How to Identify Stamps: Country, Year and Catalog Number
Learn how to identify stamps: read the country name, date the design, measure perforations, check watermarks and find the catalog number to look up value.
By Ayoub Farid · · 2 min read
Identifying a stamp means pinning it to a catalog number — the key that unlocks its value. It sounds technical, but most stamps can be identified with a few simple steps.
1. Find the country
Most stamps name their country, though not always in English: "Helvetia" (Switzerland), "Magyar" (Hungary), "Nippon" (Japan), "Suomi" (Finland), "Deutsches Reich" (Germany). British stamps don't name the country at all — they show the monarch's head instead.
2. Read the denomination and design
The face value and currency narrow down the period, since currencies changed over time. The design — portrait, landmark, commemorative event — often points to a specific issue.
3. Estimate the date
Clues include the monarch or president shown, the currency, printing style, and any dates in the design. Postmarks on used stamps give a latest possible date.
4. Check perforations
Many stamps were issued in several versions that differ only in perforation size. A perforation gauge measures how many holes per 2 cm. Imperforate stamps (no holes) are a separate variety.
5. Look for a watermark
Hold the stamp face down on a dark surface or use watermark fluid: a faint pattern may appear in the paper. Watermarks separate otherwise identical issues, sometimes with big value differences.
6. Note the printing method and color shade
Engraved stamps have raised ink you can feel; lithographed and photogravure stamps look flatter. Color shades can also define varieties.
7. Find the catalog number
Major catalogs (Scott in the US, Stanley Gibbons in the UK, Michel in Germany, Yvert et Tellier in France) list every issue with numbers and values. Online catalogs and collector sites are also useful.
Speed it up with your phone
Scan a stamp with AntiqueIQ to get a likely identification, era and estimated value range, then confirm perforation and watermark details for the exact variety. See identify antiques by picture for photo tips — for stamps, shoot flat, straight-on, against a dark background.
Then check value
Once identified, judge condition and compare recent sold prices. See old stamps worth money.
Frequently asked questions
Why doesn't my stamp have a country name?
It's probably British. UK stamps show the monarch's portrait instead of a country name.
What tools do I need to identify stamps?
Tongs, a magnifier, a perforation gauge and a catalog. Watermark fluid helps for some issues.
Are catalog values what I'll get when selling?
Usually not. Catalog values are guides; real sales are often lower, especially for common stamps.