Newsletter Archive
12-11-2021 NobleSpirit Newsletter: Prices Realized from 1st Three Catalogue Experience Auction Sales
The NobleSpirit catalogue experience unique to eBay.
First three catalogue auction results
Every day brings a new day. So, while it can be a thrill to browse NobleSpirit listings daily to discover new treasures as they present themselves spontaneously, there is also a distinct necessity among the very same spectrum of collector or investor from novice to specialist to participate in an organized focused environment. That is what a catalogue experience brings to the table and so much more.
While the excitement of a serendipitous adventure can be an exhilarating moment in time beyond description, the many benefits that lead time bring in terms of exposure, research and planning are just as valuable
To demonstrate this point all 3 catalogue auctions #1 FDC, #2 British and #3 China demonstrated consistent high proportional sale prices to catalogue value. #1 FDC and #2 British majority of realizations exceeded 50-70%.China systematically realized over 60% - and in many cases up to 200% of catalogue value!
Our next catalogue auction sale (exclusive to eBay) will be in January. A specialized United States mint and used collection, featuring some great seldom seen rarities.
The sale will be available for viewing and bidding as usual on our Meridian technology platform and available for access to eBay on Stamp Auction Network
Prices Realized
China PRC Catalogue Auction #3
Prices Realized
Click on: Stamp Market Index - Home
Search: "noblespirit (zs)"
Toggle Price Range to "over $10,000"
Sort "sale price" by highest price on the up and down arrows
Dr. Sarath Reddy Catalogue Auction #2
Prices Realized
Click on: Stamp Market Index - Home
Search: "noblespirit (sr)"
Toggle Price Range to "over $10,000"
Sort "sale price" by highest price on the up and down arrows
Denver Collection Important First Day Covers Catalogue Auction #1
Prices Realized
Click on: Stamp Market Index - Home
Search: "noblespirit (zs)"
Toggle Price Range to "over $10,000"
Sort "sale price" by highest price on the up and down arrows
Hon. John H Sununu, former White House Chief of Staff, and former Governor of New Hampshire invites Michael Cortese Exec. VP, managing partner of NobleSpirit and Charles Epting, CEO of HR Harmer into his home to discuss the passion for stamp collecting that has embraced the heart of 4 generations of his family. 'My grandfather had a unique style of dealing in artifacts, any country he went to he would first learn the language. So, the family legend is that he spoke 17 languages'.
They are joined by his son, Hon. John E Sununu former US NH Senator and fmr member of The House of Representatives; brother of the current Governor of New Hampshire, the Hon Gov. Chris Sununu. "These stampless New Hampshire covers seem to have mysteriously appeared after my father [Hon JH. Sununu] discovered eBay." From there he takes Michael and Charles through a fascinating journey through a world class baseball card collection of thousands of early graded cards, culminating with an incredible personal story of a great baseball card rarity of which only 100 exist.
The excitement in the room is as palatable as the thrill of the show and tell, an exhilarating prelude to the fascinating unique stories they have to tell.
It is the interview of a lifetime, offering precious insight that few experience. Rarely does one have the opportunity to share intimately in the life experience and deep passions that shape the view of world leaders.
12-6-2021 NobleSpirit Newsletter: Conversations with Philatelists (CwP) Interviews a Legendary Political Family; Mint China PRC Estate Catalogue Auction Sale Ends Today
Hon. John H Sununu, former White House Chief of Staff, and former Governor of New Hampshire invites Michael Cortese Exec. VP, managing partner of NobleSpirit and Charles Epting, CEO of HR Harmer into his home to discuss the passion for stamp collecting that has embraced the heart of 4 generations of his family. 'My grandfather had a unique style of dealing in artifacts, any country he went to he would first learn the language. So, the family legend is that he spoke 17 languages'.
They are joined by his son, Hon. John E Sununu former US NH Senator and fmr member of The House of Representatives; brother of the current Governor of New Hampshire, the Hon Gov. Chris Sununu. "These stampless New Hampshire covers seem to have mysteriously appeared after my father [Hon JH. Sununu] discovered eBay." From there he takes Michael and Charles through a fascinating journey through a world class baseball card collection of thousands of early graded cards, culminating with an incredible personal story of a great baseball card rarity of which only 100 exist.
