Postage stamps have different values in the market, and often their perceived values will depend on availability, design and significance and the place of origin. This is the reason why the listing of valuable postage stamps is considered an elite list, since only a few stamps can be considered rare and highly valuable. And when it comes to valuable and classic postage stamps, collectors can’t go wrong with the postage stamps from Tuscany, Italy, particularly those that were issued from 1851 to 1860. These were the years of independence for Tuscany, before it was officially admitted into the United Provinces of Central Italy. The independence of the Grand Duchy of Tuscany ran from 1569 to 1859, and counted Florence as its capital. It was in 1862 when the state was... Read More
Stamp Magazine
Aside from denominations and design, the condition and stamp grade of the postage stamps are critical factors to consider in appraising the value of a stamp. The grade and condition can affect the overall valuation of the stamps, and help you build a world-class collection. In philately, the postage grade refers to the presence and quality of centering, the presence of cancellations, and the condition on the other hand focuses on the ‘actual damages’ including color fading, stains and alterations.
Determining the Condition of a Postage Stamp
One can easily check the condition of the postage stamp by visually checking the stamps. The same is true when it comes to faults - you need to physically examine the postage stamps to know... Read More
There are various ways in which Postage Stamps are packaged, and one arrangement is through the use of a miniature sheet. A Miniature Sheet or the Souvenir Sheet is composed of a number of stamps still attached on the original sheet of paper on which they are printed. Postage stamps may be considered as regular issues, or can be considered special issues when printed to commemorate an important event or celebration. The number of stamps in every sheet may vary - a miniature sheet may contain just one postage stamp, or it can contain around 25 postage stamps.
Postage stamps included in the sheet may be imperforate or perforated. The margins of the sheet may contain additional texts (see sheet above). The margins of the sheet may also contain other information... Read More
When it comes to scarcity and artistry, the two dollar Columbian stamps are considered a prized catch in the postage stamp market. The engraving on the postage stamp shows Columbus in chains, reminiscent of a probable image taken in the 15th century. For students of history, Columbus is a notable figure, having explored the ‘new world’ now known as America.
Only a few thousands were printed, thus making this postage a rare commodity in philately. These postage stamps were released in different values. And just like other early postage stamps, this issue has its own set of flaws. But these flaws did not deter the postage stamp collectors in investing in these stamps. In other stamps, the... Read More














