamps involves careful analysis, professional expertise, and a keen eye for detail. Whether you’re a collector or investor, understanding what makes a stamp valuable and taking the necessary steps to authenticate it will ensure you get the most from your collection.

Explore the fascinating world of stamp collecting, and remember, with experience and patience, this hobby can be incredibly rewarding.

Additional Resources

For more information on expertizing services and submission guidelines, refer to the links below. Happy collecting!