The excitement in the room is as palatable as the thrill of the show and tell, an exhilarating prelude to the fascinating unique stories they have to tell.
It is the interview of a lifetime, offering precious insight that few experience. Rarely does one have the opportunity to share intimately in the life experience and deep passions that shape the view of world leaders.
Mint China PRC Estate Catalogue Auction Sale Ends Today
Auction listings end today December 6th & 7th, 2021
You can access the live eBay listings directly from the catalogue.
Auction listings end December 6th & 7th, 2021
Exclusive to eBay or first of its kind auction catalogue experience welcomes the 3rd sale currently live. Our first 2 sales were very well received with some outstanding prices realized.
We plan at least one auction catalogue experience sale every month. Next month look for a massive specialized US collection including many world class rarities.
11-28-2021 NobleSpirit Newsletter: Mint China PRC Estate 3rd eBay Exclusive Catalogue Sale – Now Live!
You can access the live eBay listings directly from the catalogue.
Auction listings end December 6th & 7th, 2021
Exclusive to eBay or first of its kind auction catalogue experience welcomes the 3rd sale currently live. Our first 2 sales were very well received with some outstanding prices realized.
We plan at least one auction catalogue experience sale every month. Next month look for a massive specialized US collection including many world class rarities.
Full catalogue will also soon be available on:
Want to bid in the auction, but don't have an eBay account? Don't worry! This easy guide walks you through how to create an eBay account so you can participate in the sale:
Featured Items From the China PRC Auction Sale:
Ultra RARE China PRC 628 Mint NH = $18,500 Mei Lan-fang Souvenir
Auction ends: Monday, Dec. 6th at 7:31pm EST
Superb Gem China PRC 798a Mint NH Souvenir Sheet = $4,250 CV
Auction ends: Tuesday, Dec. 7th at 6:32pm EST
Superb Gem China PRC 967-980 Mint NH = $4,008 CV Mao Poems
Auction ends: Tuesday, Dec. 7th at 7:38pm EST
Choice XF China PRC 943a Mint NH Strip of 5 = $1,600 CV Mao
Auction ends: Tuesday, Dec. 7th at 7:47pm EST
Rare China PRC 620-627 Mint LH/NH = $2,225 CV Mei Lan-fang
Auction ends: Monday, Dec. 6th at 7:32pm EST
Superb China PRC 996a Mint NH = $7,000 CV Cultural Revolution
Auction ends: Tuesday, Dec. 7th at 7:36pm EST
Superb Gem China PRC 948a Mint NH Strip of 5 = $2,600 CV Mao
Auction ends: Tuesday, Dec. 7th at 7:45pm EST
Exciting PRC CHINA No. 1586 MNH "Monkey, New Year" =$2,150 CV!!
Auction ends: Tuesday, Dec. 7th at 6:24pm EST
10-22-2021 NobleSpirit Newsletter: Dr. Sarath Reddy Collection Prices Realized; Next China PRC Catalogue Auction Announced
Last week we closed out our very first name sale, The Dr. Sarath Reddy Collection of British and World, using our brand new online auction catalogue experience. Thank you to all our loyal and enthusiastic customers who participated in making this a hugely successful first auction!
We are pleased to report that the sale's consignor, Dr. Sarath Reddy, responded with a glowing testimonial of the experience:
"When it came time to sell my stamp collection I spoke with several auction houses but ultimately chose NobleSpirit on account of their experience conducting internet auctions over eBay, extensive clientele, and innovative auction platform.
From the initial meeting to the final auction results, I was extremely pleased with The NobleSpirit team. Joe and Michael Cortese are courteous and professional. Their love for the hobby was clearly evident in our discussions. They kept me informed as my collection was evaluated by their team of experts and updated me as they advertised and promoted my collection in their new auction format. The online auction catalogue which was released several weeks prior to the Ebay auction featured detailed descriptions and beautiful high resolution photographs of the stamps and covers.
I was extremely pleased with the final auction results and enjoyed tracking the auctions through their proprietary Meridian app. I would enthusiastically recommend NobleSpirit to anyone planning to selling their fine collectibles."
