Fulfilling That Interest in Israel Issues

Question: I want to specialize in Israel stamps. Is there a stamp club that caters to this interest?--P.K.

Answer: The Society of Israel Philatelists is the largest Holy Land philatelic society in the world, with members in most U.S. states and many foreign countries. They publish a professional journal six times a year, and members are allowed one free ad in it per year. The journal has useful articles on the stamps of Israel, as well as display and classified advertising. Other benefits include an expertizing authentication service and a circulating stamp library. Dues are $12 per year, $6 for applicants under age 18. For more information, send a self-addressed, stamped envelope to Albert Friedberg, Society of Israel Philatelists, 31715 Vine St., Willowick, Ohio 44094.

Q: During World War II, for some unknown reason, I set aside about 250 copies of the 3-cent Lincoln stamps, Scott No. 555. I noticed these stamps have increased in value in the latest Scott catalogue. What is their true worth and who would buy them?--J.V.H.

A: No. 555 currently catalogues at $21 per copy in mint condition. Actual retail price is about half that for a nicely centered specimen. Wholesale buy price might be $5 each. Many dealers would be interested in buying these stamps. Be sure you have 555 and not a cheaper, later variety (such as No. 635, worth 50 cents).

Q: Could you tell me how I can find out the value of United Nations unused sheets of stamps? I think they were all issued in the 1950s. I went to the library and looked at Scott’s but didn’t see any listing for full sheets, only for single stamps.--L.P.L.

A: U.N. sheets (panes) are roughly worth the value of a single stamp multiplied by the number of stamps in the sheet. In other words, no special premium value is given for these stamps in sheet form. Some U.N. stamps have premium value as plate-inscription blocks, and these sheets would therefore be worth more than a prorated multiple of the single stamp.

Q: What is the best kind of stamp tongs for a beginner?--T.F.

A: Cheap kinds, about $3 a pair, available from most stamp shops. Get nickel-plated tongs with wide tips. And don’t use tweezers from your medicine cabinet to hold stamps. Tongs made especially for stamp collectors won’t damage stamps.

Q: I have a post card and envelope with a Zeppelin stamp postmarked Friederishafen, Oct. 10, 1928, for the maiden voyage of the Zeppelin airship. Please tell me its value.--H.M.A.

A: About $20 to $50 for an average Zeppelin item like you describe. Condition of both stamp and cover are all-important in evaluating Zeppelin material.

Stamp Calendar

Saturday and Sunday--Cover Expo ’86 is scheduled at the Holiday Inn, 7000 Beach Blvd. at California 91, Buena Park. Stamp and cover dealers will be present to buy and sell. U.S. Postal Service station with special cancel. General admission $1, free to seniors over 60 and to children under 12. Free parking. Hours: Saturday 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Stamp News

First day of sale is Feb. 27 (in Washington, D.C. 20066) for the 22-cent Hugo Black definitive in the Great Americans series.

Barry Krause, a member of several national stamp-collecting organizations, cannot answer mail personally but will respond to philatelic questions of general interest in this column. Do not telephone. Write to Your Stamps, You section, The Times, Times Mirror Square, Los Angeles 90053.