Stamp Investment Tip: Hong Kong 1862 Victoria (Scott #1-7)

In 1862, Hong Kong issued its first postage stamps (Scott #1-7). The two high values are particularly scarce, but also pricey. The 48c Rose (Scott #6) had a printing of 31,260 and the 96c Gray (Scott #7) - only 21,600, and Scott '10 prices them unused at $ 3,000.- and $ 4,000.-, and used at $ 400.- and $ 525.- , respectively.


I favor all of the better stamps of Hong Kong, as they appeal to collectors of China, Hong Kong, and British Commonwealth - three growing markets. While these two stamps may seem expensive, it is likely that only a few thousand remain in any condition. If buying them used, ascertain that they have postal, and not revenue, cancels, and obtain a certificate if necessary.


Centering of this issue tends to be poor, so expect to pay a premium for examples with four margins.

Stamp Investment Tips: Hong Kong 1948 Silver Wedding (Scott #178-79)

In 1948, Hong Kong issued a set of two stamps celebrating the Silver Wedding Anniversary of King George VI and Queen Elizabeth (Scott #178-79). 54,252 sets were issued and Scott '10 prices the unused set at $ 300.-.

The stamps of Hong Kong are in demand in Hong Kong, China and among British Commonwealth collectors. This set is of particular interest because it is part of the popular Silver Wedding Omnibus set, comprising stamps issued by the various British Commonwealth countries to commemorate the event.

Hong Kong is now a special administrative district of P.R. China, but it has a high degree of autonomy except in the areas of foreign affairs and defence. With about 7 million people, this Asian Tiger remains a global metropolis and international finance center. The Hong Kong economy experienced negative annual GDP growth in 2009 as a result of the global financial crisis, but should recover over the next year or two and return to its usual 5%-7%.

As a modern issue, the set is readily available in VF NH condition, and sometimes is even offered in blocks or multiples. I recommend targeting it for accumulation.

Stamp Investment Tip: Hong Kong 1891 Jubilee Overprint Issue (Scott #66)

In 1891, Hong Kong issued its first commemorative stamp (Scott #66), overprinting 50,000 2c Rose stamps to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the colony. Scott '10 prices the unused stamp at $ 575.00 and the used stamp at $140.00.

I recommend this stamp in VF NH, LH and Used conditions. The stamps of Hong Kong are in demand in Hong Kong, China and among British Commonwealth collectors.

The former colony is now a special administrative district of P.R. China, but it has a high degree of autonomy except in the areas of foreign affairs and defence. With about 7 million people, this Asian Tiger remains a global metropolis and international finance center. The Hong Kong economy experienced negative annual GDP growth in 2009 as a result of the global financial crisis, but should recover over the next year or two and return to its usual 5%-7%.


Centering for most stamps of Hong Kong from the Victoria to George V eras tends to be mediocre, so try to select examples with four clear margins when purchasing. Also, a Yang Catalogue is useful when purchasing stamps of Hong Kong, as it lists and values varieties and rare cancellations which are not noted in Scott.