How to Find Stamp Value
While it is easy to determine the range of values for a particular stamp using a catalog or price guide, the final determination of a stamp's value is based upon a number of factors. The most important factors affecting a stamps value are its condition, followed by rarity, supply and other market conditions. Especially high value stamps need to be evaluated by an expert for the purpose of authentication, grading, and obtaining a certificate for insurance or ease of selling the stamp at a later date.
Things You'll Need
- Stamp Catalog/Price Guide
- Watermark fluid/tray
- Stamp tongs
- Perforation Gauge
- Knowledge of stamp grading guidelines
Instructions
-
Basics of Stamp Value
-
1
Identify the stamp using your catalog. Be sure to handle your stamp with the tongs to avoid causing damage. Be cautious of look-a-like stamps, and use your perforation gauge and watermark kit (fluid and tray) to aid in identifying the stamp correctly. This can be very tricky, and in some instances, you may need an expert's assistance.
-
2
Look up the range of values for your stamp in the catalog. The catalog will list pricing based upon type (mint, used, unused), condition (no tears, thins or creases), and the centering of a stamp's image. Any flaw in the stamp will dramatically reduce its value.
-
-
3
Understand that the prices in the stamp catalog are only a guideline, and usually represent the retail prices of the stamp. That is, they are the prices a dealer will charge for an average stamp within each type category. Therefore, that price includes the dealer's profit. If you are looking to sell the stamp, don't expect to get get the full catalog value for the stamp. In fact, expect to get much less than catalog value for the stamp (as much as 60% below the listed value)
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Stamps of exceptional quality (mint, no flaws, and superb centering) can fetch a premium in the market. To certify a stamp as exceptional, consult an expert.
Most stamps will be of common, average value. Truly valuable stamps are uncommon, so don't immediately assume that your stamp will fetch top dollar, or that the stamp is a rare version of a look-a-like. Most of the time, it will fall into the category of the less valuable stamp. Many stamps are worth less than their printed denomination, and most stamps, even decades old, are worth much less than one dollar. If you are looking at your stamp collection for its value, and not for the enjoyment you get out of the stamps themselves, perhaps stamp collecting isn't the hobby for you.
