Providence (USA Local Post) Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Providence (USA Local Post) Stamps
Providence is not recognized as a sovereign country with its own postal administration in standard philatelic catalogs or international geographical databases. Therefore, it lacks a distinct postal history, official stamp issues, or a defined geographical region for cataloging purposes. Any postal markings associated with "Providence" would typically relate to the city in Rhode Island, USA, or potentially a historical dependency or short-lived entity whose status is not universally recognized in global postal history.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Americas
- Subregion:
- North America
- Issuing period:
- 1846 – 1846
- Languages:
- English
- Currency:
- USD
- Parent issuer:
- United States
Stamp Catalogs
Providence (USA Local Post) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Providence (USA Local Post) Stamp Series
Providence Postmaster's Provisional (1846)
The singular issue from Providence, a provisional stamp issued by the postmaster before the general issue of U.S. stamps.
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Providence (USA Local Post) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: The Providence Postmaster's Provisional is an extremely rare and highly sought-after philatelic item. Its value depends heavily on condition, cancellations, and specific varieties (e.g., paper type, shade). Only a handful of examples are known to exist.
How to Identify Providence (USA Local Post) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Providence (USA Local Post) stamps:
- 1 Look for the inscription 'PROVIDENCE R.I.' at the top and 'POST OFFICE' at the bottom, surrounding a central design.
- 2 The stamp typically features a portrait, often of George Washington, though variations exist.
- 3 Examine the paper and printing method; these were crudely produced compared to later federal issues.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Providence stamps?
Providence stamps refer to the exceedingly rare 'Postmaster's Provisional' stamp issued in Providence, Rhode Island, USA, in 1846. These were local stamps used before the official issuance of federal U.S. postage stamps.
Are Providence stamps valuable?
Yes, Providence Postmaster's Provisional stamps are among the most valuable and rare philatelic items in U.S. postal history. Due to their scarcity and historical significance, individual stamps can fetch tens of thousands of dollars or more at auction, depending on their condition and provenance.
How can I identify Providence stamps?
Providence stamps are identified by their distinctive design, featuring 'PROVIDENCE R.I.' at the top and 'POST OFFICE' at the bottom, often with a central portrait. Given their rarity and value, authenticating a Providence stamp requires expert philatelic examination. You can use a stamp identifier app to get an initial indication, but professional appraisal is crucial for such a significant item.
Which catalogs list Providence stamps?
The Providence Postmaster's Provisional is listed in specialized U.S. stamp catalogs, most notably the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue, under the U.S. Postmasters' Provisionals section. It is typically not found in general international catalogs like Michel or Stanley Gibbons as a primary listing, but rather within the U.S. section.
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