Micanopy Provisional Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Micanopy, Florida (Local Post) Stamps
Micanopy is a municipality located in Alachua County, Florida, within the southeastern United States. As a locality within the United States, its postal history falls under the jurisdiction of the United States Postal Service, reflecting the broader administrative framework of the US federal government. Stamps issued for use in Micanopy would feature English as the primary language and adhere to US postal denominations and regulations. The area's postal evolution is intrinsically tied to the development of the American postal system following the establishment of the United States.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Americas
- Subregion:
- North America
- Issuing period:
- 1861 – 1861
- Languages:
- English
- Currency:
- USD
- Parent issuer:
- United States
Stamp Catalogs
Micanopy, Florida (Local Post) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Micanopy, Florida (Local Post) Stamp Series
Micanopy Provisional (1861)
The single known provisional stamp issued by the postmaster of Micanopy during the early days of the American Civil War, before Confederate stamps became widely available.
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Micanopy, Florida (Local Post) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: The Micanopy provisional stamp is exceedingly rare, with only a few examples known to exist. Its value is highly dependent on condition, provenance, and current market demand among specialist collectors of Confederate and U.S. local posts.
How to Identify Micanopy, Florida (Local Post) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Micanopy, Florida (Local Post) stamps:
- 1 Look for a handstamped 'PAID' in a circle, often in red, on a piece of paper, sometimes with '5' or '10' for denomination.
- 2 The stamp would typically be on cover (envelope) as a provisional issue, not an adhesive stamp in the modern sense.
- 3 Authenticity is paramount; expertization is required due to the rarity and high value.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Micanopy stamps?
Micanopy stamps refer to a provisional postal marking or 'stamp' issued by the local postmaster in Micanopy, Florida, during 1861. This was a temporary measure to facilitate mail delivery before official Confederate States of America stamps became readily available, making it a rare example of a U.S. local post during the Civil War era.
Are Micanopy stamps valuable?
Yes, Micanopy provisional stamps are extremely valuable. Due to their extreme rarity (only a handful are known to exist), they command significant prices, often ranging from $10,000 to over $50,000, depending on condition and whether they are on cover. They are highly sought after by specialist collectors of U.S. and Confederate postal history.
How can I identify Micanopy stamps?
Identifying a Micanopy provisional stamp requires expert knowledge. It typically consists of a handstamped 'PAID' in a circular design, often in red ink, sometimes with a manuscript or handstamped denomination (e.g., '5' or '10'). These are usually found on original envelopes (covers). Due to their rarity and potential for forgery, authentication by a recognized philatelic expert is essential. You can also use a stamp identifier app to help catalog and learn more about potential finds, though expert verification is crucial for such high-value items.
Which catalogs list Micanopy stamps?
Micanopy provisional stamps are listed in specialized catalogs focusing on U.S. local posts and Confederate postal history, most notably the Scott Specialized Catalogue of United States Stamps and Covers. They are generally not found in international catalogs like Michel or Stanley Gibbons, as these focus on sovereign nations' issues.
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