Introduction
Hey there, readers! Welcome to our comprehensive guide to the fascinating world of Franklin Glen Allen precancelled singles. These unique postage stamps have captivated collectors for decades, offering a glimpse into a bygone era of mail delivery. As we delve into their history, characteristics, and value, you’ll discover the allure that makes Franklin Glen Allen precancelled singles so sought-after.
The History of Franklin Glen Allen
Nestled in the heart of Virginia, Franklin Glen Allen was a small town that played a pivotal role in the development of precancelled postage stamps. In 1907, the town’s postmaster, Charles M. Dickenson, initiated a system to simplify the mail processing process. By precancelling stamps at the town’s post office, he eliminated the need for individual stamps to be cancelled by hand, saving time and reducing the risk of delays.
The First Precancelled Stamps
Dickenson’s innovation quickly gained attention, and other postmasters across the United States followed suit. However, the stamps produced by Franklin Glen Allen stood out from the rest. The town’s name was prominently printed on the stamps, making them highly recognizable. This unique feature made Franklin Glen Allen precancelled singles instant collector’s items.
Characteristics of Franklin Glen Allen Precancelled Singles
Design and Denominations
Franklin Glen Allen precancelled singles feature a simple yet elegant design. The stamps typically display the town’s name and the denomination in bold, black type. The precancellation mark is located in the upper right corner and includes the date and the initials "FGA." Commonly found denominations include 1 cent, 2 cents, and 5 cents.
Color and Paper
The color of Franklin Glen Allen precancelled singles varies depending on the denomination. 1 cent stamps are green, 2 cents are red, and 5 cents are blue. The stamps are printed on thin, porous paper that absorbs ink well. This characteristic makes them susceptible to smudging and damage, adding to their collectible value.
Value and Collecting
Scarcity and Demand
Franklin Glen Allen precancelled singles are relatively scarce due to their limited production and the passage of time. The high demand among collectors has driven up their value significantly. Well-preserved stamps in good condition can fetch hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
Types of Collectors
Franklin Glen Allen precancelled singles appeal to a wide range of collectors, including:
- Philatelists: Collectors of postage stamps who specialize in specific areas or periods.
- Town collectors: Individuals who collect stamps and other memorabilia related to their hometown.
- Error collectors: Collectors who seek out stamps with printing or design errors.
Franklin Glen Allen Precancelled Single Guide
| Denomination | Color | Precancellation Mark | Value Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 cent | Green | FGA 1907 | $50 – $200 |
| 2 cents | Red | FGA 1908 | $100 – $500 |
| 5 cents | Blue | FGA 1909 | $200 – $1,000 |
Conclusion
The Franklin Glen Allen precancelled single is a testament to the ingenuity and creativity of America’s postal system. These unique stamps offer a fascinating glimpse into the past and continue to captivate collectors today. If you’re interested in exploring the world of philately, be sure to check out our other articles on rare and valuable stamps.
FAQ about Franklin Glen Allen Precancelled Single
What is a Franklin Glen Allen Precancelled Single?
Answer: A Franklin Glen Allen Precancelled Single is a first-class postage stamp that has been perforated and pre-cancelled with the Glen Allen, Virginia, postmark.
When were Franklin Glen Allen Precancelled Singles first issued?
Answer: Franklin Glen Allen Precancelled Singles were first issued on July 1, 1954.
Why were Franklin Glen Allen Precancelled Singles issued?
Answer: Franklin Glen Allen Precancelled Singles were issued to save time and money for businesses that mailed large volumes of first-class mail.
How can I identify a Franklin Glen Allen Precancelled Single?
Answer: Franklin Glen Allen Precancelled Singles have a perfin of "Glen Allen, Va." on the back of the stamp.
What is the value of a Franklin Glen Allen Precancelled Single?
Answer: The value of a Franklin Glen Allen Precancelled Single depends on its age, condition, and rarity.
Are Franklin Glen Allen Precancelled Singles still valid for postage?
Answer: No, Franklin Glen Allen Precancelled Singles are no longer valid for postage.
How can I obtain Franklin Glen Allen Precancelled Singles?
Answer: Franklin Glen Allen Precancelled Singles can be purchased from stamp dealers or online auction sites.
What are some of the most common errors found on Franklin Glen Allen Precancelled Singles?
Answer: Some of the most common errors found on Franklin Glen Allen Precancelled Singles include missing perfs, double perfs, and inverted perfs.
Are Franklin Glen Allen Precancelled Singles considered to be postage stamps?
Answer: Yes, Franklin Glen Allen Precancelled Singles are considered to be postage stamps, as they were issued by the United States Postal Service and were valid for postage at the time of their issuance.
What is the difference between a Franklin Glen Allen Precancelled Single and a Precancelled Stamp?
Answer: A Franklin Glen Allen Precancelled Single is a single postage stamp that has been pre-cancelled, while a Precancelled Stamp is a sheet of postage stamps that have been pre-cancelled.
