Boston Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Boston (Local Post) Stamps
Boston, a major city in the northeastern United States, holds a significant, though localized, place in American postal history, primarily as a key hub for early colonial and revolutionary postal services. While not an independent stamp-issuing entity, its postal administration was central to the development of the early American postal system, predating the establishment of the United States Post Office Department. Stamps issued for use within the city and region would overwhelmingly feature English text and denominations in US currency following the establishment of the federal postal system. The city’s historical importance is reflected in early colonial postal markings rather than distinct national issues.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Americas
- Subregion:
- North America
- Issuing period:
- None
- Languages:
- English
- Currency:
- USD
- Parent issuer:
- United States
Stamp Catalogs
Boston (Local Post) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Boston (Local Post) Stamp Series
Boston Postmaster's Provisional (1845-1847)
Early provisional stamps issued by the Boston postmaster before the general issue of U.S. stamps.
Boston Penny Post (1840s-1850s)
Stamps and postal markings from private local delivery services operating within Boston.
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Boston (Local Post) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: The value of Boston postal items varies dramatically. Early postmaster's provisionals and rare local post issues can command significant prices, especially if well-preserved or on cover. Common postal markings or later local delivery service items are generally less valuable.
How to Identify Boston (Local Post) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Boston (Local Post) stamps:
- 1 Look for 'BOSTON' handstamps or cancellations on early U.S. covers.
- 2 Identify 'Boston Postmaster's Provisional' stamps by their distinctive design and 'PAID' or '5 CENTS' inscriptions.
- 3 Examine local post stamps for specific company names like 'Boyd's City Express Post' or similar Boston-based services.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Boston stamps?
Boston stamps primarily refer to early postal markings, postmaster's provisionals, and local post stamps issued by private carriers within the city of Boston, predating or supplementing the official U.S. postal system. These are not national issues but rather localized postal artifacts.
Are Boston stamps valuable?
Yes, some Boston postal items can be very valuable. Early Boston Postmaster's Provisionals, especially on cover, are highly sought after by collectors. Rare local post stamps and distinctive cancellations can also fetch significant prices, ranging from hundreds to tens of thousands of dollars. Common postal markings are generally less valuable.
How can I identify Boston stamps?
Identifying Boston postal items involves recognizing specific handstamps, cancellations, and the designs of local post stamps. Look for the city name 'BOSTON' in various forms. For precise identification and valuation, using a specialized catalog like Scott and a stamp identifier app can be extremely helpful.
Which catalogs list Boston stamps?
The Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue, particularly Volume 1 (U.S. and Possessions), lists Boston Postmaster's Provisionals and some significant local post issues. Specialized catalogs for U.S. local posts and postal history also provide detailed information.
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