Baltimore Postmaster Provisional Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Baltimore Postmaster Provisional Stamps
Baltimore is a major port city located in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States, not an independent country with its own sovereign postal authority. Its postal history is entirely integrated within the United States Postal Service (USPS), reflecting the broader national postal evolution from early federal systems to modern operations. Consequently, stamps issued for use in Baltimore feature English text and denominations in US currency, adhering to federal postal regulations throughout its history since the nation's founding. The city's significant role as a commercial hub is reflected in the volume and variety of mail handled, but it never maintained a distinct national philatelic identity separate from the US.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Americas
- Subregion:
- North America
- Issuing period:
- 1845 – 1845
- Languages:
- English
- Currency:
- USD
- Parent issuer:
- United States
Stamp Catalogs
Baltimore Postmaster Provisional stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Baltimore Postmaster Provisional Stamp Series
Baltimore Postmaster Provisional (1845)
The iconic 5c and 10c stamps issued by Postmaster James M. Buchanan, featuring his signature or initials, representing one of the earliest forms of local postage in the US.
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Baltimore Postmaster Provisional Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Baltimore Postmaster Provisionals are exceedingly rare and highly sought after by collectors. Their value depends heavily on condition, type (5c or 10c), and specific varieties (e.g., pen-cancelled vs. handstamped).
How to Identify Baltimore Postmaster Provisional Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Baltimore Postmaster Provisional stamps:
- 1 Look for the engraved portrait of George Washington (5c) or Andrew Jackson (10c) with 'BALTIMORE' at the top and 'POST OFFICE' at the bottom.
- 2 Authentic stamps will bear the manuscript signature or initials 'J.M.B.' (James M. Buchanan) or 'J.M.Buchanan' in red ink, or a handstamped 'PAID' in red or black.
- 3 These stamps are typically found on cover, as loose examples are extremely rare and often cut from covers.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Baltimore stamps?
Baltimore stamps refer to the 'Postmaster Provisional' stamps issued by the Postmaster of Baltimore, James M. Buchanan, in 1845. These were local stamps created before the first general issue of United States federal postage stamps in 1847, used to prepay postage for mail originating in Baltimore.
Are Baltimore stamps valuable?
Yes, Baltimore Postmaster Provisional stamps are among the most valuable and historically significant stamps in U.S. philately. Due to their extreme rarity and historical importance, individual stamps can fetch tens of thousands to over a hundred thousand dollars at auction, depending on their condition and specific variety.
How can I identify Baltimore stamps?
Identifying authentic Baltimore Postmaster Provisionals requires expert knowledge. Key features include the engraved portraits (Washington for 5c, Jackson for 10c), the 'BALTIMORE POST OFFICE' inscription, and crucially, the manuscript signature or initials 'J.M.B.' or 'J.M.Buchanan' or a handstamped 'PAID' cancellation. Due to their high value, authentication by a recognized philatelic expert is essential. You can also use a stamp identifier app to get an initial assessment, but for these specific stamps, professional verification is paramount.
Which catalogs list Baltimore stamps?
Baltimore Postmaster Provisional stamps are listed in all major philatelic catalogs, including Scott (United States specialized catalog), Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. They are typically found under the 'United States' section, often in a dedicated 'Postmasters' Provisionals' category.
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