Expensive But Interesting Lot Of Classic Stamp

Maybe I've gone crazy... but I couldn't resist, just the colors of the cancellations made me lose my mind and I bought a new lot of classic American stamps paying about 150 dollars... a lot of money, but for the stamps that I have seen and pricing it at a low level I think I will be able to recover a large part of the money (if I manage to sell some, I have never done so) and keep most of the stamps...I don't know if these opportunities present themselves many times so I have decided to take advantage of it although this month I have already spent a lot of money on stamps... I think it is a good lot, what do you think?

Another nice group of classic stamps there, but I encourage you to pause before spending much more money with the hopes of recovering some or all of your costs.
Some of those stamps have a very high catalog value -- in 'very fine' condition. When not very well centered or with any faults, it can be difficult to sell them at 10% or less than catalog value. The #38 there looks nice, if sound. Seeing the #71 next to it with the rounded corner leads me to suspect the #38 may have a thin or tear or some other faults.
The stamps are beautiful examples of 1860s engraving and fancy cancellations, and these high value stamps are missing from most basic collections, so you got a good deal and I hope that you enjoy the stamps and hang on to them for a while. Just saying try to avoid the mindset of paying more for something that seems cheap with the idea that you can turn it around for a quick profit.

I will most likely keep them all since I adore them, I am in love with the classic US label. I have never sold and the truth is I don't feel like breaking my head over it... I prefer my heirs to do it hahaha I just want to enjoy their possession and enjoy them in my collection. What is certain is that this month I will not be able to go out to drink beer....

This is it, in a nut shell.

Recovering costs? Not in my lifetime

I love your enthusiasm, however, as I noted in another of your threads, PLEASE consider purchasing a used Scott U.S. Specialized catalog very soon ... one 4-6 years old. And note, the Scott "values" are for sound stamps in far better centering than typically encountered ... and to digest the "U.S. Specialized by Grade" section.

I'm working on it...I know I really need it and I'll try not to delay getting it

Go to the SCF Sales link and there are a few Specialized catalogues for sale there. Of course you might borrow one at your library if they have one there.

Unless you live in North America, the chances of finding a catalogue in a library are slim. The chances of the catalogue being a Scott one are virtually zero.

I already have the batch of stamps in my hands and I have identified them in this way...naturally I do not have a catalog yet, but more or less I think I am not too wrong for a first review...I must add that the sensation is impressive to handle these stamps... SC#77 SC#76a SC#38 SC#71 SC#35 SC#63 SC#64 SC#24 SC#26a SC#30a SC#70c SC#73 SC#68 SC#96 SC #97

As individuals I'm not sure if I'd buy any of these based on condition. These can all be found in much better shape, that's all.

I haven't done a market study yet... But their condition is fine for me, I see them as beautiful and an interesting historical piece!!! and for 10$ a head I don't think you can ask for much more...

Die Marken sehen dezentriert,schmutzig aus und die Zähnung ist schlecht, nicht sammelwürdig bis auf die 30 Cent SC38.

Please, use English.

Whether stamps are worth collecting is a choice of the collector.

Here is the translation of what 'rastapopoulos' posted:

"The stamps look off-centered, dirty and the perforation is bad, not collectible except for the 30 cents SC38."

- stamporator -

You've got a good start there Murasama. A nice group of early 19th century US Stamps. I second Mr. Becker's advise to get a recent version of the Scott U.S. Specialized catalog.

Regards,
Harper1249

As pointed out, the stamps are "dirty", and a couple appear still have something on the back. Could appearance be improved by soaking? Given the age and fragility of these stamps would it do more harm than good, if not what would be a good method to gently soak these?