Stamp Investment Tip: Kuwait 1959 Scenes (Scott #140-52)

  In 1959, Kuwait, then a British protectorate, issued an attractive engraved set of thirteen stamps with scenes related to its oil industry (Scott #140-52). 51,658 sets were issued, and Scott '14 prices an unused set at $ 54.45 . It is likely that most were used as postage and discarded.


   The set appeals to both collectors of Kuwait and British Commonwealth.

A country of just under 3 million people, Kuwait is the 5th richest country in the world, with proven oil reserves of 104 billion barrels, and annual GDP growth of just under 6%. It is also developing its other major industries, which include shipping, construction, cement, water desalination, construction materials and financial services.

There are a number of scarce and undervalued issues from the Gulf States which I view as bargains. Assuming that these countries can maintain their economic growth, diversify away from their current near-total dependence on oil revenues, and avoid internal political instability or military conflicts with their neighbors, their better stamps should all do well.

Those interested in learning about investing in stamps should read the Guide to Philatelic Investing ($5), available on Kindle and easily accessible from any computer.  

Stamp Investment Tip: Kuwait 1948 Silver Wedding (Scott #82-83)

Kuwait was a British Protectorate until it attained independence in 1961. In 1948, the British issued a surcharged set of two stamps for Kuwait celebrating the Silver Wedding Anniversary of King George VI and Queen Elizabeth (later the Queen Mother- Scott #82-83). 31,703 sets were issued, and Scott '11 prices the unused set at $45.50 . Issues of Kuwait, especially those of the British period, are sought after both in Kuwait and among British Commonwealth collectors, and British Royal Family issues have additional topical appeal.

A country of just under 3 million people, Kuwait is the 5th richest country in the world, with proven oil reserves of 104 billion barrels, and annual GDP growth of just under 6%. It is also developing its other major industries, which include shipping, construction, cement, water desalination, construction materials and financial services.

There are a number of scarce and undervalued issues from the Gulf States which I view as bargains. Assuming that these countries can maintain their economic growth, diversify away from their current near-total dependence on oil revenues, and avoid internal political instability or military conflicts with their neighbors, their better stamps should all do well.

Those interested in joining a community of stamp collectors, dealers, and investors are welcome to join the Facebook "Stampselectors" group, which has grown to over 1,500 members (as of 11/24/10). Members are free to post ads related to stamp collecting, and topics discussed include stamp investment and practical aspects of collecting and trading stamps.

Stamp Investment Tip: Kuwait 1948-49 Surcharge Issue (Scott #72-81A)

Kuwait was a British Protectorate until it attained independence in 1961. In 1948-49, the British issued a surcharged set of eleven stamps for Kuwait (Scott #72-81A). 19,351 sets were issued, and Scott '10 prices the unused set at $ 92.50. Issues of Kuwait, especially those of the British period, are sought after both in Kuwait and among British Commonwealth collectors.

A country of just under 3 million people, Kuwait is the 5th richest country in the world, with proven oil reserves of 104 billion barrels, and annual GDP growth of just under 6%. It is also developing its other major industries, which include shipping, construction, cement, water desalination, construction materials and financial services.

There are a number of scarce and undervalued issues from the Gulf States which I view as bargains. Assuming that these countries can maintain their economic growth, diversify away from their current near-total dependence on oil revenues, and avoid internal political instability or military conflicts with their neighbors, their better stamps should all do well.