Lockdown Has Me Looking Through Old Stamp Albums

Hi,

Stuck indoors flicking through an old stamp album and came across these stamps. Have googled around and some seem interesting. Others I can't place. Any help much appreciated.

Also been trying to understand what different grills means and can't understand it at all.

I'd suggest using the Stamp Smarter site to help identify them. Grills are patterns of dots that were put on stamps to help prevent people from reusing stamps once they were cancelled. There is a section on that topic in Stamp Smarter too. You have stamps there from the late 1800s and early 1900s. They have condition issues, so they won't be high value, but they are still worth investigating and getting some education on. This is a good time for people to spend time with their hobbies. Have fun.

Thanks Risny for the info. I've tried looking for the dots but I can't see any even in close up - will have to invest in a magnifying glass [LOL]

Most stamps don't have grills. It you have any from the 1869 "pictorial" series - they all do have grills - you could check them there. Also if you think there is a grill present try shining a light from the side of the stamp - that makes the grill points cast little shadows and makes it easier to see.

Of the stamps you posted only the blue 1c Franklin has any chance of having a grill - but it probably doesn't. Grills are much more rare.

Hi McStampy.
I am also on lock down due to the virus.
You have come to the right place to learn about your stamps.
I only joined last year & knew nothing about stamps or their history.
I have learnt alot from Stampsmarter which is brilliant !
The members are fantastic & they have been of great help when I needed their advice on stamps.

Welcome To The

Welcome To The Forum