Friday 23 October 2015

Watermarks: A Simple Technique To Determine A Forged or Genuine Stamp

 
WATERMARKS

Finding and confirming watermarks on stamps are often challenge even most experienced stamp collectors. Watermarks detection are an important skill for most casual of philatelists.

Watermarks are made during the paper manufacturing process by intentionally impressing the thinner paper and image could be seen by holding the paper up to a light. Nowadays, the world have used watermarked paper as security measure against counterfeiting.

Generally, a classic stamp without watermarks is most difficulty to recognize authenticity. Furthermore, a overprinted surcharges were applied and some cases a genuine stamp with watermarks but featuring a fake overprinted.

As a beginner collector, finding correct information and references are very crucial prior to purchase. Please take note, NOT all expensive stamps are genuine especially overprinted types. Many overprinted stamps had been substitute with fake handstamp. Its look nice but in reality a forged stamp. A forged stamp is always flaw in certain elements in the drawing. A Professional Philatelist will be able to prescribe the flaw elements. A Professional Philatelist is also able to issue Certificate of Authenticity to confirm a genuine stamp. However, a professional fees for the expertizing shall be borne.

Herewith, two samples comparison of Classic Stamps for Italian stamps issued in 1851, denomination 1 Crazia. One is a forgery stamp and one is a genuine stamp.



A Flaw Forgery Stamp

  
Front

Reverse

Scott #4, Carmine, MH, Unwatermarks,

4 Margins, Flaw area is Shorter Lion Fingers & Coat of Arms, CV $12,000
 



A Genuine Stamp Features

  
Front


Reverse

Scott #4a, Brown Carmine, VFU,

Watermarks, 4 Margins,
Longer Lion Fingers & 
Coat of Arms No Flaw
C.V $175