How much is a used 1851 3-pence beaver Canadian postage stamp worth?
The Canadian source for the identification and value of Canadian stamps is the Unitrade Catalogue of Canadian Stamps. Google search – Unitrade. The 3 pence beaver was the first issued stamp of the (then colony of Canada. It has been issued three times, starting in 1851, until decimalization in 1859 The 1851 issue was imperforate (no little holes punched in the margin to tear the stamps apart). There are shades and irregularities that affect he value ($800 – $1500 CDN).. Printed on laid paper The issue of 1852- 57 differs form the first by being printed on wove paper, value ($150-$600 CDN) All value are for used (cancelled) specimens in “fine” condition A “fine” stamp is one which is a reasonably well-cenrtered stamp, with no damage aside from perhaps a “nibbed” perforation. Imperforate stamps must be cut clear of the design. Condition of the stamp and cancellation also seriously affects the value, but even a relatively poor stamp will often be purchased by a collector as a “spacefiller
