The Scott #491 stamp, issued in 1916, featuring a portrait of George Washington, is a highly sought-after item in the philatelic world. Its unique characteristics and historical significance make it a standout piece for collectors. Let's take a deeper look at its value, importance, and the potential for future appreciation.

Historical Significance of Scott #491

The Scott #491 is part of the Washington-Franklin Series of stamps, which were issued between 1908 and 1922. This series is renowned for its intricate design and the important figures it commemorates, most notably George Washington. The Scott #491 2-cent stamp was issued in 1916 and was part of a larger effort to update U.S. postage with more durable and visually striking designs.

Key Features:

• Issued in 1916: This stamp is from a pivotal period in U.S. postal history.
• Depicts George Washington: A historical icon, George Washington’s image graces many U.S. stamps, and this issue is no exception.
• Carmine Color: The bold red shade makes the stamp visually appealing and distinctive.
• Perf 10: This specific perforation style further differentiates the stamp from others.
• Type II: The "Type II" classification refers to a specific variation in the design that occurred during the printing process, making this version particularly desirable.

Market Value of Scott #491

The Scott #491 stamp is cataloged at a CV (catalog value) of $2,500 in mint hinged condition. However, the price you can expect to pay in the market varies based on the stamp's condition, demand, and rarity.

Current Market Prices:

• Mint Hinged VF (Very Fine): The catalog value for this condition is $2,500, but actual market prices for well-preserved examples can vary.
• Used Versions: A used Scott #491, depending on its condition, can range from $1,100 to $1,500.
• Mint Never-Hinged Versions: If you are lucky enough to find a mint never-hinged version, it can command upwards of $3,250 or more.

Condition Affects Value:

• Mint Hinged: Stamps that are in mint hinged condition—where the stamp has been previously mounted to an album with a small hinge—are worth less than mint never-hinged stamps, but they still carry substantial value due to their rarity.
• Very Fine (VF): Stamps in "Very Fine" condition are clean, with sharp perforations and bright color. These stamps are highly collectible and command higher prices.
• Centering: The centering of the design is also a key factor in the valuation. Well-centered stamps are more desirable among collectors and can fetch higher prices.

Importance in Philately

The Scott #491 stamp holds significant importance in the philatelic world for several reasons:

• Historical Context: As a part of the Washington-Franklin Series, the Scott #491 reflects the evolving designs of U.S. stamps during the early 20th century. This era marked a period of transition in U.S. postal history and is keenly studied by collectors.
• Scarcity: The Scott #491 is a rare stamp. While many were printed, only a limited number in mint condition survive today. This scarcity drives its high demand and value.
• Philatelic Interest: The Washington stamps are a favorite among collectors, and Scott #491 is no exception. Its Type II designation, combined with its rich history, makes it a must-have for serious collectors.

Future Value Predictions

The future value of rare stamps like the Scott #491 is heavily influenced by market trends, collector interest, and the overall state of philatelic demand. As more collectors enter the market, the value of sought-after stamps will likely continue to rise, especially in top-notch condition.

Predictions for the Next 10 Years:

• Appreciation Over Time: Due to the rarity and historical importance of Scott #491, it is expected to appreciate in value over the next decade. This stamp's catalog value is likely to increase as fewer mint examples are found, making well-preserved specimens more valuable.
• Increased Collector Demand: As collectors focus on acquiring complete sets or rarer issues from the Washington-Franklin series, demand for the Scott #491 may surge, driving up prices.
• Market Trends: The market for rare stamps tends to fluctuate, but stamps like Scott #491—due to their historical significance and limited availability—generally see a steady increase in value.

Why Buy from Rick’s Stamps?

At Rick’s Stamps, we are proud to offer the Scott #491 Mint Hinged VF 2-Cent Type II Washington Stamp in excellent condition for just $600 USD. This is a fantastic price for a stamp of this rarity, quality, and historical value.

BUY Scott #491 NOW

What You Get:

• Excellent Condition: Our Scott #491 is in mint hinged, very fine condition, ensuring its place as a premium collectible.
• Free Shipping: We offer free shipping to your door, ensuring that your collectible arrives safely and quickly.
• Trusted Seller: We are a local stamp store based in Milford, Delaware, committed to providing quality stamps at competitive prices.
• Secure Payment: We offer secure, hassle-free payment methods for your convenience.

Conclusion

The Scott #491 2-cent Type II Washington Stamp is not only a valuable piece of U.S. postal history but also a prime investment for collectors. With its strong market value, scarcity, and historical significance, this stamp is a must-have for any serious philatelist. As its value is expected to appreciate over the next decade, now is a great time to add it to your collection.

At Rick’s Stamps, we’re proud to offer this incredible stamp for $600 USD in excellent condition, with free shipping to your door. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to own a piece of history.

ORDER Scott #491 TODAY