Baltimore Md Provisional Stamps
Baltimore, Maryland, is a major port city located in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States. As a key urban center within the original thirteen colonies, its postal history is integral to the development of the United States Post Office Department, predating the establishment of a unified national postal system.
- Issued stamps
- 1850–1857
- Region
- Americas, North America
- Currency
- USD
- Languages
- English
- Issuer type
- Local postal administration
- Part of
- United States
History and background
Stamps issued for use in Baltimore, prior to the general issuance of federal issues, reflect the early American postal environment where local postmasters often provided provisional services. The language appearing on these early provisional issues, as with all U. S. postal material, is English, documenting the city's transition from a colonial outpost to a significant American metropolis.
Further reading: Wikipedia
How to identify them
- Look for the portrait of Postmaster James M. Buchanan.
- The stamps are typically hand-stamped in black on various colored papers.
- Authenticity is paramount; expertization is required due to numerous forgeries.
Popular series
-
Baltimore Provisional Issue (5c)
1850
The iconic 5-cent provisional stamp issued by Postmaster James M. Buchanan, featuring his portrait. These were hand-stamped and are highly sought after.
-
Baltimore Provisional Issue (10c)
1850
The 10-cent provisional stamp, also issued by Postmaster Buchanan, complementing the 5-cent issue for higher denominations.
Value overview
Typical ranges as orientation, not prices for a particular stamp. Condition, variety and demand decide the value of your copy; for current asking prices, check listings or the app.
- Common stamps
- N/A (all are rare)
- Scarce stamps
- $5,000–$50,000+
Baltimore provisional stamps are extremely rare and valuable, with prices varying significantly based on condition, cancellations, and specific varieties. They are among the most prized U.S. local post issues.
Catalogs. Baltimore Md Provisional stamps are listed in the major world catalogs: Scott, Michel and Stanley Gibbons. Catalog numbers and groupings differ between them; the Stamp Identifier app shows the numbers it can find for your stamp.
Questions about Baltimore Md Provisional stamps
Baltimore Md stamps refer to the provisional postage stamps issued by the postmaster of Baltimore, Maryland, James M. Buchanan, in 1850. These were local issues created before the general issue of U.S. federal stamps became widely available, allowing the post office to collect postage in advance.
Yes, Baltimore Md provisional stamps are exceptionally valuable. They are considered classic U.S. philatelic rarities, with individual stamps often fetching thousands to tens of thousands of dollars at auction, depending on their condition, shade, and cancellation. Their scarcity and historical significance contribute to their high value.
Baltimore Md provisional stamps are identifiable by the central portrait of Postmaster James M. Buchanan, surrounded by text indicating 'U.S. POST OFFICE' and 'BALTIMORE, MD.' along with the denomination (5 Cents or 10 Cents). Due to their rarity and value, expert authentication is crucial. A photo in the Stamp Identifier app gives a first identification; check the catalog number in a specialised catalog before relying on it.
Baltimore Md provisional stamps are prominently listed in the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue, specifically within the U.S. section under 'Postmasters' Provisionals.' They are not typically found in international catalogs like Michel or Stanley Gibbons, as these focus on broader national issues.
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