Sincerely,
Dr. Sarath Reddy
Featured Auction Results:
Cape Of Good Hope No 6a SUPERB XF Blk 4 MvLH Certificate $1,800
Sale Price: $1,175
Superb Gem XF Rhodesia Geo + Mary 118 MNH OG $1,650
Sale Price: $1,383
Cape of Good Hope PO fresh #12-15 PAIRS Superb VF/XF MvLH OG $3,600
Sale Price: $2,550
Cape Of Good Hope No 6a Pair Superb XF MvLH OG Certificate $950
Sale Price: $799
Cape Of Good Hope No 14 SUPERB XF Blk 8 MvLH $3,600
Sale Price: $2,025
Great Britain Spectacular Sc 209 Margin Block 4 MNH $4,400 CV
Sale Price: $2,705
Upcoming Auctions:
Consignments are still being accepted for this China PRC sale! Deadline: November 5th, 2021
At the end of November, we will be holding our next catalogue sale of a near complete MINT NH China PRC Collection with extras and collections.
Key items to be found in the sale include:
628 Mei Lan-Fang $18,500 CV
967-980 Mao Poems $4,000 CV
943a & 948a Thoughts of Mao $4,200 CV
996a Cultural Revolution Strip $7,000 CV
Consignments are still being accepted for this China PRC sale! Deadline: November 5th, 2021
10-7-2021 NobleSpirit Newsletter: The Dr. Sarath Reddy Collection of British and World – Now Live!
Access the live eBay listings directly from the catalogue!
List Dates - Oct 4th - Oct 7th
(These are the dates the lots list on eBay)
Sale Dates Oct 14th - Oct 17th
(These are the dates the lots end on eBay)
Full catalogue also available on:
For the first time ever, NobleSpirit enters the auction marketplace with our first name sale, The Dr. Sarath Reddy Collection of British and World.
Please view the collection in its entirety, as it was carefully assembled over the past few decades with many premium and rare items necessary to any serious collector of British and World philately.
Collection includes high value British multiples, scarce and key issues in mint condition from around the world, and interesting postal usages on covers.
Want to bid in the auction, but don't have an eBay account? Don't worry! This easy guide walks you through how to create an eBay account so you can participate in the sale:
Featured Items From the Sale:
Cape of Good Hope No.1a (SG 5) Brick Red MOG LH VF Pair $10,000
Auction ends: Friday, October 15th at 6:20pm EST
PO Fresh Great Britain Sc 5, SG 54, MLH £24,000 CV Brandon Cert
Auction ends: Thursday, October 14th at 6:49pm EST
Excellent Great Britain Sc 2 SG 4 Mint VLH = £45,000 PEC Cert
Auction ends: Thursday, October 14th at 6:50pm EST
Great Britain Sc 93, SG 137, £5 Orange Telegraph CxL $5,000 CV
Auction ends: Thursday, October 14th at 6:39pm EST
Falkland Islands 65-76 MLH-MNH Choice VF/XF $4,800
Auction ends: Saturday, October 16th at 6:12pm EST
Great Britain Spectacular Sc 209 Margin Block 4 MNH $4,400 CV
Auction ends: Thursday, October 14th at 6:38pm EST
France 37 5F MvLH OG Choice XF 98 Certificate $6,000
Auction ends: Thursday, October 14th, 11:05pm EST
Fresh Great Britain Sc 6 SG 57 Mint $11,500 Brandon Cert
Auction ends: Thursday, October 14th at 6:48pm EST
Cape Of Good Hope No 14 SUPERB XF Blk 8 MvLH $3,600
Auction ends: Friday, October 15th at 6:38pm EST
Other Featured Items Ending Today & Tomorrow:
HUGE CV US Mint & Used Specialized w BoB & Bank Notes
Auction ends: Friday, October 8th at 7:15pm EST
Excellent US 293 Mint OG H = $1,900 CV PSE Cert $2 Trans-Miss
Auction ends: Friday, October 8th at 6:41pm EST
Superb Hawaii 11S B Mint NH Pair = $550 CV "Specimen"
Auction ends: TODAY, October 7th at 6:52pm EST
Choice US 245 XFU = $1,175 CV $5 Columbian
Auction ends: Friday, October 8th at 6:38pm EST
Popular US 2 AVG U = $950 CV 3 Margins Cork Cancel
Auction ends: TODAY, October 7th at 6:39pm EST
Excellent US 291 Mint NH = $1,800 CV 50c Trans-Miss
Auction ends: TODAY, October 7th at 7:02pm EST
Conversations with Philatelists Ep. 69: Auction Preview
How To Participate in the Auctions:
These auction events will be held exclusively on eBay, so you MUST have an eBay user account to bid and participate in the auctions.
