Stamp Values: Frequently Asked Questions

Genuine scarcity, condition and collector demand, working together. Age alone does not make a stamp valuable. See what affects a stamp's value.

Some are, but most are not. Value comes from scarcity, condition and demand, so a common old stamp can be worth pennies while a scarce one is worth much more. See are my old stamps worth anything.

No. Many old stamps are common, and some modern stamps are valuable. Scarcity, condition and demand decide value, not age.

Because very few exist and many collectors want them, especially in fine condition. Rarity and demand together drive the highest prices. See rarity and demand.

A guide price published in a catalogue such as Stanley Gibbons, for a stamp in a stated condition. It is a reference point, not the price you will get. See Stanley Gibbons catalogue value.

Because catalogue value is a retail guide for fine examples, while real-world selling prices, especially for common or less-than-fine stamps, are lower. See catalogue value versus market value.

Because very common stamps are listed at a minimum price, so a thick album can show a large total made up almost entirely of inexpensive stamps. See why a large collection can be worth less than it looks.

Greatly. Margins, centring, freshness, gum and the absence of faults can change a stamp's value many times over. See how condition affects value.

Look for early issues, scarce varieties, errors and fine condition, but the surest way is to have it checked, since rarity is easy to misjudge. See how to spot a valuable stamp.

It can. A clear, fine or unusual cancellation can add value, while a heavy or damaging one can reduce it, and on some classic stamps the cancellation type matters a great deal.

From an affordable sum for a worn used example to many thousands for an unused or scarce one. It is iconic but not rare, so condition decides. See Penny Black value.

Most are very common and worth little. Value depends on the plate number, type and condition, and the legendary Plate 77 is among the most valuable stamps in the world. See Penny Red value.

Most are worth very little, and many sell below their cost, because so many were made. A few early or special covers are valuable. See are first day covers worth anything.

Most modern commemoratives are common and worth little. Value lies in early issues and genuine errors, and limited editions rarely rise in value. See commemorative stamp values.

Have them valued. Send clear photographs by email for a free, honest valuation. See how to get your stamps valued.

Ours is, with no obligation to sell. See free stamp valuation.

A dealer suits modest to mid material and quality singles, with speed and certainty; auction suits genuinely rare or high-value items. See selling at auction or to a dealer.

No. Never clean a stamp. It destroys value. Leave everything as it is and have it assessed.