Look Up Scott or Gibbons Catalog Values
2 hoursIdentify each stamp by catalog number and note mint and used catalog values.
Intermediate2-3 weeks
Philatelic Valuation Guide
Complete guide for philatelic valuation — step-by-step workflow, tools, checklist, and expert tips to get started.
investorsestate handlers
Workflow
Grade Condition Against Standard
2 hoursAssess centering, perforations, gum, cancellation, and faults for each stamp.
Research Actual Market Prices
2 hoursCheck eBay sold listings, StampAuctionNetwork, and dealer pricelists for realistic values.
Compile Valuation Report
1 hourSum collection value by category; note high-value items requiring individual insurance riders.
Tools Used
- Percentage CalculatorPrimary
Apply condition factor percentages to catalog values for realistic market valuation.
- NotepadPrimary
Compile valuation report with catalog numbers, grades, and estimated market values.
- Age CalculatorSupporting
Assess rarity factor based on stamp age and known print quantities.
- Image CompressorReference
Attach condition photos to valuation report for insurance documentation.
Checklist
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Research
Evaluation
Documentation
Compliance
Maintenance
Reference Materials
Condition Value FactorsTable
Multipliers applied to catalog value by grade.
| Grade | Factor | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Superb mint NH | 1.5–2.0× | Perfect centering, fresh gum |
| Fine mint NH | 1.0× | Catalog baseline |
| Fine used | 0.20–0.30× | Light cancel, intact perf |
| Damaged | 0.05–0.10× | Tears, thins, heavy cancel |
Market Value EstimateFormula
Estimated value = catalog value × condition factor × market discount (typically 0.3–0.5 for common material).
Expertizing StandardStandard
Stamps cataloging above $500 should be expertized (certified) before sale — fakes and repairs are common.
Sold Listings Only
eBay asking prices mean nothing — filter by completed/sold listings for real market data.
Expertizing Pays
A $50 expertizing fee on a $500 stamp prevents selling a fake for $500 or buying one.
Estate Tax
Stamp collections in estates may require professional appraisal — IRS Form 8283 for donations over $5,000.
Safety Notes
- High-value collections require secure storage — home safes rated for documents, not just cash.
- Do not ship valuable stamps without insurance and tracking — registered mail minimum for items over $100.