Raleigh Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Raleigh Stamps
Raleigh is not recognized as an independent country or a historical stamp-issuing entity in standard philatelic catalogs. As the capital city of North Carolina in the United States, its postal administration falls under the United States Postal Service (USPS). Therefore, stamps associated with Raleigh would typically feature English text and US denominations, reflecting the broader postal history of the United States. No distinct national postal history or separate stamp issues are attributed to Raleigh itself.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Americas
- Subregion:
- North America
- Issuing period:
- 1861 – 1861
- Languages:
- English
- Currency:
- USD
- Parent issuer:
- United States
Stamp Catalogs
Raleigh stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Raleigh Stamp Series
Raleigh Postmaster Provisional (1861)
Issued by the Raleigh postmaster during the early days of the American Civil War, before Confederate stamps became widely available. These are highly sought after by collectors.
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Raleigh Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Raleigh's philatelic significance lies almost entirely in its Postmaster Provisional stamp from 1861. These are exceedingly rare and valuable, with prices varying significantly based on condition, cancellations, and specific varieties. There are no 'common' Raleigh stamps as it was not a regular stamp-issuing entity.
How to Identify Raleigh Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Raleigh stamps:
- 1 Look for the 'Paid' handstamp and 'Raleigh, N.C.' postmark on a 5-cent stamp, typically on a buff or orange-yellow paper.
- 2 Authenticity is paramount for these rare provisionals; expertization is highly recommended.
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Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Raleigh stamps?
Raleigh, North Carolina, is not a standard stamp-issuing entity. Its philatelic history is primarily defined by a single 'Postmaster Provisional' stamp issued in 1861 during the American Civil War by the local postmaster, before official Confederate stamps were widely distributed. These were temporary issues to cover postal fees.
Are Raleigh stamps valuable?
Yes, the Raleigh Postmaster Provisional stamp from 1861 is extremely valuable due to its rarity and historical significance. Prices for authenticated examples can range from several thousand to tens of thousands of dollars, depending on condition and specific characteristics. There are no 'common' Raleigh stamps.
How can I identify Raleigh stamps?
Identifying a Raleigh Postmaster Provisional requires careful examination. Look for a 5-cent stamp, often on buff or orange-yellow paper, bearing a 'Paid' handstamp and a 'Raleigh, N.C.' postmark. Due to their rarity and value, expert authentication is crucial. You can also use a stamp identifier app to help with initial recognition, but for such high-value items, professional philatelic expertization is essential.
Which catalogs list Raleigh stamps?
The Raleigh Postmaster Provisional is listed in specialized catalogs like the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue, typically within the Confederate States of America or United States local issues sections. It is generally not found in general international catalogs like Michel or Stanley Gibbons as a distinct national entity.
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