Commemorative Stamp Value & Price Guide

Commemorative stamps are special postage issues created to honor significant people, historical events, and cultural milestones. Unlike definitive stamps, these are printed in limited quantities for a specific period, making them highly sought after by philatelists worldwide.

History of Commemorative Stamp

The tradition of commemorative stamps in the United States began in 1893 with the Columbian Exposition Issue, which celebrated the 400th anniversary of Christopher Columbus's voyage. This set changed the landscape of philately by moving beyond standard portraiture of presidents to depict vivid historical scenes and landscapes. Throughout the 20th century, the Post Office Department used these issues to celebrate everything from the Pan-American Exposition to the progress of the Woman Suffrage movement. These stamps served as a 'miniature history book' for the public, documenting the nation's social and scientific achievements. Today, they remain a vital part of postal history, capturing the aesthetic and political spirit of the eras in which they were released.

Value Factors for Commemorative Stamp

• The presence of a 'Plate Block' or 'Commemorative Panel' which includes additional margins and serial numbers.
• The rarity of the specific issue, particularly for older 19th-century stamps like the 1893 Landing of Columbus.
• The condition of the paper, specifically looking for the absence of foxing, toning, or small tears known as 'thin spots'.
• Market demand for specific themes, such as space exploration, famous inventors, or significant national anniversaries.

Tips for Buying Commemorative Stamp

• Check for original gum (OG) on the back of the stamp, as 'never hinged' specimens command the highest premiums.
• Examine the centering of the design within the perforated borders, as perfectly centered stamps are significantly more valuable.
• Look for crisp, clear cancellations on used stamps that do not obscure the primary artwork or historical dates.
• Verify the integrity of the perforations to ensure no teeth are missing or shortened, which can drastically reduce the item's grade.

Items in This Collection

• National Capital Sesquicentennial 3-cent Stamp
• Woman Suffrage 50th Anniversary Stamp
• United Nations 25th Anniversary Stamp
• American Chemical Society 3 Cent Stamp
• 100th Anniversary of Mail Order Stamp
• USPS Commemorative Panels
• Pony Express 80th Anniversary Stamp
• 1893 Landing of Columbus Stamp
• Verrazano-Narrows Bridge Stamp
• 1901 Pan-American Exposition 2-Cent Stamp
• First Voyage of Christopher Columbus Stamp