Rare 1-Cent Benjamin Franklin Stamp Value: Collector's Guide to Identification & Worth
Discover the true value of rare 1-cent Benjamin Franklin stamps, from common issues worth a few dollars to scarce varieties worth thousands. Learn identification tips and current market prices.
By Appraisily TeamLast updated October 8, 2023
Introduction to Benjamin Franklin Stamps
Benjamin Franklin, America’s founding father and first Postmaster General, has been honored on more U.S. postage stamps than any figure except George Washington. The 1-cent Franklin stamp is particularly iconic, with numerous varieties produced over decades. While most 1-cent Franklin stamps are common and worth only a few dollars or less, certain rare varieties can command thousands of dollars at auction.
This guide will help you understand which 1-cent Benjamin Franklin stamps are truly valuable, how to identify them, and their current market values. We’ll explore the most sought-after varieties and explain why some seemingly ordinary stamps can be worth a fortune while others are worth mere pocket change.
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<span>Understanding Benjamin Franklin Stamp History</span>
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<div class="section-header__body">Benjamin Franklin stamps have a rich history that spans over 150 years of American postal service. The first Benjamin Franklin stamps were issued in 1847, and his image has appeared on numerous denominations since then, with the 1-cent green being among the most common.</div>
Evolution of 1-Cent Benjamin Franklin Stamps
1847
First U.S. Postage Stamps
The first U.S. postage stamps featured Benjamin Franklin (5-cent) and George Washington (10-cent). These early Franklin stamps are extremely valuable.
1867-1868
Z Grill Issue
The rarest Benjamin Franklin stamp is the 1-cent Z grill (Scott #85A), with only two known copies in existence. One sold for $935,000 in 1998.
1902-1908
Second Bureau Issues
The 1-cent Franklin stamps from this period featured a redesigned portrait. Some varieties from this era can be quite valuable.
1912-1914
Washington-Franklin Issues
Benjamin Franklin appeared on the 1-cent denomination in the Washington-Franklin series with various perforations and watermarks creating valuable varieties.
1923
Rotary Press Rarities
The 1¢ green Franklin stamps printed by rotary press and perforated 11 (Scott #594 and #596) are among the most valuable 20th-century U.S. stamps.
Over four billion 1-cent green Franklin stamps were printed, making most varieties extremely common. However, production methods, printing errors, and limited distribution created several rare varieties that command premium prices today.
<h2 class="section-header__title">
<span>The Most Valuable 1-Cent Benjamin Franklin Stamps</span>
</h2>
<div class="section-header__body">While most penny Franklin stamps are worth less than a dollar, several rare varieties stand out for their exceptional value. These stamps command high prices due to their scarcity, historical significance, and demand from serious collectors.</div>
The 1-Cent Z Grill (Scott #85A)
The rarest and most valuable Benjamin Franklin stamp is the 1-cent Z grill issued in 1867-1868. With only two known copies in existence, this stamp is considered the holy grail of American philately. One copy resides in the collection of the New York Public Library, while the other was famously traded in a $3 million deal for the unique “Inverted Jenny” plate block.
Scott #594: The 1923 Rotary Press Rarity
The 1¢ green Franklin rotary press stamp perforated 11 (Scott #594) is one of the most valuable 20th-century U.S. stamps, with an estimated value of $10,000 or more in fine condition. Only around 100 examples are known to exist.
Scott #596: The 1923-1924 Perforated 11 Variety
Similar to the #594, the Scott #596 is another rotary press variety perforated 11, with only slightly more examples known. Its current value ranges from $5,000 to $10,000 depending on condition.
Valuable 1-Cent Benjamin Franklin Stamp Varieties
Current market values for rare Benjamin Franklin 1-cent stamps
Category
Price
Notes
1-Cent Z Grill (Scott #85A)
$935,000+
Extremely rare with only 2 known examples
1923 Rotary Press (Scott #594)
$10,000-$50,000
~100 examples known, most with flaws
1923-24 Rotary Perf 11 (Scott #596)
$5,000-$10,000
Scarce with ~200 examples known
1868 F Grill (Scott #92)
$800-$3,000
Value depends heavily on condition
1908 Coil (Scott #316)
$3,500-$7,500
Early experimental coil stamp
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<h2 class="section-header__title">
<span>How to Identify Valuable Benjamin Franklin Stamps</span>
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<div class="section-header__body">Distinguishing between common and rare 1-cent Benjamin Franklin stamps requires careful examination of specific characteristics. Here’s how to identify potentially valuable varieties.</div>
Key Identification Factors
Perforations: Count the number of perforations within a 2cm space. The rare Scott #594 and #596 are perforated 11, while most common varieties are perforated 10 or 11 x 10.5.
Printing Method: Determine if the stamp was printed by flat plate or rotary press. Rotary press stamps are slightly larger in one dimension due to paper stretching during printing.
Watermarks: Hold the stamp up to light or use watermark fluid to check for watermarks. Different watermarks can significantly affect value.
Grills: Some early Franklin stamps have embossed patterns called “grills” that can be seen on the back. The Z grill and F grill varieties are particularly valuable.
