RS-91b

CV: $3.25

Match and Medicine stamps, especially used examples, are notorious for having faults, some small and some larger.  Despite this, they are the most desired and sought after of the revenue stamps.  Many of the faults are visible on the scan such as clipped corners, pin holes, creases or tears; others such as thins are not readily visible but may or may not be present and should be anticipated.

There are four main categories on Match & Medicine as described by type of paper and years of issue.  The following is a table of all

"a" Old Paper  (1862 to 1871)    "b"  Silk Paper  (1871 to 1877)       "c"  Pink Paper (1877 to 1878)       "d"  Watermarked Paper (1878 on)

Pricing for match and medicine stamps is also unlike other areas of philately.  Stamps with small faults typically sell for full catalog value or a large percentage thereof.  VF or better stamps with no visible faults can go for several time catalog value.