Statesville Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Statesville (Confederate Postmaster Provisional) Stamps
Statesville is not recognized as a sovereign country with its own postal administration in standard philatelic or geographical databases. Therefore, it lacks a distinct postal history, colonial background, or official language for stamp issuance. Any postal markings associated with a location named Statesville would typically fall under the jurisdiction of the larger nation in which it is situated, most commonly the United States. Without further context specifying a historical or political entity, a unique philatelic geography for "Statesville" cannot be established.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Americas
- Subregion:
- North America
- Issuing period:
- 1861 – 1861
- Languages:
- English
- Currency:
- USD
- Parent issuer:
- Confederate States of America
Stamp Catalogs
Statesville (Confederate Postmaster Provisional) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Statesville (Confederate Postmaster Provisional) Stamp Series
Statesville Postmaster Provisional (1861)
A single issue, handstamped and manuscript provisional stamp, created due to the disruption of postal services at the outbreak of the American Civil War.
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Statesville (Confederate Postmaster Provisional) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: The Statesville provisional is exceedingly rare, with only a handful of examples known. Its value is highly dependent on condition, provenance, and whether it is on or off cover. It is considered a major rarity in Confederate philately.
How to Identify Statesville (Confederate Postmaster Provisional) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Statesville (Confederate Postmaster Provisional) stamps:
- 1 Look for a handstamped 'PAID' in an oval or straight line, often accompanied by a manuscript '5' (cents) and 'Statesville, N.C.' or similar town marking.
- 2 The provisional was typically applied to covers (envelopes) rather than as a separate adhesive stamp. Authenticity is paramount due to its rarity.
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Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Statesville stamps?
Statesville stamps refer to a rare Confederate Postmaster Provisional issue from Statesville, North Carolina, created in 1861 at the outset of the American Civil War. These were temporary stamps or markings used by local postmasters when official Confederate stamps were not yet available.
Are Statesville stamps valuable?
Yes, Statesville provisional stamps are extremely valuable. They are among the rarest and most sought-after Confederate Postmaster Provisionals, with known examples fetching tens of thousands of dollars at auction. Their value is due to their scarcity and historical significance.
How can I identify Statesville stamps?
Identifying a Statesville provisional requires expert knowledge. Look for a handstamped 'PAID' marking, often with a manuscript '5' (cents) and a 'Statesville, N.C.' postmark, usually found on a cover (envelope). Due to their rarity and high value, authentication by a recognized philatelic expert is essential. You can also use a stamp identifier app to help with initial recognition, but professional verification is crucial.
Which catalogs list Statesville stamps?
Statesville provisional stamps are listed in major philatelic catalogs, including Scott (under Confederate States of America Postmaster Provisionals), Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information and valuations for this rare issue.
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