So You Think You Have a Million Dollar Two-Cent Washington? Hold Your Horses (Literally, They Didn't Have Self-Adhesive Back Then)
Let's face it, we've all dug through grandma's attic and stumbled upon a dusty shoebox filled with forgotten treasures. And let's be even more honest, a tiny part of us hopes to unearth a hidden fortune – maybe a priceless stamp collection? Well, if you've come across a two-cent Washington stamp, your attic adventure has just begun! But before you start practicing your victory dance (the Charleston is always a good choice for pre-1920s finds), here's how to figure out if you're holding a philatelic goldmine or a trip down memory lane.
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| How Do I Identify My Washington 2 Cent Stamp |
Deciphering the Details: A Washingtonian Whodunit
There's more to a stamp than meets the eye (unless your eye is a jeweler's loupe, in which case, kudos!). Here's what to pay attention to:
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The All-Important Perforations: Those tiny holes on the side? They're called perforations, and the number of holes per inch tells a story. Invest in a perforation gauge (it's basically a fancy ruler for stamp holes) and see if your Washington matches a known issue. Remember, even a hole more or less can mean the difference between "neat find" and "neat find that might pay for dinner!"
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Watermark Woes: Did you know some stamps have hidden messages? No, not secret government codes (although that would be cool), but a faint image, usually the issuing country's initials, embedded in the paper. You'll need a watermark tray and fluid to see this, but if your stamp boasts a sneaky "USPS," congratulations, you've got a pre-1916 Washington!
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Shading Shenanigans: Grab your magnifying glass (or monocle, if you're feeling fancy) and take a closer look at the details on your stamp. Are there tiny lines next to Washington's ear, or perhaps variations in the ribbon shading? These subtle differences can indicate different printings, and some are much rarer (and more valuable) than others.
Remember: Condition is key! A pristine, mint-condition stamp is worth more than a stamp that's been through the postal wringer.
I Found a Rare Washington! Now What?
Don't go quitting your day job just yet. While there are valuable two-cent Washingtons out there, it's important to get your stamp professionally appraised. Consult a reputable stamp dealer or philatelic society to get an accurate valuation.
Tip: Reading in chunks improves focus.
But hey, even if your Washington isn't a fortune-maker, it's a cool piece of history!
Frequently Asked Washingtonian Inquiries:
How to tell if my stamp is mint condition?
A mint condition stamp has never been used, has original gum (the sticky stuff on the back), and is free of any tears, creases, or cancellations.
Tip: Reading in short bursts can keep focus high.
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How to find a stamp dealer?
Look online or ask at your local stamp club for reputable dealers in your area.
How to care for my stamp collection?
QuickTip: Revisit key lines for better recall.
Store your stamps in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Invest in stamp albums or archival sleeves to protect them.
How to learn more about stamp collecting?
Join a stamp club or philatelic society! There's a whole world of stamp enthusiasts out there waiting to share their knowledge.
QuickTip: Use CTRL + F to search for keywords quickly.
How to impress your friends with your newfound stamp expertise?
Casually drop the term "philately" (the study of stamps) into conversation. Bonus points for using it correctly in a sentence.
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