Levi KeswickKey Takeaways:
- Unveiling the world of Nederland stamps and their intrinsic and monetary worth.
- Exploring the ten rarest and most valuable Dutch stamps, including their historical background and selling prices.
- Understanding the nuances that can turn ordinary stamps into high-value collectibles.
- Advice for stamp collectors and enthusiasts looking to evaluate their own stamps.
The Charm and Worth of Nederland Stamps
Philatelists (stamp collectors) and history enthusiasts alike find great intrigue and value in Nederland stamps. Known for their intricate designs and historical narratives, these stamps serve as miniature windows into the Netherlands’ past. However, what turns a seemingly common stamp into a valuable collector’s item often lies in the finer details – a unique mark, a slight curl, or even a printing error, subtle elements not immediately noticeable.
Beyond the Ordinary: Rarest Nederland Stamps Worth Money
While the majority of Dutch stamps might not be considered scarce or highly valuable, certain unique variants – including rare plate and color varieties, errors, gutter pairs, proofs, and specimens – command attention in the philatelic market. Here, we explore the ten rarest Dutch stamps that hold significant value for collectors.
The 15c on 17½c Ultramarine & Brown Stamp, 1924
Worth $4,750, the 1924 15c on 17½c ultramarine & brown stamp, perf 11½x11, is one of the most sought-after Dutch stamps. Featuring a left-facing portrait of a young Queen Wilhelmina, this vertical-format stamp boasts vibrant colors and exceptional condition. The finest known example was sold by Daniel F. Keller Auctions in 2016.
The 25c King William III Stamp, 1867
Valued at $3,603, this stamp marked the first instance of the country’s name appearing on Nederland postage. With its engraving on white, unwatermarked paper, this stamp encapsulates the reign of King William III, adding historical value to its philatelic worth. The stamp was auctioned off at Corinphila Veilingen in 2019.
The 1c Lilac Telegraph Stamp with Inverted Value, 1903
Regarded as a forgery, this stamp is nonetheless highly valued, having sold for $3,168 at a Corinphila auction in 2010. The stamp, recognized for its inverted value due to a cut-out center reinserted upside-down, stands as one of the most fascinating Dutch philatelic forgeries.
The 7 1/2c Dark Violet Stamp, 1927
Known as one of the rarest Netherlands issues, this $3,000 stamp features a syncopated perforation Type D. Its scarcity makes it a significant and challenging acquisition for collectors, with one of the rarest syncopated perf variants auctioned at H.R. Harmer in 2014.
The 10c Dark Carmine Stamp, 1852
This unique $2,900 stamp was part of the first release of Netherlands stamps in 1852. The 10 C. denomination stamp, engraved on white paper with a post horn watermark, was printed from different plates, resulting in numerous shades. Hammer auctioned one of the known 160 examples in 2014.
The 10g Independence Centenary Stamp, 1913
Issued to celebrate the centenary of Dutch independence, this $2,300 stamp features Queen Wilhelmina. An unhinged and post office fresh example of this rare item was sold at a Cherrystone auction in 2005.
The 7 1/2 g Marine Insurance Stamp, 1921
The 7½g Marine Insurance stamp, sold for $1,898 at Harmer-Schau Auctions, was part of a special service known as the DRIJVENDE BRANDKAST (floating safe). These buoyant safes, equipped with flares and bells, safeguarded valuable mail onboard sinking ships.
The 2 1/2 g Princess Wilhelmina Stamp, 1891
Celebrating Princess Wilhelmina’s ascension to the throne, this $1,471 stamp features a stunning design of the young queen. This example, sold by Corinphila Veilingen, highlights the intrinsic beauty of Dutch philately.
