New South Wales stamp 1854 – 6 d imperf QV ☀ Used
That is a highly collectible stamp! The New South Wales 1854 Six Pence (6d) Imperforate Queen Victoria stamp is a classic issue from the Australian Colonial era and is a key item for specialists.
This stamp is part of the second major definitive series for the colony, known as the “Diadem” or “Laureate” issues, due to the laurel wreath or diadem worn by Queen Victoria in the portrait.
Here are the details and key factors that determine the value of your stamp:
👑 New South Wales 1854 6d Imperforate
- Country/Colony: New South Wales (pre-Federation Australia).
- Year of Issue: 1854.
- Denomination: Six Pence (6d).
- Design: Queen Victoria, facing left, wearing a diadem. The value “SIX PENCE” appears at the bottom.
- Perforation: Imperforate (had to be cut with scissors or knife, which is a critical factor for grading).
- Catalogue Reference: This issue covers several different catalog numbers (e.g., Scott #27, Stanley Gibbons SG 94, SG 95, or SG 96), depending on the shade and watermarking.
🎨 The Importance of Colour and Shade
The 6d value was printed in several shades, which correspond to different catalogue numbers and vastly different values:
| Catalogue No. (SG) | Colour Description | Watermark | Status/Rarity |
| SG 94 | Grey | Watermark ‘6’ | Common in Used condition. |
| SG 95 | Olive-Grey | Watermark ‘6’ | Common in Used condition. |
| SG 96 | Greyish-Brown | Watermark ‘6’ | Common in Used condition. |
| SG 88 | Dull Green | Watermark ‘5’ | Significantly RARE. Issued in 1855, but part of the same series. |
💰 Value Breakdown
The market price of your stamp is highly dependent on two things: Margins and Condition.
| Condition | Common Shades (SG 94, 95, 96) Catalogue Value (CV) | Actual Market Price (Used) |
| Used, Poor Margins | £40 – £55 | $15 – $35 |
| Fine Used (4 Clear Margins) | £55 – £110 | $60 – $120 |
| Mint Never Hinged (MNH) | £3,000+ (Catalogue Value) | $1,500 – $3,000+ (Requires expert certification) |
Key Factor: Margins
Since the stamp is imperforate, the width of the margins on all four sides is the most critical element. A stamp that is “cut into” the design is worth very little. A “four-margin” copy where the design is completely clear of the cut is required for a premium price.
Special Note on Rarer Shades:
A used copy of the very rare SG 88 ‘Dull Green’ stamp carries a catalogue value of £650, while a mint example is worth significantly more, making the exact colour identification vital.
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