How to Identify Colors on Postage Stamps

Identifying the colors on postage stamps can be a surprisingly complex task. Over the years, stamps have been printed with various inks and techniques, creating color variations that collectors prize. Here, we’ll guide you through understanding stamp colors and introduce a few tips to help you identify them accurately.

Why Stamp Color Matters

Color variations in stamps can result from a variety of factors, including production differences, paper type, and environmental exposure. In some cases, minor differences in shade can drastically impact a stamp’s value. Knowing how to distinguish between, say, “carmine” and “rose” might help you uncover an underappreciated gem in your collection.

Tools for Color Identification

Having the right tools makes identifying colors easier and more accurate. Here are some collector favorites:

1. Color Guides: Published guides like the Wonder Color Guide offer standardized color charts for comparison. These guides are invaluable for differentiating subtle variations.
2. Magnifying Glass: Fine color differences are often more apparent under magnification, especially when assessing ink layers or paper texture.
3. White LED Light: Lighting affects color perception. A white LED light can help you see colors accurately, whereas incandescent lights can cast yellowish tints and distort shades.
4. Reference Books: Many stamps, particularly classic ones, have cataloged color variations and descriptions that can guide you in identifying colors unique to a specific series or issue.

Recognizing Common Color Variations

Here are a few common color terms you’ll encounter, especially on older stamps. Each has distinct visual characteristics:

• Carmine: A deep red with hints of blue, carmine can range from a rich, intense hue to lighter, faded versions.
• Rose: A lighter, pinkish-red, which tends to look softer than carmine.
• Violet and Purple: Violet is a blue-based purple, while purple leans slightly more toward red. Identifying these two can be challenging without a reference guide.
• Ultramarine and Blue: Ultramarine has a distinct deep blue tone with a touch of purple, while standard blue lacks this purple undertone.
• Olive and Green: Olive is a green with brown or yellow tones, whereas green tends to be more vibrant and lacks any brown hues.

Identifying Color Changes

Some stamps undergo color changes over time due to sunlight, humidity, or age. Here’s how to spot altered colors:

• Sun Fading: Faded colors often look less vibrant and may appear washed out. Red tones are particularly prone to sun fading.
• Chemical Reactions: Exposure to chemicals can alter stamp colors. For example, exposure to sulfur compounds can darken certain inks.
• Oxidation: Prolonged exposure to air can cause some inks to oxidize, changing colors subtly. Blues and greens are particularly prone to oxidation.

Practice Makes Perfect

Identifying colors is an art that takes practice. A few suggestions for improving your skills:

• Compare Side-by-Side: Lay similar stamps next to each other under the same light. Differences in color are easier to spot when stamps are directly compared.
• Refer to Specialized Catalogs: Some stamp catalogs list color variations for specific issues, especially for classic US and British stamps.
• Check with Experts: Consult a specialist or a well-established stamp dealer for tricky cases. Many stamps have been authenticated and color-verified over the years, and experts are often willing to share their knowledge.

A Note on Ink Variations

Sometimes, color differences are due to different ink batches or printing runs rather than intentional design choices. These variations are subtle but can sometimes indicate a rare or desirable stamp. For example, many early 20th-century stamps issued in “olive green” may also exist in “yellow-green” due to variations in ink production.

Enjoy the Discovery

Color identification is one of the most rewarding aspects of philately. Every color variation tells part of the story of how the stamp was created, used, and preserved. As you delve into identifying colors, you’ll discover new dimensions of beauty and history in your collection. Enjoy the journey, and remember—each shade can hold a surprise!