“Can I get rich collecting stamps?” many aspiring stamp collectors wonder. Well…Probably not.

Most philatelic hobbyists never get rich from their stamps. Rather, they collect for the sheer joy of their collection, for the thrill of searching for the stamps, for the beauty of the finished collection, and for the camaraderie with other collectors. That said, some stamps are quite valuable.

For example, Stamps.org reports that the 1857 3 skilling Banco Yellow of Sweden has a catalogue value of a whopping $ 2,000,000! And the U.S. 1868 1 cent Z Grill is reported to have sold for $ 935,000 in 1988.

Assuming that you do not own one of these extremely rare stamps, just how valuable are your stamps?

Many stamps’ worth is equal to or less than face value. Some are worth more. A stamp’s value is based on a variety of factors:

(1) Age of stamp – older stamps are usually worth more than new stamps.

Generally speaking, stamps older than 40 years are more valuable.

(2) Rarity – how many of the stamps are in circulation? Generally, a stamp that was a limited edition is worth more than one in mass circulation. If ten or less of the design are in existence, the stamp could be quite valuable.

(3) New or used – generally a new, unused stamp is worth more than a stamp that has been placed on mail.

(4) Condition – obviously, a stamp that is in excellent condition is worth more than one that is in poor condition. Check for color, brightness, smears, and tears.

There are books available that list values of stamps. When using these books, be sure to factor in your stamp’s condition and try to be as objective as possible. In the end, though, only a professional can accurately gauge your stamp’s value.

You can find professional stamp appraisers in your local Yellow Pages or online.

Philatelic organizations are also good sources for reputable appraisers.

No matter the monetary value, all stamps are valuable. They offer education, culture, pleasure, and camaraderie-and you can’t put a price tag on that.