All auctions run for 10 days.
If you would like to learn more about the upcoming auctions and how to make the most of the online catalogues, watch the latest episode of CwP! Michael offers a thorough preview of how to navigate the catalogue, the material that is coming up for sale, and how the auctions are going to work.
9-7-2021 NobleSpirit Newsletter: Upcoming Auction Preview
The Denver Collection
of Important First Day Covers
List Dates: Sep 10th - Sep 14th
(These are the dates the lots list on eBay)
Sale Dates: Sep 20th - Sep 24th
(These are the dates the lots end on eBay)
Over 500 lots of individual high value and early US First Day Covers, both cacheted and uncacheted.
Many early scarce town cancels with APS certificates, Zeppelins, Kans/Nebr Sets & Singles, C1 through C6 First Flights, Crosby, Fluegal, Hand Painted, and many Scott Number FDC Collections.
How To Participate in the Auctions:
These auction events will be held exclusively on eBay, so you MUST have an eBay user account to bid and participate in the auctions.
All auctions run for 10 days.
If you would like to learn more about the upcoming auctions and how to make the most of the online catalogues, watch the latest episode of CwP! Michael offers a thorough preview of how to navigate the catalogue, the material that is coming up for sale, and how the auctions are going to work.
The Dr. Sarath Reddy Collection of British and World
List Dates: Oct 4th - Oct 7th
(These are the dates the lots list on eBay)
Sale Dates: Oct 14th - Oct 17th
(These are the dates the lots end on eBay)
The Dr. Sarath Reddy Collection of British and World is comprised of items collected over decades from auction houses and dealers all over the world.
Collection includes high value British multiples, scarce and key issues in mint condition from around the world, and interesting postal usages on covers.
900 Carton Estate Crosses the Country 3,000 Miles to NobleSpirit
We're excited to announce the coming arrival of a 900 carton consignment from a dealer estate out in Washington State!
The collection features early US classics, many mint Ducks, Scott Specialized albums, better Mint sets and singles, and pre-catalogued material straight from the store floor!
Please look for consignment tag (WS) when searching for goods from this collection.
8-13-2021 NobleSpirit Newsletter: NobleSpirit Revolutionizes eBay’s Auction Platform with New Catalogue Experience
August 13th, 2021
Announcing a first of its kind traditional auction catalogue experience for eBay marketplace.
https://www.noblespirit.com/catalogue
NobleSpirit, an innovation leading company in collectibles, announced the release of new technological features that are likely to significantly transform the auction experience on eBay. After years of development, this previously un-imagined functionality is now finally available to the world of auctions on eBay.
A definitive game changing functionality in the trillion dollar global auction economy. Merchants of every description from sophisticated professional companies to individual sellers will now be able to build pre-scheduled auction catalogues on eBay for the first time ever.
For Sellers: The new NobleSpirit Catalogue incorporates uniquely constructed architecture that presents an unparalleled opportunity for merchants to access lifetime buyers.
The catalogue provides:
a) with traditional 6 week lead times
b) highly specialized market sectors
c) full listing, marketing, management capability for the lifecycle of each transaction
“When first we conceptualized and then started to develop this exciting new technological selling feature, we knew we had to share it with the auction industry," said Joe Cortese, NobleSpirit President “So we elected to make it available to the world at UseMeridian.com because it was clear that this is a direct on-ramp for every market sector that deploys traditional catalogue auction models. Merchants can now sell on the eBay global marketplace like never before as they have in their established business for decades. "
"The eBay marketplace is a 22 year trusted environment in the making." said Michael Cortese, Vice President of NobleSpirit. "We anticipate it is ripe for widespread adoption by established world class auctioneers, eager to expand their reach and grow their footprint doing what they have been doing for many years. In every market sector where an auction model exists buyers and sellers on eBay will benefit in new and exciting ways."
