Stamp Market Tips: Strong demand for Olympic sheet

Russia — The Russian market for better material is still fairly strong.

Demand is highest for sets of Soviet Union stamps in mint never-hinged condition and unused hinged condition issued in the 1930s and earlier, but there are many later sets that are in demand as well.

In July 1964, the Soviet Union issued a set of six Olympic Events stamps (Scott 2921-26) to commemorate the XVIII Olympic Summer Games being held that year in Tokyo, Japan.

In addition to the six-stamp set, two 1-ruble imperforate souvenir sheets were also issued.

The Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue does not list these sheets, although it does note and value them.

The red sheet is valued at $6 in unused condition and $3 canceled. The green sheet is valued at $175 in unused condition and $225 canceled.

I have previously tipped the green souvenir sheet in the April 14, 2008; May 11, 2009; and Dec. 10, 2012; Stamp Market Tips columns. I use this souvenir sheet as a benchmark for the Russian market as a whole.

Today, the souvenir sheet is selling for around $225 in mint never-hinged condition.

The XXII Olympic Winter Games will be held Feb 7-23 in Sochi, Russia.

Interest in the upcoming Olympic Games could result in increased demand and higher prices for this souvenir sheet for a while.

A Linn’s editor did not find this week’s recommended stamps on zillionsofstamps.com.

Tip of the week

United States — I think that early classic U.S. stamps in unused no-gum condition are generally undervalued in the Scott Specialized Catalogue of United States Stamps and Covers. The values generally do not reflect the market demand.

Take for example, the 1853-55 3¢ George Washington stamps, types I and II (Scott 11-11A). The Scott U.S. specialized catalog values each at just $85 in unused no gum (or regummed) condition.

The hunt for such a stamp in very fine (four-margin) grade without defects could be quite rewarding. If you find one at that price, snap it up.

Remember, the margins need not be large, just clear of the frame lines to qualify as very fine. — H.G.