New York NY Provisional Stamps
New York, located in the northeastern region of North America, is historically significant as a key hub in the early postal network of the United States. While not an independent sovereign issuer, New York City served as a crucial center for the colonial and early federal postal systems, often featuring provisional or specialized markings reflecting its status as a major port of entry.
- Issued stamps
- 1842–1849
- Region
- Americas, North America
- Currency
- USD
- Languages
- English
- Issuer type
- Local postal administration
- Part of
- United States
History and background
Stamps issued under the authority of the United States generally feature English text, though early local post issues might reflect diverse immigrant populations. The city's immense growth and importance as a commercial center profoundly influenced the development of domestic and international mail services throughout the 19th and 20th centuries.
Further reading: Wikipedia
How to identify them
- Look for the distinctive 'NY' handstamp, often in red or black, on early covers or as cut squares.
- Examine the paper and printing method; these were crude compared to later federal issues.
- Authenticity is paramount; many forgeries exist. Expertization is highly recommended for any significant purchase.
Popular series
-
New York Postmaster's Provisional
1845-1847
The iconic 'NY' handstamped provisional, issued by the New York City postmaster, Robert H. Morris, before the general issue of U.S. stamps.
-
New York City Despatch Post
1842-1845
Stamps issued by a private local post operating in New York City, later acquired by the U.S. Post Office Department.
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
- $500–$5,000
- Scarce stamps
- $10,000–$100,000+
New York provisional stamps are highly sought after by collectors due to their historical significance as the first stamps issued in the United States. Values vary greatly based on condition, shade, cancellation, and specific variety. Genuine examples are rare and command significant prices.
Catalogs. New York NY 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 New York NY Provisional stamps
New York NY stamps refer primarily to the 'Postmaster's Provisional' stamps issued by the New York City post office between 1845 and 1847, before the first federal U.S. postage stamps were released. They also include issues from private local posts operating in the city.
Yes, New York NY provisional stamps are among the most valuable and historically significant stamps in U.S. philately. Their value can range from hundreds to tens of thousands of dollars, and even over $100,000 for exceptional examples, depending on condition, rarity, and specific variety.
Identifying New York NY provisional stamps involves looking for the characteristic 'NY' handstamp, often on covers. Due to their rarity and value, expert authentication is crucial. For a first lead, photograph the stamp in the Stamp Identifier app, then confirm the catalog number; valuable stamps deserve an expert opinion.
New York NY provisional stamps are extensively cataloged in major philatelic references, including the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue (under U.S. Postmasters' Provisionals), Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed listings, varieties, and estimated values.
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