Hi folks,   If you're wondering about eBay item [removed by moderator] I actually purchased it and had it sent to Toronto (Vincent Graves Greene) for certification. I warned them that I didn't have a lot of time to ensure that I could return it to the eBay seller so I asked for an upfront assessment. They said that the stamp is not a genuine #3. It is a proof with laid lines added to it and they said that there's something suspicious behind all of the layers of hinges.    Just thought I'd save you the time and money. At least the seller didn't argue and gave me a full refund.   ... View more

As an AI language model, I don't have real-time data, but I can provide some insights based on information available up until September 2021. At that time, while philately, the hobby of collecting and studying postage stamps, had experienced a decline in popularity compared to its peak in the mid-20th century, it still had an active community of enthusiasts around the world. Philately has faced challenges in recent years due to changing communication technologies and the rise of digital communication. The decline in traditional mail usage has resulted in fewer stamps being issued, which could affect the appeal of stamp collecting for some individuals. Additionally, younger generations often have different interests and hobbies, and may not be as engaged with stamp collecting as previous generations. However, it's worth noting that while the hobby may not be as prominent as it once was, there are still many dedicated philatelists who find joy in collecting and studying stamps. Stamp exhibitions, clubs, and online communities continue to thrive, allowing enthusiasts to connect and share their passion for philately. The long-term outlook for any hobby is difficult to predict, as interests and trends can change over time. While philately may not be as popular as it once was, it is too early to definitively say whether it is a dying hobby. Ultimately, the future of philately will depend on the continued engagement of existing collectors and the ability to attract new enthusiasts.   Do you agree with this ?    @rathaphilately  ... View more

For years now (maybe I'm over thinking it) I can't tell if this stamp is either R159 or R160 (I'm open to comments), anyway this a document with one of the 1898 Provisional $5.00 Revenue stamp on it.   This is the only one I've seen.   The Boston book claims about 17,000 were issued.   Have anyone seen other on document usages?   ... View more

It’s been a while since I checked out older  US postage stamps on eBay.  Is this a new phenomenon, or have damaged stamps and rough space fillers always been offered at 25 to 40 or 50 percent of catalog?   Do stamps actually sell at these prices?  Just curious.  ... View more