How to value a stamp collection?

What makes a valuable stamp collection?

When it comes to valuing a stamp collection there are certain things that will typically be looked for when deciding the overall worth.

Condition – The condition of the stamps will be a big factor in determining their value. Stamps are typically graded on a scale from superb to below average. Typically, anything below good isn’t thought to be worth including in a collection. Just minor differences in the condition of the stamp can have a significant impact on the stamp’s value.

The types of things included in the evaluation of stamp condition are the colour, the gum, the centering, the perforations etc.

Rarity – To make stamp collections valuable you really need to have a rare stamp included. Stamps which have been issued in large quantities will typically hold much lower values than those of which there were only a handful produced.

Face Value – stamps with a higher face value are typically worth more. Likewise, many sources state that stamps with face values in pounds and pence are worth less than those in £sd

The organisation of the collection – stamp collections which are loose or unsorted are very likely to have lower values than those which are well organised.

Besides that, you need to pay attention to:

Country and date of the stamp.
Any inscription on it.
Any watermarks.

Additional resources

Besides, you can get useful information from these additional resources: