Fredericksburg Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Fredericksburg (Confederate States Local Post) Stamps
Fredericksburg, a historical entity often associated with colonial North America, would typically fall within the geographical context of the Eastern United States. Its postal history is intrinsically linked to the development of the United States Post Office Department, likely utilizing English as the primary language on its postal stationery and definitive issues. Any specific postal administration for Fredericksburg would have been subordinate to the broader American postal system, reflecting periods of colonial governance before full independence. Administrative transitions would mirror the political evolution of the surrounding state and the nation, impacting the standardization of postal rates and issues.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Americas
- Subregion:
- North America
- Issuing period:
- 1861 – 1861
- Languages:
- English
- Currency:
- USD
- Parent issuer:
- Confederate States of America
Stamp Catalogs
Fredericksburg (Confederate States Local Post) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Fredericksburg (Confederate States Local Post) Stamp Series
Fredericksburg Provisional Issue (1861)
A single provisional stamp issued by the Fredericksburg postmaster during the early days of the American Civil War, before Confederate general issues became widely available.
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Fredericksburg (Confederate States Local Post) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: The Fredericksburg provisional stamp is exceedingly rare, with very few known examples. Its value is highly dependent on condition, provenance, and whether it is on or off cover. It is a significant rarity in Confederate philately.
How to Identify Fredericksburg (Confederate States Local Post) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Fredericksburg (Confederate States Local Post) stamps:
- 1 Look for the handstamped 'PAID' and '5' (cents) in a circle, often in blue or black ink, on a piece of paper or envelope.
- 2 The stamp is not an engraved or printed adhesive stamp in the traditional sense, but a provisional handstamp applied by the postmaster.
- 3 Authenticity is paramount; expertization is required due to its rarity and value.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Fredericksburg stamps?
Fredericksburg stamps refer to a single provisional handstamped issue from Fredericksburg, Virginia, used briefly in 1861 during the American Civil War. It was a local measure by the postmaster to facilitate mail service before official Confederate stamps were readily available.
Are Fredericksburg stamps valuable?
Yes, Fredericksburg provisional stamps are extremely valuable due to their rarity and historical significance. Known examples can fetch prices ranging from $5,000 to over $20,000, depending on condition and whether they are on cover.
How can I identify Fredericksburg stamps?
Fredericksburg stamps are identified by a distinctive circular handstamp, typically in blue or black, containing 'PAID' and '5' (cents). Due to their rarity and the existence of forgeries, expert authentication is crucial. A stamp identifier app can help with initial recognition, but professional philatelic expertise is essential for confirmation.
Which catalogs list Fredericksburg stamps?
Fredericksburg provisional stamps are listed in specialized catalogs focusing on Confederate States of America philately, most notably the Scott Specialized Catalogue of United States Stamps and Covers. They are typically found under the Confederate States Local Posts section.
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