It’s a good time to upgrade U.S. 1918 16¢ airmail stamp in your collection

May 21, 2025, 8 AM

Stamp Market Tips by Henry Gitner and Rick Miller

Classic stamps never go out of style. Collectors remain entranced by engraved, classic designs of historic subjects and monumental achievements.

In 1918 the U.S. Post Office Department issued the first U.S. airmail stamps. The 16¢ green Curtiss Jenny airmail stamp (Scott C2) was issued July 11, 1918, and reflected a reduction in rate from the original 24¢ carmine rose and blue Curtiss Jenny airmail stamp (C3).

The design, which was used for all three of the first U.S. airmail stamps, was the work of noted Bureau of Engraving and Printing engraver Clair Aubrey Huston. He based his design on a U.S. Department of War photograph of a Curtiss Jenny JN-4. The engraved design was finished just a few days before the first airmail stamps were issued on May 14, 1918.

While the album space for the 16¢ Curtiss Jenny stamp might be filled in most collections, many collectors are always looking for a better example to upgrade their collection. With many classic stamps returning to the market for the first time in decades as the albums of older collectors are closed, now is a great time to look to upgrade this stamp in your collection.

The Scott Specialized Catalogue of United States Stamps and Covers values the 16¢ airmail stamp at $60 in very fine grade and unused, hinged condition. An example in mint, never-hinged condition is valued at $120. A margin block of four with arrow at top or left is valued at $250. A plate number block of six with arrow is valued at $900.

The stamp in very fine grade is a good buy at around 75 percent of catalog value. Stamps in lower grades are readily available at much lower prices.

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