Why You Need "Local" Catalogues

"Local" catalogues, meaning those issued locally to the stamps issued are far more worthy of consideration when determining values.

For example, I recently bought this motor exhibition cover for a song. I collect neither post-war Germany or motor covers, but this was a true bargain.



The stamps are Scott German Occupation Stamps, 9N70-9N74, catalogued at $146.25 the set in 2008, no price on cover. However, the Michel 2004/05 Germany Specialised, Berlin (West) 75-79 catalogues the set at €200, or roughly $280. That's almost 100% premium.

I would imagine that Michel would understand German values better than Scott, or SG for that matter.

When in Rome and all that!

It may even be worth more if advertised in the German
"Motor Vehicle Study Unit"

"When in Rome......"

"Local" catalogues are just so much more useful for finding or identifying varieties, too. Since I'm not selling much, that feature is even more useful to me than the higher values.

Collin

When it comes to Germany Michel is the Bible. The German stamp market is also strongest in Germany. Many itmes were brought back to the US and UK and as a result have become quite scarce in Germany. You wil also find their values to be alot closer than Scott's. I know of a few dealers that will pay on average 75%-80% of Michel and send them immediately to Germany where they get 100% or more.

I do need to find an outlet for this cover as it's outside my interests. That will then free up some cash to buy more KGV's!

It's the kind of bargain you need to jump on when they pop up though, too good to pass up.

The one thing I don't have is an updated Stanley Gibbons value. Does anyone have a recent edition?

The online catalogue any good?
http://www.allworldstamps.com/

Sadly, no, it's about four-five years out of date.