Compiling accurate stamp valuations for probate is a specialist process that requires extensive research, market knowledge, and in-depth philatelic expertise.
When valuing a deceased estate, HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) requires that stamp collections are included as part of the overall chattels valuation for Inheritance Tax purposes. Even collections that appear modest can contain items of significant value, making professional assessment essential.
At Avery Associates, our team combines over 80 years of philatelic experience with more than 35 years of probate valuation expertise. This ensures that every valuation we provide is accurate, compliant, and suitable for submission to HMRC.
Accurate Stamp Valuation for Probate
Our stamp valuation service is included at no additional cost within our full house contents and personal possessions probate valuation.
- Current market value
- Auction and retail comparisons
- Condition and preservation
- Rarity and demand
- Completeness of albums or sets
Each collection is carefully reviewed to identify items of importance and ensure a fair and realistic valuation.
Learn more about our Probate Valuation Services
See how we handle House Contents Valuations
Why Stamp Collections Matter in Probate
Stamp collections are often overlooked but can contribute significantly to an estate’s total value.
HMRC requires valuations to reflect a realistic open market selling price, not catalogue estimates or insurance values. This makes expert knowledge critical when assessing:
- Older or inherited collections
- Specialist or thematic collections
- Albums compiled over many years
- Loose or unsorted stamp accumulations
Failing to properly value a collection could lead to inaccuracies in probate reporting.
Types of Stamps We Commonly Value
British & Commonwealth Stamps
- Victorian and early issues
- Pre-1960 Commonwealth material
- Rare or limited print runs
Specialist & Collectable Stamps
- First editions and early printings
- Error stamps (misprints, inverted designs)
- Mint stamps with original gum
- Rare postmarks and cancellations
Collections & Formats
- Complete albums and sets
- Loose stamps and mixed collections
- Presentation packs and proof sets
- Covers and postal history
Even collections that appear low value may contain individual items of importance.
Important Facts About Stamp Valuation
- Stamp collections must be included in probate valuations where applicable
- Value is based on market reality, not catalogue listings
- Condition plays a major role in determining value
- Individual stamps can be more valuable than entire albums
- Modern stamps are often low value, but exceptions do exist
- Loose stamps should always be carefully reviewed
Our Stamp Valuation Process
Step 1 – Initial Assessment
We review albums, boxed collections, and loose material.
Step 2 – Identification
Potentially valuable items are identified and separated.
Step 3 – Research
We compare against auction results and specialist market data.
Step 4 – Valuation
Values are assigned in line with HMRC requirements.
Step 5 – Reporting
The collection is included within the full probate valuation report.
Frequently Asked Questions
There are just a few kids’ stamp albums. Is it worth getting them valued?
Yes, sometimes the low-value bundles of mail-order stamps we collected as children have become quite valuable, so it is always wise to have them checked.
We have a very large collection of stamps in albums. Can you value them all?
Yes. No matter how large the collection, our team will assess it accurately. Larger collections may take more time but will be fully reviewed.
There are thousands of loose stamps, how do you value them?
Our team carefully sifts through loose material to identify stamps of value and separate them to ensure maximum accuracy.
Can you sell the stamp collection on our behalf?
Yes, we can arrange for suitable collections to be entered into specialist stamp auctions to achieve the best possible price.
Do all old stamps have value?
No. Age alone does not determine value. Rarity, condition, and demand are key factors.
What makes a stamp valuable?
Factors include rarity, condition, printing errors, historical significance, and collector demand.
Should stamps be removed from albums before valuation?
No. Collections should remain intact, as their organisation can add context and value.
Contact Avery Associates
If you require a professional stamp valuation for probate or would like a free consultation, please contact us using the telephone numbers provided above or visit our Contact Page.
