The world’s most expensive postage stamp
Stamp collectors around the world are well aware of the rarity and value of the British Guiana One-Cent Magenta. This postage stamp, first issued in 1856 in British Guiana (now known as Guyana), is considered the most expensive stamp in the world.
The story behind the One-Cent Magenta
The One-Cent Magenta was printed when a shipment of postage stamps from England failed to arrive in British Guiana. The local postmaster ordered a batch of emergency stamps to be printed by a local printer, using magenta ink. Only one sheet of stamps was produced, and the rest is history.
How much is it worth?
The One-Cent Magenta has been sold several times over the years, each time breaking the record for the most expensive stamp ever sold. The most recent sale, in 2014, saw the stamp sold for a staggering $9.48 million to an anonymous buyer.
Other valuable stamps
While the One-Cent Magenta is the most expensive stamp in the world, there are other rare and valuable stamps that command high prices at auctions. These include the British Penny Black, the 1855 Swedish Three-Skilling Banco, and the Treskilling Yellow, the only known copy of a misprinted Swedish stamp.
Stamp collecting as a hobby
Stamp collecting, also known as philately, is a hobby enjoyed by millions of people around the world. Collectors seek out rare and valuable stamps for their collections, and many also appreciate the historical and cultural significance of different postage stamps. Whether you are a novice or an experienced collector, stamp collecting can be a rewarding and engaging hobby.
