1847usa.com was designed primarily to aid collectors in their identification of U.S. stamps. We are pleased that you have an interest in identifying your stamps, and would like to encourage you to supplement the information provided here with the reference material listed in the Literature section. If you are an APS member, many of these reference materials are available on loan at very reasonable rates from the APRL library.

We can not over-emphasize the importance of the "Scott Specialized Catalogue of U.S. Stamps and Covers". This is considered "the Bible" for U.S. collectors. You may obtain a copy from your local stamp dealer or from one of the many mail order firms found in stamp magazines. Most libraries have older copies of the catalog on the shelf, although you may have to take your stamps with you if the catalog is in the "Reference Only" section. Finally, many Scott catalogs are available on eBay. Try a search using "Scott Specialized" or "Scott Catalog" and you will be surprised at the nominal prices these catalogs bring at auction. For practical purposes, the information in a three year old Scott catalog can be nearly as helpful as the information in a current one.

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As you can well imagine, a lot of effort went into making this a pleasant, comfortable and informative site. Although we have gone to great lengths to insure the accuracy of the information available, it is inevitable that we have made an oversight or two, and we most certainly welcome any suggestions for corrections and/or additions. Some information, due to its very nature, may unfortunately be out of date. For example, the earliest known date of use may change if an earlier usage is found and documented. Often new discoveries or insights are made and we are hopeful our readers will help keep this site current. If you have current information regarding any matter please email us so that we can update our information and not confuse the reader. After all, we collect for the joy that stamps bring. It is hoped this site adds to that joy!