Newfoundland postage stamp year 1887 stamp – 12c. Brownish red

Newfoundland postage stamp year 1887 stamp – 12c. Brownish red Unused MH

The Newfoundland postage stamp described as 12c. Brownish red from 1887 belongs to an important definitive issue of the colony.

Here are the key details about this stamp:

• Year of Issue: 1887 (Part of the 1880-1896 Queen Victoria Definitive Issue)
• Denomination: 12 Cents (12c)
• Color: Brownish red (or shades like purple-brown, brownish rose, or purple brown, depending on the specific printing and catalogue).
• Design: Like other Newfoundland stamps of this period, it features a portrait of Queen Victoria.
• Printer: American Bank Note Company.
• Perforation: Typically perforated 12.
• Catalog Numbers:
  • Scott Catalog: The 12-cent values in similar colors from this era are generally listed in the Scott #51 range (for the 12c Purple Brown, White Paper, of the 1894 issue) or in earlier similar issues.
  • Stanley Gibbons (SG) Catalog: The 12-cent value in this color range is often associated with the SG 58 (12c Brownish Red) of the 1887-1896 issue.

Value and Collectibility

As with all classic stamps, the value is highly dependent on:

1. Condition: A stamp that is “Unused Mint Hinged (MH)” or “Mint Never Hinged (MNH)” will be worth more than a “Used” stamp. The centering of the image and the condition of the gum are also factors.
2. Specific Shade/Variety: Minor differences in color (e.g., pale red-brown, purple-brown) or printing can result in different catalog numbers and significant variations in price.
3. Catalog Value: The catalog value for a 12c brownish red stamp from this era is typically in the range of tens of dollars or Euros, but a specific, rare variety or a stamp in superb condition can command a higher price at auction. One vendor listed an Unused MH example for $30.00$ (or $\text{\textsterling}30$) in a recent search.

To determine the precise value, you would need to consult a specialized Newfoundland or British Commonwealth stamp catalog (like the Scott or Stanley Gibbons catalogs) and compare your stamp to the specific listings, paying close attention to the exact shade and condition.