Yes, even if that stamp were the $2 Columbian it would not be worth anything near $500 given the condition. There are creases, potentially one or two tears, frayed perforations, a heavy cancel and a very worn appearance. Were this the $2, I wouldn't pay $50 for it (not sure I would buy it for any price other than change).
"... I'll pay $50 for AS MANY $2 Columbians in that condition as you can get your hands on ..."
Ernie: You certainly know more about the stamp market than I do, but that's never stopped me before, so:
When we (the collective philatelic community) have these state-of-the-hobby / future-of-the-hobby discussions, there seems to be a consensus that:
- prices at the top of the market are okay, for reasons that include fat-pocketed Baby Boomer Returnees, and the continuing Tyranny of the Conditionistas (characterizations mine), and
- prices in the lower tiers of the market are falling, as the base of the collector pyramid narrows, eg, fewer newbies, more (shall we say) collectors emeriti, etc.
Q/ Why would you see longterm potential in a comparatively ratty $2 Columbian?
Cheers,
/s/ ikeyPikey
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"I collect stamps today precisely the way I collected stamps when I was ten years old."
"Why would you see longterm potential in a comparatively ratty $2 Columbian?"
I didn't interpret Ernie's remark as a forecast of prices in the distant future, but rather a recognition that a $2 Columbian in that quality would probably sell for $75 to $100 in today's market.
Lars
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"Expanding your knowledge faster than your collection can save you a few bucks."
The truth is within and only you can reveal it 01 Dec 2016 01:29:53am
re: Is this a Keeper? 1893 columbian Exop $2
I agree with Randy and Lars Although I would not want that stamp in my collection I would not hesitate paying $50 for a stamp I know I could sell quickly for a nice profit.