For Buyers: High gross merchandise value (HGMV) and ultra specialized asset class collectibles across eBay will be the first to benefit from:
a) merchants who can now plan, announce and publish catalogue sale events in advance,
b) buyers who can now spend 6 week lead times discovering, planning, researching and budgeting their buying decisions in advance
Upcoming Sales:
1st: The Denver Collection of Superlative First Day Covers (September 2021)
2nd: The Dr. Sarath Reddy Collection of British and World Stamps (October 4th-7th, 2021)
* followed by regularly scheduled specialized and high value catalogue sales every month
Lots will be added daily up until day of launch on eBay.
Visit https://www.noblespirit.com/catalogue for more information
Over 500 lots of individual high value and early US First Day Covers, both cacheted and uncacheted.
Many early scarce town cancels with APS certificates, Zeppelins, Kans/Nebr Sets & Singles, C1 through C6 First Flights, Crosby, Fluegal, Hand Painted, and many Scott Number FDC Collections.
The Dr. Sarath Reddy Collection of British and World is comprised of items collected over decades from auction houses and dealers all over the world.
Collection includes high value British multiples, scarce and key issues in mint condition from around the world, and interesting postal usages on covers.
7-21-2021 NobleSpirit Newsletter: Massive Silver Bullion Treasure Discovered; Curated Catalogue Auction Sales
July 21st, 2021
Massive Silver Bullion Treasure Discovered
This just in: A massive silver coin and bullion estate hoard comprising approximately 5,000 plus coins ranging in weight from 1oz to 10 ozs each, from every country on the planet will be listed daily. Raw and graded coins, all of which are Superb Gem Proof or BU with countless privy marks, special issues including signed, burnished, reverse proof and every variety and type one could hope for.
FROM THE COLLECTION:
NobleSpirit - AMERICA THE BEAUTIFUL 56 coin 5oz COMPLETE SET In Wooden Case
BREAKING NEWS:
*Curated Catalogue Auction Sales Coming to NobleSpirit
In our next week's newsletter we will be providing you with a sneak peak at our first NobleSpirit curated catalogue auction sale on eBay.
An exclusive eBay auction feature, these catalogue events will provide buyers and consignment sellers with a first of its kind traditional auction experience with 6 week lead times for specialized and high value sale events.
To learn more call our office and look for official press and marketing announcements in the next few days.
Conversations with Philatelists
Every Monday morning > The world of stamp collecting
Every Friday morning > The latest news in the world of stamps
Testimonials:
Jason Parr
An intriguing episode guys. The tie between postal and social, political and economic history is surely the future of our wonderful hobby. Cheers as usual from sunny, windy Ozstralia
Tim Huxley
Hugely enjoyed this episode. Peter Congreve brings covers alive through his enthusiasm for their social and family history dimensions.
Allan Westphall
Utterly enjoyable and enlightening! And with lots of great illustrations - a model for future podcasts, perhaps!
6-22-2021 NobleSpirit Newsletter: Karl Rove Talks Political Covers & Spellman Museum Holds Open House
June 22nd, 2021
Conversations with Philatelists
Ep. 58: Karl Rove: The Historical Significance of Political Covers
In this week's episode, Karl Rove, former Deputy Chief of Staff to President George W. Bush, discusses his family's history with stamp collecting, his favorite items in his collection, and the historical lessons that can be taught when diving into campaign covers.
Spellman Museum Holds Successful Open House
NobleSpirit was honored to sponsor the Spellman Museum of Stamps and Postal History's first open house of the 2021 season this past Saturday, June 19th.
The open house allowed guests to tour the newly remodeled museum, and featured special exhibits on Zeppelins, women's suffrage, and a reconstructed sheet of Penny Blacks,
Joe Mullin, Executive Director of the Spellman Museum of Stamps and Postal History
6-16-2021 NobleSpirit Newsletter: $500k CV in Singles, Stanley Gibbons Interview, and a US Mint Specialized Album
June 16th, 2021
$500,000 CV of US & World Wide Better Singles All at 99c No Reserve!
Over the next two weeks, we are auctioning off $500,000 CV in individual better singles from the US and World all under the consignment tag (CCS).
