Millbury Provisional Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Millbury Provisional Stamps
Millbury is a region whose postal history is not recognized within standard international philatelic catalogs as an independent, sovereign stamp-issuing entity. Therefore, its geographical location and specific postal administration context cannot be determined without further clarification regarding its political status, such as whether it is a municipality, a historical entity, or a dependency of a larger nation. Consequently, there is no established linguistic environment or distinct period of stamp issuance attributable solely to "Millbury" in global postal history. Any stamps associated with this name would likely fall under the jurisdiction of the larger country or territory it belongs to.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Americas
- Subregion:
- North America
- Issuing period:
- 1846 – 1846
- Languages:
- English
- Currency:
- USD
- Parent issuer:
- United States
Stamp Catalogs
Millbury Provisional stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Millbury Provisional Stamp Series
Millbury Provisional (1846)
The famous 5c black on bluish paper, handstamped by the postmaster, Dr. Asa Holman, before the general issue of U.S. stamps.
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Millbury Provisional Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: The Millbury Provisional is one of the rarest and most valuable of all U.S. Postmasters' Provisionals. Only a handful of examples are known to exist, making them highly sought after by advanced collectors. Their value is entirely dependent on condition, provenance, and whether they are on or off cover.
How to Identify Millbury Provisional Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Millbury Provisional stamps:
- 1 Look for a handstamped '5' in a circular frame, usually in black ink, on bluish paper.
- 2 The stamp typically features the word 'MILLBURY' in an arc above the '5' and 'MASS.' below.
- 3 Authenticity is paramount; expertization by a recognized philatelic organization (e.g., APS, PF) is essential for any purported Millbury Provisional.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Millbury stamps?
Millbury stamps refer to the extremely rare 'Millbury Provisional' stamp issued in 1846 by the postmaster of Millbury, Massachusetts, Dr. Asa Holman. It was a local stamp used before the first general issue of United States postage stamps.
Are Millbury stamps valuable?
Yes, Millbury stamps are among the most valuable and rarest stamps in U.S. philately. With only a few known examples, they command prices well into the hundreds of thousands of dollars at auction, making them highly prized by collectors of classic U.S. stamps.
How can I identify Millbury stamps?
Millbury stamps are identified by a distinctive handstamped design featuring a large '5' (for 5 cents) within a circular frame, often with 'MILLBURY' above and 'MASS.' below, printed in black ink on bluish paper. Due to their extreme rarity and value, expert authentication is crucial. A stamp identifier app can help with initial recognition, but professional certification is necessary for confirmation.
Which catalogs list Millbury stamps?
Millbury stamps are listed in major philatelic catalogs that cover United States stamps, including Scott (as part of U.S. Postmasters' Provisionals), Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information and valuations for the known examples.
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