Major And Minor Scott Numbers

I have noticed quite often that the Major scott # will be priced at more that a sub number. (For one of a thousand examples, Victoria #205 is $30 used. # 205a is $22.50 used). What gives? If the subnumber is more numerous than the main, why isn't THAT the main # and the main a minor variety?

In most cases, the "major" number was the primary stamp that was issued; the "subnumber" was found as a notable variety well after the first stamp was listed (and oftentimes, after many subsequent stamps were issued, too). In order to keep the numbering sequence reasonable, Scott typically adds suffixes to the number (lower case for minor varieties; upper case for major varieties).

If Scott were ever to try to renumber things as new varieties are found, it would put the stamp collecting community in turmoil, as it would be difficult, if not impossible, to re-number everything and it would render all of the old catalog number listings useless.

Hi

In addition to what wt1 says, the "minor" number stamp may have been issued in greater quantities and the readon that the price is lower.

Jerry B