In 1910, Chile celebrated the centenary of its independence from Spain by issuing a set of fifteen stamps (Scott #83-97). The printing quantity for this set is not known, but I estimate than no more than 20,000 were issued. Scott '11 prices the set at $124.40 for unused). The set has historically significance, as it depicts important events and military leaders from Chile's War of Independence.Many of those who collect Chile also collect stamps of South America or all of Latin America, so demand tends to be more generalized than usual. This is not to say that there isn't demand originating from collectors focusing on the individual country as well, but rather that the tendency to collect the whole region is an important factor to consider.
A nation of 17 million, Chile is considered the most "European" Latin American nation, and the proportion of stamp collectors within the population is moving towards European levels. Major sectors include agriculture, fishing, forestry, mining, finance, and tourism. Although economic inequities common to most Latin American nations persist, the government favors gradual reform, and has a record of implementing sound economic policies. Annual GDP growth has averaged 3.2% over the last 5 years.
I have begun a new blog, "The Stamp Specialist", which will feature my buy prices for stamps which I am interested in purchasing. I've just posted a buy list for Chile, including the set recommended in this article. Viewing dealers' buy lists every now and then is an excellent way to keep current on the vagaries of the stamp market.
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