Production Year: Verify the issue date by checking catalog references. Stamps from certain years are more likely to be valuable varieties.
Valuable 1-Cent Franklin Stamp Identification Checklist
Use this checklist to help identify potentially valuable 1-cent Benjamin Franklin stamps
Stamp appears slightly larger in one dimension than common issues
Perforations measure exactly 11 per 2cm on all sides
Paper has no watermark (for Scott #594 and #596)
Stamp has rich, deep green color rather than pale green
Print date is from 1923-1924 era
Visible grill pattern can be seen on the back of the stamp (for early issues)
Stamp shows evidence of being from a coil (trimmed sides or paste-up)
Benjamin Franklin Stamp Market Statistics
<h2 class="section-header__title">
<span>Common vs. Rare: Debunking Stamp Value Myths</span>
</h2>
<div class="section-header__body">Many collectors are misled by exaggerated claims about common 1-cent Franklin stamps. Here’s how to separate fact from fiction and avoid costly mistakes.</div>
The vast majority of 1-cent Benjamin Franklin stamps are extremely common and worth less than $1 each. According to the American Philatelic Society, over 95% of stamps ever printed are worth a dollar or less, with most 1-cent Franklin stamps falling into this category.
Common Misconceptions
Myth 1: All old stamps are valuable
Reality: Age alone doesn’t determine value. Many stamps from the early 1900s were printed in quantities of billions and remain common today.
Myth 2: eBay listings prove high values
Reality: Many sellers list common stamps at inflated prices, hoping to catch uninformed buyers. Check sold prices instead of asking prices.
Myth 3: Green 1-cent Franklin stamps are all rare
Reality: Most green Franklin stamps are worth only face value or slightly more. Only specific varieties with distinct printing characteristics have significant value.
As stamp expert and YouTube educator Graham Beck explains, many common Franklin stamps are falsely listed online for thousands of dollars, creating confusion about their true worth.
Recent Auction Sales: Rare 1-Cent Benjamin Franklin Stamps
Notable auction results for genuinely rare 1-cent Franklin varieties
Item
Price
Date
Auction House
Scott #594 (1923 Rotary Perf 11)
$9,950
January 2023
Mystic Stamp Company
Scott #596 (1923-24 Rotary Perf 11)
$6,750
March 2023
Robert A. Siegel Auction
Scott #316 (1908 Coil)
$3,500
May 2023
Heritage Auctions
1912 Ben Franklin (Standard Issue)
$699
June 2023
eBay
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<h2 class="section-header__title">
<span>Condition's Impact on Benjamin Franklin Stamp Values</span>
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<div class="section-header__body">The condition of a stamp dramatically affects its value, with mint, well-centered examples commanding substantial premiums over damaged or off-center copies.</div>
Condition Factors Affecting Value
Centering: Perfectly centered stamps can sell for 2-5 times more than off-center examples of the same stamp.
Gum Condition: For unused stamps, original undisturbed gum (never hinged) commands a premium over hinged or regummed examples.
Perforations: Complete, undamaged perforations are essential for maximum value.
Cancellations: For used stamps, light or interesting cancellations are preferred over heavy or messy ones.
Color: Fresh, vibrant colors are worth more than faded examples.
According to Linn’s Stamp News, a well-centered Scott #594 with original gum can sell for more than twice the value of an off-center example in otherwise similar condition.
Condition Impact on 1-Cent Franklin Stamp Values
How condition affects the value of Scott #594 (1923 Rotary Press Perf 11)
Category
Price
Notes
Superb (Perfect centering, NH gum)
$50,000+
Extremely rare in this condition
Very Fine (Well-centered)
$10,000-$15,000
Standard quality for serious collectors
Fine (Slightly off-center)
$5,000-$7,500
Most common condition
Average (Off-center or flaws)
$2,500-$4,000
Still valuable due to rarity
Poor (Heavy cancellation, tears)
$1,000-$2,000
Value comes from rarity alone
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<span>Expert Authentication: When to Get Your Stamp Verified</span>
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<div class="section-header__body">If you believe you have a valuable 1-cent Franklin stamp variety, professional authentication is essential before buying or selling.</div>
Why Authentication Matters
The difference between a common 1-cent stamp worth $0.50 and a rare variety worth thousands often comes down to subtle characteristics that only experts can verify with certainty. Without proper certification, most dealers and auction houses won’t accept claims of rare varieties.
Reputable Authentication Services
The Philatelic Foundation: America’s oldest and most respected stamp authentication service.
American Philatelic Society’s Expertizing Service (APEX): Offers authentication services with certificates recognized throughout the industry.
Professional Stamp Experts (PSE): Known for their detailed grading system and expertise in U.S. stamps.
According to the American Philatelic Society, authentication typically costs $20-$50 for most stamps, with fees increasing for items of higher value. For potentially valuable Franklin stamps like Scott #594, this investment is essential to establish authenticity and maximize value.
