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Stamp values

Canadian stamp values: what your Canada stamps are worth

Canada’s stamps start in 1851 with the 3d Beaver of the Province of Canada. Most collections hold large numbers of Queen Elizabeth II definitives, which are common. A few classics and popular 20th-century issues are worth looking for.

Short answer

Most Canadian stamps issued after 1950 are worth cents, and unused modern stamps sell near face value. Classic pence issues from 1851 to 1859 can be valuable. The 1851 12d Black is Canada’s best-known rarity, and the 1929 50 cent Bluenose is a popular stamp worth looking for in good condition.

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What most Canadian stamps are worth

Definitives of Queen Elizabeth II, from the Wilding and Cameo series to modern issues, survive in huge quantities. Value grows with age and condition: centering and gum are important on pre-1950 stamps, and a well-centered copy can sell for many times an off-center one.

Valuable stamps to look for

  • Canada 12-Penny Black 1851 rarity stamp

    12-Penny Black (1851)

    Printed with Queen Victoria’s portrait. Few were sold because of its high face value.

    Read the profile
  • 1851

    3d Beaver (1851)

    Canada’s first stamp, designed by Sandford Fleming.

  • 1929

    50c Bluenose (1929)

    Often called one of the most beautiful Canadian stamps. Well-centered unused copies sell well.

What to check before you price a stamp

  1. 1

    Check centering on pre-1950 stamps. It is one of the main price factors in Unitrade.

  2. 2

    Look for re-entries and plate varieties on the Bluenose and the Admiral issues.

  3. 3

    Keep precancels and stamps on cover separate. Some are worth more than loose copies.

  4. 4

    Look at the back for hinges and thins before you price an unused stamp.

Questions about Canada stamps

Are old Canadian stamps worth anything?

Pre-1950 stamps in good condition often have value. Most later definitives are common and worth cents.

How much is a Bluenose stamp worth?

It depends on condition. Used copies are affordable, while well-centered unused copies sell for considerably more.

What is the rarest Canadian stamp?

The 1851 12d Black is the best known. Few copies exist because its high face value meant few were sold.

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