Why are different examples of the same stamp priced differently?
First of all, make sure that the stamps you are comparing are the same, either mint or used. Assuming they are the same, the price difference is most likely due to condition and/or centering. Stamps which are described as having XF or Superb centering usually bring near full catalog value and frequently sell for more than full catalog price. Stamps in this condition are not common and they are highly sought after. Stamps that exhibit AVE centering sell for much less because one or more parts of the stamp design are often cut off by the perforations (or on early imperforate stamps, parts of the stamp design are missing because of how the stamp was cut apart from the pane of stamps). Condition is also a factor in setting a value. Damaged stamps (thins, missing perforations, stains, tears, etc) sell for much less than undamaged copies. Generally speaking, the better the condition of the stamp and the better the centering, the higher the price that it will sell for. In the case of used sta