<span>Where to Buy and Sell Rare Benjamin Franklin Stamps</span>
</h2>
<div class="section-header__body">If you’re looking to purchase or sell valuable 1-cent Benjamin Franklin stamps, choosing the right venue is crucial for getting fair prices and avoiding counterfeit items.</div>
Best Places to Buy Rare Franklin Stamps
Specialized Auction Houses: Companies like Robert A. Siegel Auction Galleries and H.R. Harmer regularly feature rare U.S. stamps with proper authentication.
Reputable Stamp Dealers: Established dealers who are members of the American Stamp Dealers Association (ASDA) or American Philatelic Society (APS) often have rare stamps in inventory.
Major Stamp Shows: Events like WESTPEX, NAPEX, and StampShow bring together dealers with high-quality inventory and often feature on-site expertizing.
Selling Valuable Franklin Stamps
Consignment to Auction Houses: For genuinely rare and valuable varieties, specialized philatelic auction houses typically offer the best returns.
Direct Sale to Dealers: Established stamp dealers may offer immediate payment, though typically at wholesale prices.
Online Marketplaces: Platforms like eBay can work for authenticated stamps, but beware of uninformed buyers who may be skeptical of high-value claims without proper certification.
According to Linn’s Stamp News, public auctions tend to realize 10-30% higher prices than private sales for rare stamps, making them the preferred option for selling valuable Benjamin Franklin varieties.
Common Questions About Rare 1-Cent Benjamin Franklin Stamps
Are Franklin 1 cent stamps worth anything?
Most 1-cent Benjamin Franklin stamps are common and worth less than $1, but rare varieties can be worth thousands. The 1923 rotary press varieties (Scott #594 and #596) perforated 11 are scarce and worth $5,000-$50,000 depending on condition. The rarest 1-cent Franklin stamp is the Z grill from 1867-68, with only two known copies worth nearly $1 million each.
What is the rarest Benjamin Franklin stamp?
The rarest Benjamin Franklin stamp is the 1-cent Z grill (Scott #85A), issued in 1867-68. Only two copies are known to exist. One is in the collection of the New York Public Library, and the other was famously traded in a $3 million deal for the unique “Inverted Jenny” plate block. This stamp is considered one of the greatest rarities in American philately.
How do I know if my 1 cent stamp is valuable?
To determine if your 1-cent Benjamin Franklin stamp is valuable:
Check the perforations - rare varieties like Scott #594 have exactly 11 perforations per 2cm on all sides
Examine the printing method - rotary press stamps appear slightly larger in one dimension
Look for watermarks by holding the stamp up to light or using watermark fluid
Check for grills (embossed patterns) visible on the back of early issues
Verify the issue date using a stamp catalog
Assess the condition - well-centered stamps with undamaged perforations are worth more
For potentially valuable stamps, get professional authentication from services like the Philatelic Foundation or the American Philatelic Society’s expertizing service (APEX).
What makes the Scott #594 1-cent Franklin stamp so valuable?
The Scott #594 1-cent Franklin stamp is valuable due to its extreme scarcity and unique production characteristics. It was printed by rotary press but perforated 11, a combination only used briefly in 1923. Most rotary press stamps were perforated 10 or 11 x 10.5.
Only about 100 examples are known to exist, most discovered after being used on mail. The stamps weren’t recognized as rare until after most were used, making unused examples particularly valuable. Additionally, the rotary printing method made the stamps slightly larger than their flat plate counterparts, creating a distinctive variety sought by collectors.
A well-preserved Scott #594 can sell for $10,000-$50,000 depending on condition, with perfectly centered examples commanding even higher prices.
How much is a 1906 Benjamin Franklin 1 cent stamp worth?
A 1906 Benjamin Franklin 1-cent stamp (Scott #300) from the Second Bureau Issue is generally worth:
Used: $0.20-$1.00
Unused with hinged gum: $10-$25
Mint never hinged: $30-$75
Values increase significantly for well-centered examples or specialized varieties like coils. The 1908 experimental coil version (Scott #316) is much rarer and can be worth $3,500-$7,500.
The most important factors affecting value are centering, gum condition (for unused stamps), and overall freshness. For any potentially valuable stamp, condition is critical in determining its worth.
<h2 class="section-header__title">
<span>Conclusion: Navigating the World of Rare Franklin Stamps</span>
</h2>
<div class="section-header__body">Understanding the complex world of 1-cent Benjamin Franklin stamps requires knowledge, patience, and expertise. While most are common, the few rare varieties represent significant philatelic treasures.</div>
The allure of finding a rare stamp worth thousands of dollars in a common collection continues to inspire stamp collectors. While the odds of discovering a Scott #594 or Z grill in your grandmother’s album are slim, understanding what makes these stamps valuable enhances appreciation for all philatelic material.
For collectors interested in Benjamin Franklin stamps, consider these final recommendations:
Start with Education: Invest in reference catalogs and guides before spending money on potentially rare stamps.
Focus on Condition: Even common Franklin stamps in superb condition can command premium prices.
Seek Authentication: For any potentially valuable variety, professional certification is essential.
Join Collector Communities: Organizations like the American Philatelic Society offer resources and expertise to help navigate complexities.
Collect for Enjoyment: While valuable stamps are exciting, the historical significance and beauty of all Benjamin Franklin issues make them rewarding to collect regardless of monetary value.
