1908 1-Cent Benjamin Franklin Stamp Value Guide

The 1908 1-Cent Benjamin Franklin stamp is a cornerstone of the Washington-Franklin Issues, the longest-running series in U.S. postal history. Featuring a profile portrait of the first Postmaster General, this green-inked issue is highly sought after for its historical significance and its role in early 20th-century American commerce.

What affects the value of 1908 1-Cent Benjamin Franklin Stamp?

• Centering of the portrait within the perforated margins significantly impacts the $50-$75 price range.
• The presence and quality of the original gum (OG) on the back of the stamp.
• The clarity and placement of any postal cancellations or ink markings.
• Overall paper preservation, including the absence of tears, thinning, or color fading.

How to Identify 1908 1-Cent Benjamin Franklin Stamp?

• Verify the Scott #314 designation, which features a profile portrait of Benjamin Franklin in a distinct green color.
• Check for the specific 1908 series perforations along the edges of the paper.
• Examine the '1 Cent 1' denomination text located at the bottom of the stamp's frame.
• Look for the flat plate printing characteristics typical of the early Washington-Franklin series.

History of 1908 1-Cent Benjamin Franklin Stamp

This stamp is part of the Washington-Franklin Issues, one of the most extensive and longest-running series of U.S. postage stamps, first released in 1908. Benjamin Franklin, a Founding Father and the first U.S. Postmaster General, was a popular figure on early American stamps. This particular issue, known as Scott #314, features a distinctive green color and was printed with perforations.