FAQ
What was the first postage stamp?
The Penny Black, issued by Great Britain on May 1, 1840. Featured a profile of young Queen Victoria. Over 68 million were printed in just over a year. Replaced by the Penny Red in 1841 because black cancellation marks were hard to see on black stamps.
What is the most valuable stamp?
The British Guiana 1c Magenta is the most valuable stamp in the world. Only one specimen exists. It sold for 9.5 million dollars in 2014 and 8.3 million in 2021. A schoolboy discovered it in 1873 and sold it for six shillings.
What is the Inverted Jenny?
A US 24 cent airmail stamp from 1918 featuring a Curtiss JN-4 biplane printed upside down. Only one sheet of 100 error stamps was sold. Individual copies sell for hundreds of thousands of dollars.
How do I start collecting stamps?
Start with a starter album and hinges or mounts. Ask family and friends for stamps from their mail. Buy kiloware bags of used stamps. Pick a theme or country to focus on. Join a stamp club. Use catalogues like Scott, Stanley Gibbons, or Michel to identify stamps. Condition is king: centered, undamaged stamps with original gum are most valuable.
Are old stamps valuable?
Most old stamps are not particularly valuable due to large print runs. Value depends on rarity, condition, demand, and historical significance. A common Penny Red may sell for 2 dollars while a rare error may sell for millions. Professional grading services like PSE and ASPS authenticate and grade stamps.
What is a first day cover?
A first day cover or FDC is an envelope bearing a stamp cancelled on its first day of issue. FDCs are collected as philatelic souvenirs. Modern US FDCs feature decorative cachets designed by artists. The first day of issue city is usually significant to the stamp subject.