If you’re just now getting into stamp collecting, you’ll find that there’s a lot of lingo to learn. For example, you’ll hear about commemorative stamps. If you look at the prices for these stamps on the collector’s market, you can see they’re much more valuable than the standard coil stamps. Why is this so, and what have been some of the highlights in commemorative stamp-making in US history?
Let’s answer some of those questions now.
What is the Difference Between Commemorative and Definitive Stamps?
Before we get into what a commemorative stamp is, let’s talk about definitive stamps. A definitive stamp is an ordinary kind of stamp that you can buy at the post office. These stamps usually have very basic images on them, come in coils, and are intended for sending out large mailings. In the US, you’ll recognize the American flag, unfurling in the wind, as a common stamp image.
Even though they are common, many stamp collectors like to add definitive stamps to their collections. Why? The designs do slightly change from year to year. For instance, one stamp’s ink might be slightly off from the year before. Maybe there are inconsistencies with the perforations. These quirks and inconsistencies make them more interesting and valuable. And the art on some definitive stamps can be worth collecting for its beauty and history.
Unlike definitive stamps, commemorative stamps are created specifically for collecting. Commemorative stamps are released for a limited time and in limited quantities. When supplies run out, that’s it! No more of that stamp. If time runs out and some stamps are left unpurchased, they are usually destroyed. That makes the ones that were bought all the more valuable.
At times, a government or postal service may hold a first day of issue ceremony, which is an occasion to unveil the stamp and sell it for the first time. These ceremonies are often at locations connected with the subject on the stamp. Animal-related stamps, for example, have been first released at zoos for visitors to purchase as souvenirs.
During this day, there may be special paperwork or stamp sheets issued to prove that the stamps were obtained on the first day of release. Depending on the stamp set, this may greatly increase the value of the stamps beyond others in the same class. If you want to get your hands on a first day of issue sheet, check our announcements page for details on upcoming stamp releases.