US Stamps
This pre-Civil War stamp is exquisite, valuable

By Henry Gitner and Rick Miller
There is no denying the appeal of classic U.S. stamps. From the often beautiful and intriguing designs to the fine engraving and printing, they appeal to the eye and make the heart beat a little faster. However, many of them are quite expensive.One of the most attractive of the pre-Civil War issues is the 1860 30¢ orange Benjamin Franklin stamp (Scott 38). The 2019 Scott Specialized Catalogue of United States Stamps and Covers values an example in very fine grade at $1,900 in unused original gum condition, $425 in used condition, and $700 in unused no-gum condition.
The margins on this issue are tiny, leaving little room for misalignment. Examples without faults and in truly VF grade are a good buy at full Scott catalog value.
However, if that is a bit rich for your budget, step down a grade to fine-very fine.
The 2019 Scott Stamp Values U.S. Specialized By Grade section of the Scott U.S. Specialized catalog values the stamp in F-VF grade at $1,225 in unused original gum condition, $285 in used condition, and $440 in unused no-gum condition. We think an unused no-gum example in F-VF grade without faults would be a great buy at around 80 percent of catalog value.When buying, check the perforations very carefully. This stamp is perforated gauge 15½ giving ample opportunity for short, pulled or blind perforations.
Connect with Linn’s Stamp News:
Sign up for our newsletter
Like us on Facebook
Follow us on Twitter
MORE RELATED ARTICLES
Headlines
-
US Stamps
Nov 30, 2023, 1 PMU.S. 2024 Love stamp to be issued Jan. 12 in Romance, Ark.
-
Postal Updates
Nov 30, 2023, 1 PMUSPS posts $6.5 billion loss in 2023, expects loss in 2024
-
World Stamps
Nov 29, 2023, 1 PMLuxembourg’s first stamp, issued in 1852, is affordable used
-
Postal Updates
Nov 28, 2023, 1 PMPuerto Rico celebrates 530 years with postmark, parade