“USPS stamp value” can mean postal value or collector value. This guide handles postal value: match the complete design, letter or name to an official USPS reference. For a collector-market estimate, use the separate stamp worth guide.

Common official examples

Stamp identifierUSPS postage valueImportant limit
H Stamp — Make-Up Price1¢Created to make up a rate difference; not a 33¢ letter stamp
H Stamp — First-Class Mail Price33¢Distinguish it from the H make-up stamp
Domestic Forever stampCurrent 1-ounce First-Class Mail letter priceDoes not automatically pay extra weight, nonmachinable, international or another class
Semipostal stampPostage value may differ from purchase priceThe contribution portion is not postage value

Identification method

  1. Compare the complete design, wording, color and letter—not one feature in isolation.
  2. Record the issue date if known and whether the stamp is unused or cancelled.
  3. Match the image and name in USPS QSG 604a or another applicable official listing.
  4. Use the listed postal value, not a marketplace asking price.
  5. If no reliable match is possible, leave the value unknown and seek specialist help.

Three different numbers

  • Postal value: the amount valid unused postage contributes to mailing.
  • Collector value: a market judgment based on exact identity, scarcity, condition and demand.
  • Seller price: an offer that may include a premium, discount, packaging or other costs.

Using several old stamps together

Valid fixed-denomination U.S. stamps can generally be combined to reach current required postage, subject to USPS eligibility rules. First determine the mailpiece class, weight, dimensions and surcharges; then total the stamps. Do not begin with a desired number of stamps.

Where to go next

Sources


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