The Challenge of Look-Alike Stamps
Correctly identifying a postage stamp in a worldwide catalog can be a significant challenge. Knowing the issuing nation might narrow down your search, and finding the correct basic design gets you closer, but look-alike definitives printed over decades with only minor changes can frustrate even patient philatelists. To value these stamps accurately, you must pay close attention to subtle details.
Using a mobile application like StampSnap can help you quickly capture an image and create a likely identification record, giving you a starting point for deeper research. However, confirming the exact variety and its potential value requires a methodical physical examination of the stamp's text, dates, and paper structure.
Identifying Minor Inscription and Text Changes
Small text variations often dictate a stamp's catalog number and market value. For example, the 1886 half-cent North Borneo rose stamp features the word POSTAGE near the bottom of the design. However, the highly similar 1887 version features POSTAGE AND REVENUE on a scroll that spreads to the very edge of the design.
While this distinction is easy to miss for newcomers, identifying these specific text differences is essential for establishing the correct identity and value of the stamp. Always use a strong magnifying glass to inspect all text and inscriptions along the borders of similar designs.
Spotting Hidden Date Variations
Other look-alike issues can serve entirely different purposes based on tiny design elements. Under Austrian administration between 1912 and 1918, the earliest stamps of Liechtenstein featured the profile of Prince Johann II. The 1917 to 1918 20-heller dark green stamp was a standard definitive issue.
However, a highly similar stamp released on November 12, 1918, commemorated the 60th anniversary of the Prince's accession. This commemorative version replaced the upper corner designs with the tiny year-dates of his reign. Because these dates are so difficult to see, catalogs often include boldface notes to guide collectors through the valuation process.
The Role of Watermarks in Stamp Valuation
Watermarks are security measures incorporated into stamp paper during manufacturing to deter counterfeiting. Formed from dies attached to the paper-making frame, they create thin areas in the paper pulp in the shape of words, letters, or symbols. Some stamps were printed on both watermarked and unwatermarked paper, or on papers with entirely different watermark designs.
Because these differences are invisible from the front, a watermark can be the sole distinction between a highly common stamp and a rare variety valued in the hundreds or thousands of dollars. Consequently, watermark detection is a vital step in the valuation process.
How to Detect Watermarks Safely
To identify watermarks without damaging your stamps, place the stamp face down in a dark tray and moisten it with watermark fluid. This process temporarily brings up the watermark as dark lines against a lighter background. While some collectors use lighter fluid, the American Philatelic Society recommends commercial watermark fluids like Clarity, which are safer for your health and your stamps.
Watermark fluid evaporates quickly and will not damage the gum on an unused stamp. Additionally, dipping a stamp in watermark fluid is an excellent way to inspect it for hidden thins, creases, and other paper faults that could negatively impact its overall value.
Case Study: United States Watermark Variations
United States stamps provide a classic example of how watermark variations affect catalog classification. From 1895 to 1910, the United States Post Office used paper with a double-line USPS watermark. From 1910 to 1916, they transitioned to a single-line USPS watermark.
Because stamps often contain only a small portion of a single letter, these single-line watermarks can be exceptionally difficult to detect. Specialized equipment like the Safe Signoscope or the Morley Bright Watermark Detector can assist, though traditional watermark fluid remains a highly reliable method for collectors.
Valuing the World's First Stamps
When valuing early issues, historical significance does not always equate to extreme rarity. Great Britain issued the world's first postage stamp, the Penny Black, in 1840. Featuring Queen Victoria, these stamps cost one pence and did not include the country's name—a privilege still held by Great Britain today.
Because millions of these stamps were used, they are not tremendously valuable, and a nice used copy can be obtained relatively affordably today. Similarly, the first United States stamps, issued on July 1, 1847, and printed by Rawdon, Wright, Hatch and Edson, featured Benjamin Franklin (the five-cent red brown) and George Washington (the ten-cent black), representing historical milestones rather than unattainable rarities.
Best Practices for Collectors
To build an accurate and valuable collection, you must pay close attention to detail and maintain a relentless curiosity. Always document your findings systematically. Tools like StampSnap can help you maintain a digital inventory of your collection, making it easier to track which watermark or design varieties you have successfully identified.
By combining careful visual inspection, proper watermark testing, and catalog research, you can confidently navigate the complex world of stamp valuation and ensure your collection is accurately documented.
Frequently asked questions
How can I identify a stamp that does not have a country name printed on it?
Great Britain is the only country permitted to issue postage stamps without its name. Instead of the country name, these stamps feature an image of the ruling monarch, often located in the upper right corner.
What is the safest way to detect a watermark on a postage stamp?
The safest method is to place the stamp face down in a dark tray and apply a commercial watermark fluid, such as Clarity. This fluid evaporates quickly and does not damage the gum on unused stamps.
Why do stamps with the same design have different catalog values?
Stamps with identical designs may have different values due to subtle variations in inscriptions, dates, or watermarks. For example, a watermark can be the sole difference between a common stamp and a highly valuable variety.
What is the difference between the 1895 and 1910 United States watermarks?
United States stamps issued from 1895 to 1910 used a double-line USPS watermark, while those issued from 1910 to 1916 used a single-line USPS watermark.