Spain 1855 Queen Isabella II 1R Unstamped

Paul

I think you're letting your understandable wish to find something valuable cloud your judgment. Gum DOES matter on 19th century stamps. In the case of imperforate stamps, the size of the margins - and particularly having margins that are clear of the design, is key, not centring. And real-world prices are, in the main, a relatively small fraction kf catalogue values. So pagoda's estimate of selling price stands.

Geoff

Paul, the apparent crease that Pagoda is referring to is this.




If you stretch an imaginary line between the 2 points of the arrows, it does like a crease has been there and that someone in the past has flattened it out. This is what is normally referred to as "hidden crease". Maybe a dip in watermark fluid will see it more clearly.

I love it, new collector telling the seasoned veterans they're wrong. Paul, catalog values in no way represent retail values. Collectors / buyers are what set the market values and when it comes to imperforate stamps achieving say 50% of value the stamp must be in near perfect condition. Buyers of high end material become even more finicky about condition when they're shelling out $50 - $200 for 1 stamp. Centering and margins are not the only thing that determines grades and with the crease Pagoda is trying to explain the value is almost gone.

And two pin holes.

Paul, my recommendation is that you appreciate your stamps for what they represent: your grandfather's collection. It should be more valuable for you as a memory of him, appreciating all the care he has put into it. Retail value 'unfortunately' seems to be modest. You have demonstrated a keen interest in ID'ng stamps in the purpose of establishing catalog value. What if you simply forget the thought of some more Euros in your pocket. Maybe the real value given to you is that you could get involved in a new hobby. Expand on your grandfather's collection and get a 'love' for life. We are all willing to help you as long as you are open for advice.
Jon

Paco,

I saw those marks and thought they might have been just small black spots, if they are pin holes then my valuation drops to $ 1.00,

Pagoda