Stamp collections take years to build up, but over time, the average collector can rack up thousands of dollars of value in U.S. postal stamps. The key to a high-value collection is to familiarize yourself with what makes a stamp worth more than others. Before getting your collection appraised, delve deeper into what makes for a covetable addition. 

What Makes an Individual Stamp Valuable?

Finding a stamp that you assume is worth a pretty penny is exciting until you discover it’s not as rare as you initially thought. Luckily, there are a few broad rules that apply to all stamps that determine whether it is a valuable addition or not. Unused, older stamps are worth much more for a collector, especially if the stamp still has the original sticky adhesive on the back. Any signs of creasing or tearing will lower the value, but if the piece is quite dated, it may still be worth a significant amount, so it’s best to check with your stamp dealer. Any stamp that was printed in the last 70 years is likely to be worth little more than its face value. 

What Makes a Stamp Collection Valuable?

When it comes to valuing an entire collection of stamps, the standards for quality change. A collection of stamps that are already adhered to an envelope is likely to be worth slightly less than a collection of unused postage. A box of loose stamps, for instance, is your best bet at raking in the big bucks. If you know that your collection is in good condition as a whole, you can then start to value the range piece by piece. Any stamp that is worn, torn or faded will bring the value of the collection down slightly. If you feel that yours is complete and ready to be appraised, bring it into a professional dealer.

If you’re an avid stamp collector in Cincinnati, OH, it’s time to get in touch with the team at Randy Scholl Stamp Company. Since their beginning in the 1940s, they have earned a stellar reputation as the area’s leading authority on collectibles. Whether you have an old, U.S. coin or stamp collection you’re ready to appraise, you can count on their well-informed staff to give you the help you need. For more information, visit them online or reach out at (513) 624-6800.