Boscawen Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Boscawen (New Hampshire) Stamps
Boscawen is a historical name associated with territories that were part of British colonial administration in North America, specifically relating to New Hampshire. Postal history in this region falls under the broader context of the British North American postal system before the establishment of the United States. Stamps issued for this area would have reflected English language usage and the currency standards of the governing British authority or the subsequent independent American system. The administrative transition from colonial rule to the United States significantly altered the postal framework and subsequent stamp issues for the area now known as Boscawen, New Hampshire.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Americas
- Subregion:
- North America
- Issuing period:
- 1846 – 1846
- Languages:
- English
- Currency:
- USD
- Parent issuer:
- United States
Stamp Catalogs
Boscawen (New Hampshire) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Boscawen (New Hampshire) Stamp Series
Boscawen Postmaster's Provisional (1846)
A rare local provisional stamp issued by the postmaster of Boscawen, New Hampshire, before the general issue of U.S. stamps.
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Boscawen (New Hampshire) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: The Boscawen Postmaster's Provisional is exceedingly rare, with only a few known examples. Its value is highly dependent on condition, provenance, and specific variety. There are no 'common' stamps from Boscawen as an independent issuer.
How to Identify Boscawen (New Hampshire) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Boscawen (New Hampshire) stamps:
- 1 Look for 'Boscawen N.H.' or 'Boscawen' handstamped or printed on a stamp-like adhesive.
- 2 These are typically crude, locally produced items, often on colored paper.
- 3 Authentication by an expert is crucial due to extreme rarity and potential for forgeries.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Boscawen stamps?
Boscawen stamps refer to an extremely rare Postmaster's Provisional stamp issued in 1846 by the postmaster of Boscawen, New Hampshire. These were local adhesives used for postage before the first general issue of United States stamps.
Are Boscawen stamps valuable?
Yes, Boscawen Postmaster's Provisional stamps are among the most valuable and rare items in U.S. philately. Only a handful of examples are known to exist, and they can fetch tens of thousands of dollars or more at auction, depending on their condition and specific characteristics.
How can I identify Boscawen stamps?
Identifying a genuine Boscawen provisional requires expert knowledge. Key features include the 'Boscawen N.H.' inscription, the specific design, paper type, and cancellation. Due to their rarity and value, authentication by a recognized philatelic expert is essential. You can also use a stamp identifier app to help categorize stamps, but for such rare items, professional authentication is paramount.
Which catalogs list Boscawen stamps?
Boscawen Postmaster's Provisional stamps are listed in specialized catalogs such as the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue (Volume 1, United States). They are typically not found in general international catalogs like Michel or Stanley Gibbons, as they are a specific U.S. local issue.
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