All auctions will run for 10 days at 99c No Reserve.
featured items from this collection:
Choice US VFU 4 Margins = $775 CV Grid CXL
Auction ends: Thursday, June 17th, 2021 at 6:58PM EST
Great Britain No. 175 MH Corner Margin Seahorse = $900
Auction ends: Monday, June 21st, 2021 at 7:01PM EST
Superb Gem Great Britain 93 XFU = $5,000 CV
Auction ends: Friday, June 25th, 2021 at 6:39PM EST
Popular US No. 293 $2 Trans-Miss MH = $1,900 CV!
Auction ends: Monday, June 21st, 2021 at 7:30PM EST
Great Britain No. 1 Penny Black Used on Cover = $750
Auction ends: Thursday, June 24th, 2021 at 7:12PM EST
Rare Popular Great Britain 74 XFU = $3,250 CV 10/-
Auction ends Friday, June 25th, 2021 at 6:36PM EST
Conversations with Philatelists
Ep. 57: Stanley Gibbons: Victoria Lajer on the Purchase of the British Guiana One-Cent Magenta
Want to know what's in store for the world's most valuable stamp? Victoria Lajer, Managing Director of Stanley Gibbons, discusses the company’s recent purchase of the rare British Guiana 1c Magenta, and their intentions for the stamp going forward.
Watch NobleSpirit VP Michael Cortese and HR Harmer CEO Charles Epting Examine the British Guiana 1c Up Close:
Ep. 57: On Location at Sotheby's: An In-Depth Look at the World's Most Valuable Stamp
Featured Item of the Week:
Colossal $160,000+ CV US Mint Specialized with 22 Certificates!
An expertly assembled United States Mint Collection with over $160,000 CV and 22 certificates!
Please view all 418 photos of this collection in order to grasp the full scope of its value!
*this item is excluded from the 25% off store sale
Sale!
25% off sale in our eBay store from June 16th - July 31st!
Offers encouraged on material!
Find Us at the Great American Stamp Show!
Visit our booth (#411) next to the HR Harmer booth at the Great American Stamp Show in Chicago, Illinois August 12th - 15th 2021.
6-7-2021 NobleSpirit Newsletter: Have an Exclusive In-Depth Look at the World's Most Valuable Stamp
Last Thursday, Michael and Charles were extended a special invitation by philatelic consultant Robert Scott to visit Sotheby's and view the world's most valuable stamp in person - The British Guiana One-Cent Black on Magenta. Michael and Charles had the immense privilege of examining the stamp free of its protective plating, and a full day earlier than the general public's viewing.
The stamp, currently owned by Stuart Weitzman, is set to go to auction at Sotheby's tomorrow, Tuesday June 8th, 2021, alongside two of Weitzman's other rare treasures: the Inverted Jenny Plate Block and the 1933 Double Eagle coin. The British Guiana One-Cent Magenta was last sold in 2014 to Weitzman for $9.4 million via Sotheby's auction, and is estimated to fetch $10-15 million this time around.
Mr. Scott's generous hospitality in providing Michael and Charles this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the stamp in the flesh exemplifies the level of inclusivity that is required to engage the next generation of philatelists in enlivening and enriching the hobby.
In this incredibly special episode of Conversations with Philatelists, join Michael and Charles as they closely examine the most valuable stamp in the world, in addition to the Inverted Jenny Plate block. They discuss the history and condition of the stamps, and are also joined by numismatic consultant David Tripp to discuss the fascinating history behind the 1933 Double Eagle.
NobleSpirit - An Alternative Approach for sellers
By Gary Loew.
Find out what the American Philatelic Society (APS) has to say about NobleSpirit and auctions in a fabulous new article in the June issue of The American Philatelist.
5-18-2021 NobleSpirit Newsletter: What Can $15 Million Buy? The World's Most Expensive Stamp
May 18th, 2021
Conversations with Philatelists News:
Graham Beck and Conversations with Philatelists Discuss The World's Most Expensive Stamp Coming to Auction
The rarest and most valuable stamp in the world, the British Guiana One Cent Magenta, is coming to auction on June 8th, 2021. Graham Beck invited Michael and Charles onto his show Exploring Stamps to discuss this incredible philatelic event.
Michael, Charles, and Graham discuss who may potentially purchase the stamp, the process for such a monumental auction, and predictions for the final hammer price.
