How Do You Determine USA Postage Stamp Value?
U.S. postage stamps have been in circulation since 1847, and thousands of stamps have since been issued. Determining the value of a stamp takes a certain amount of research and investigation. In addition to rarity and demand, U.S. stamp values are determined by their grade, which is a combination of two factors: soundness and centeredness. Place your stamp on a flat, clean surface, in a well-lit area. Evaluate the stamp’s soundness, using the magnifying glass. Soundness is the presence or absence of faults, such as tears, creases, spots, stains, color fading and faulty gum condition. Evaluate the stamp’s centeredness, which is the balance among the four margins, using the magnifying glass. Centeredness is rated on a scale from “good” (poorest) to “gem” (superb). Determine the preliminary stamp grade using the soundness and centeredness values. Greater soundness (or faultlessness) and centeredness are associated with higher values. Evaluate your stamp’s “eye appeal,” which is a determin
