Italy kingdom postage stamp year 1863 5c – King Victor Emmanuel CV$1700 – MH stamp

The 1863 5 Centesimi stamp is part of the first definitive series issued by the unified Italian kingdom that actually featured the portrait of King Victor Emmanuel II, following the temporary issues of 1861-1862.

Here is a breakdown of the specific details for this important issue:

👑 The 1863 5 Centesimi Victor Emmanuel II Issue

Monarch: King Victor Emmanuel II (Vittorio Emanuele II)
Year of Issue: 1863 (The series began circulation in 1863 and replaced the older Sardinian/Matraire issues.)
Design: Features the profile of King Victor Emmanuel II, facing left. The stamps were engraved by Leonardo C. Wyon.
Denomination: 5 Centesimi (5c)
Colour: This stamp is typically printed in a shade of Grey or Grey-Green.
Printing: The 1863 series is famous for having two primary printings, which greatly affects value:
1. London Printing (De La Rue): Generally considered the original and often has clearer engraving. (Sassone L series, e.g., L16)
2. Turin Printing (Calcografia Italiana): Later printing using the London plates. (Sassone T series, e.g., T16)
Catalogue Number: Scott #26 (for the general issue) or Sassone #16 (T16 or L16 depending on the printing).

💰 Value and Condition

The value of the 1863 5c stamp varies dramatically based on its condition, the specific printing, and the presence of any known varieties.

Condition & Printing	Key Characteristic	Catalogue Value (Sassone)	Market Price Estimate
Common Used	Used, average centering, clear postmark.	€10 – €50 (Low End)	$5 – $15
Mint Hinged (MH)	Original gum, good centering. Turin Printing.	€150 – €500	$30 – $70
Mint Hinged (MH)	Original gum, good centering. London (De La Rue) Printing.	€800 – €1,500	$70 – $150
Rarer Varieties	Specific shade/paper/flaw variations (e.g., Sassone L16 Mint, Grey-Green)	Up to €9,000 (for perfectly centered, certified copies)	$500+ (Auction/Dealer Price)

The London vs. Turin Distinction is Key:

A well-centered, Mint Hinged copy of the London (De La Rue) printing is significantly rarer and more valuable than the Turin printing. Distinguishing between the two often requires an expert’s eye or a professional certificate.