Richmond (Confederate Local) Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Richmond (Confederate States of America Local Post) Stamps
Richmond is not recognized as a sovereign country with its own postal administration or stamp-issuing authority in standard philatelic geography. Therefore, it lacks a distinct geographical region, colonial history, or linguistic environment associated with national stamp production. Any postal material bearing the name "Richmond" would typically originate from a city or locality within a larger, recognized nation, such as the United States or Canada, and would fall under that country's postal history.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Americas
- Subregion:
- North America
- Issuing period:
- 1861 – 1861
- Languages:
- English
- Currency:
- USD
- Parent issuer:
- Confederate States of America
Stamp Catalogs
Richmond (Confederate States of America Local Post) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Richmond (Confederate States of America Local Post) Stamp Series
Richmond Provisional (1861)
Issued by the Richmond Postmaster, D.H. London, to meet local postal needs before official Confederate stamps were available. These are handstamped provisionals.
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Richmond (Confederate States of America Local Post) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Richmond provisional stamps are highly sought after by Confederate philately collectors. Their value varies significantly based on condition, shade, paper, and specific handstamp type. Authenticity is a major factor due to forgeries.
How to Identify Richmond (Confederate States of America Local Post) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Richmond (Confederate States of America Local Post) stamps:
- 1 Look for the handstamped 'RICHMOND VA.' or 'RICHMOND' with a denomination (e.g., '5 CENTS') on various paper types.
- 2 Examine the cancellation, which is often a manuscript 'Paid' or 'X' mark, or a town cancellation from Richmond.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Richmond stamps?
Richmond stamps refer to provisional stamps issued by the postmaster of Richmond, Virginia, in 1861, during the early days of the American Civil War. These were local issues used before the Confederate States of America began issuing its own national stamps.
Are Richmond stamps valuable?
Yes, Richmond provisional stamps are generally very valuable. They are considered rare and significant items in Confederate philately, with prices ranging from hundreds to tens of thousands of dollars, depending on their condition, specific variety, and authenticity.
How can I identify Richmond stamps?
Richmond stamps are identified by their distinctive handstamped designs, typically featuring 'RICHMOND VA.' or 'RICHMOND' along with a denomination like '5 CENTS'. Due to their rarity and value, expert authentication is often required. You can also use a stamp identifier app to help with initial recognition.
Which catalogs list Richmond stamps?
Richmond provisional stamps are primarily listed in the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue, specifically within the Confederate States of America section under 'Locals' or 'Provisional Issues'.
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