Stamp Investment Tip: Cuba 1890-97 Alfonso XIII (Scott #132-55)

From 1890-97, the Spanish issued a long set of twenty four stamps for Cuba, picturing the Infant King Alfonso XIII (Scott #132-55). Only 10,000 were issued, and Scott '11 prices the unused set at $294.45 and the used set at $95.20. This is one of many scarce issues of Cuba which should be targeted for investment. It is absurdly undervalued, because it is unlikely that more than one or two thousand sets survive in any condition, and because it has multiple market appeal to collectors of Spanish Colonies, Cuba, and Latin America in general.

I believe it inevitable that Cuba will join the fold of more-or-less free nations, and that tourism and trade will explode as a result. Currently, the average wage of each of the 11 1/2 million people living in this "socialist utopia" is under $20 per month, and GDP per capita is 107th in the world. Annual GDP growth has been high, averaging 6.4% over the last 5 years, but given the levels of corruption and favoritism shown to high ranking Communist Party members, it's an open question whether much of that new wealth has been filtering downward. Eventually, something will have to give. The current market for Cuban stamps, especially of the Pre-Castro Period, is bolstered by interest of stamp collectors within Cuban-American community, currently about 1.6 million strong, and far wealthier than their compatriots on the island. Interest in Cuban stamps is likely to increase, especially given the likely prospect of a replacement of the stale, "gerontocratic" regime within a decade or so.

I have begun a new blog, " The Stamp Specialist ", featuring my buy lists for stamps which I wish to purchase, including some Cuban stamps. Periodically viewing dealers' buy lists is an excellent way to remained informed about the state of the stamp market.

Those interested in becoming part of an international community of stamp collectors, dealers, and investors are welcome to join the "Stampselectors" group at Facebook. The group hosts lively discussions concerning stamp investment and practical aspects of collecting, and is also an excellent venue for those who wish to buy, sell, or trade stamps.