Finding the Condition and Value of a Postage Stamp

Find Your Stamp in the Catalog

Once you have determined your stamp's centering, gum condition (unused stamps), degree of cancellation (used stamps), and perf condition, you now may look in your catalog to determine it's value. Most stamp catalogs will have an illustration of your stamp along with a detailed list of varieties and conditions. The Step By Step Guide to Stamp Identification will help you determine your stamps variety if you are unsure. Earlier stamps usually will have a price listing for used and unused issues, average to very fine centering, and a premium price for original gum and non hinged issues.