Pensacola Provisional Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Pensacola, Florida (Confederate Provisionals) Stamps
Pensacola is a city located in the southeastern United States, specifically in the state of Florida, North America. Its postal history is entirely integrated within the United States Postal Service (USPS) framework, reflecting the nation's development from early federal postal routes. Stamps issued for use in Pensacola feature English as the primary language and utilize US currency denominations, following the national postal regulations established by the USPS. As a municipality within the US, Pensacola has not historically maintained a separate postal administration or issued distinct local stamps.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Americas
- Subregion:
- North America
- Issuing period:
- 1861 – 1861
- Languages:
- English
- Currency:
- USD
- Parent issuer:
- United States
Stamp Catalogs
Pensacola, Florida (Confederate Provisionals) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Pensacola, Florida (Confederate Provisionals) Stamp Series
Pensacola Provisional (1861)
A single provisional stamp issued by the Pensacola postmaster during the early days of the American Civil War, before Confederate national issues became available.
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Pensacola, Florida (Confederate Provisionals) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: The Pensacola provisional stamp is exceedingly rare and highly sought after by collectors of Confederate postal history. Its value depends heavily on condition, cancellations, and provenance. No 'common' stamps exist for this issuer.
How to Identify Pensacola, Florida (Confederate Provisionals) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Pensacola, Florida (Confederate Provisionals) stamps:
- 1 Look for a 5-cent denomination, typically in blue, with 'P.O. at Pensacola, Fla.' or similar handstamped or printed text.
- 2 The stamp is a provisional issue, meaning it was created locally by the postmaster due to a lack of official stamps during the secession crisis.
- 3 Authenticity is paramount; expertization is highly recommended due to rarity and potential for forgeries.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Pensacola stamps?
Pensacola stamps refer to a single, extremely rare provisional stamp issued by the postmaster of Pensacola, Florida, in 1861 during the American Civil War. This local issue served to maintain postal service before official Confederate stamps were distributed.
Are Pensacola stamps valuable?
Yes, Pensacola provisional stamps are among the most valuable and rare items in Confederate postal history. A genuine example can fetch tens of thousands of dollars, making them highly prized by specialist collectors.
How can I identify Pensacola stamps?
Pensacola provisional stamps are typically 5-cent denominations, often in blue, with a distinctive handstamped or printed inscription indicating 'P.O. at Pensacola, Fla.' or similar. Due to their rarity and value, expert authentication is crucial. You can also use a stamp identifier app to help with initial recognition, but always seek professional verification for such high-value items.
Which catalogs list Pensacola stamps?
The Pensacola provisional stamp is listed in specialized catalogs focusing on United States and Confederate States postal history, most notably the Scott Specialized Catalogue of United States Stamps and Covers. It is generally not found in general world catalogs like Michel or Stanley Gibbons, as it is a highly specific local provisional issue.
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