Rutherfordton Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Rutherfordton (US Local Post) Stamps
Rutherfordton is a municipality located in the state of North Carolina, within the southeastern region of the United States of America. As part of the US postal system, its postal history is integrated with that of the United States Postal Service, reflecting national political periods and administrative changes. Stamps issued for use in this area would feature English text and denominations in US currency, consistent with the broader American philatelic tradition. There are no distinct postal administrations or colonial histories specific to Rutherfordton that differentiate its stamp issues from the rest of the nation.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Americas
- Subregion:
- North America
- Issuing period:
- 1861 – 1861
- Languages:
- English
- Currency:
- USD
- Parent issuer:
- United States
Stamp Catalogs
Rutherfordton (US Local Post) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Rutherfordton (US Local Post) Stamp Series
Rutherfordton Provisional (1861)
A single provisional stamp issued by the postmaster of Rutherfordton during the early days of the American Civil War, before Confederate stamps became widely available.
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Rutherfordton (US Local Post) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: The Rutherfordton provisional stamp is exceedingly rare, with only a handful of examples known to exist. Its value is highly dependent on condition, provenance, and whether it is on or off cover. It is considered a significant rarity in Confederate philately.
How to Identify Rutherfordton (US Local Post) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Rutherfordton (US Local Post) stamps:
- 1 Look for the handstamped 'PAID' and '5' (cents) in black ink, often on a blue or buff paper.
- 2 The stamp typically features the town name 'Rutherfordton, N.C.' in a circular or straight-line postmark.
- 3 Authenticity is paramount; due to its rarity, expertization is essential for any purported example.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Rutherfordton stamps?
Rutherfordton stamps refer to a single provisional stamp issued by the postmaster of Rutherfordton, North Carolina, in 1861. This 'Postmasters' Provisional' was created locally to facilitate mail service during the early stages of the American Civil War, before official Confederate States of America stamps were widely distributed.
Are Rutherfordton stamps valuable?
Yes, Rutherfordton provisional stamps are extremely valuable. They are considered one of the great rarities of Confederate philately. Only a very small number of examples are known to exist, making them highly sought after by collectors, with individual stamps fetching thousands to tens of thousands of dollars at auction.
How can I identify Rutherfordton stamps?
Rutherfordton provisional stamps are characterized by a handstamped 'PAID' and '5' (cents) in black ink, usually on blue or buff paper, often accompanied by a 'Rutherfordton, N.C.' postmark. Due to their extreme rarity and value, authenticating any such stamp requires expert philatelic examination. A stamp identifier app can help with initial recognition, but professional certification is crucial for these specific issues.
Which catalogs list Rutherfordton stamps?
Rutherfordton provisional stamps are listed in specialized catalogs focusing on United States and Confederate States philately, most notably the Scott Specialized Catalogue of United States Stamps and Covers. They are typically found under the Confederate States Postmasters' Provisionals section.
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