This Week's Featured Items:
1951 Willie Mays #305 NY Giants Rookie Card - EX + 5.5
(Auction ends: TODAY, Tuesday, May 18th 7:11PM EST)
1951 Original Mickey Mantle Rookie Card - Graded
(Auction ends: TODAY, Tuesday, May 18th 6:54PM EST)
Incredible $3,582 CV US Mint Duck Stamp Coll RW1-RW61
(Auction ends Friday, May 21st at 7:25PM EST)
Remarkable US 704-715 Mint NH Full Sheets = $4,000 CV
(Auction ends Friday, May 21st at 7:24PM EST)
Conversations with Philatelists Ep. 53: Constanze Dennis: On Auction House Management
Constanze Dennis, Managing Director of Grosvenor Auctions discusses her unusual pathway to her current position, and the responsibilities and challenges that come with it. She also discusses the pleasure of in-person auctioneering, and how to get younger generations involved in philately.
Conversations with Philatelists Partners with Stamp Collector Magazine
New Subscription Rate for Non-UK Readers!
Collectors in the USA can now read Stamp Collector for less than $20 per quarter!
Subscribe to Stamp Collector magazine for £13.50 (c. US$19) per quarter by recurring debit/credit card, and have every issue of the popular collecting magazine sent direct to your home.
Just visit the website and click on "Worldwide Promotions"
Learn more about the partnership from Matthew Hill's interview on Conversations with Philatelists:
5-12-2021 NobleSpirit Newsletter: Baseball Cards and the Interconnection between Postal and Print Networks
May 12th, 2021
Conversations with Philatelists
Ep. 52: Dr. Joseph Adelman: The Revolutionary Networks of Printer Postmasters
Dr. Joseph Adelman, an associate professor of history at Framingham State University, discusses his book, Revolutionary Networks: The Business and Politics of Printing the News 1763-1789, and the influence that postmasters had in the distribution of news in the late 18th century.
Dr. Adelman provides fresh insight into the role communication played at key moments in the formation of America. Nefarious individuals, early monopolies, as well as industrious networks all contributed.
"Dr. Adelman -- he's a charismatic guest who articulately conveys the enthusiasm he has for his field without ever taking his foot off the gas." -Physics2112 (review)
Where would you like to be on the NO RESERVE auction
trajectory from $1 to $30,000?
You have 7 days from now until Tuesday May 18th to name your price...
Then there's that Mantle 51 Bowman Graded Rookie . And, the rest of a recently discovered massive oldtime baseball card collection with graded and the ungraded examples, all with enormous potential!
All being sold at absolute no reserve to the highest bidder.
Search: "NobleSpirit NO RESERVE (SU)" on eBay
4-13-2021 NobleSpirit Newsletter: Revisiting the 1800's: Penny Blacks, Westward Expansion, and Historic Mill Buildings
April 13th, 2021
3-Strip of Penny Blacks Comes to Market for the First Time in 30 Years
One of the most iconic stamps a collector could acquire is the famous Penny Black. Even with over 68 million printed, mint copies are often valued as the most exciting stamp for those lucky enough to have one in their collection.
Starting today, we are running a 10-day auction, starting at .99c, with a conservative reserve, for a Mint OG Margin strip of 3, plate 2, positions RJ/RL. Catalogue value of £37,500 and comes with a fresh 2019 Sismondo Certificate which describes the strip as a "scarce and unusual multiple."
This strip has not come to market in 30 years. It was last acquired from the estate of a private dealer located in the UK in the early 90's.
The History Behind NobleSpirit's Home: A Historic 19th Century Mill Building
Seven years ago, NobleSpirit experienced a growth spurt, and our operation moved into a large historic mill building at 16 Concord Hill Rd. in Pittsfield, NH. Last week, the Pittsfield Historical Society surprised our team with an old photo of the building, and a brief history behind its many uses over the centuries.
"William B. Hartwell had the building erected for use as a grist mill and store at the foot of Concord Hill. The building was 68' x 30' and two and a half stories high. The grist mill in the back half of the building was powered by a long, eight-inch wide and one-quarter inch thick rubber belt, connecting to the sawmill on the river behind the building. Initially, flour, corn, and all kinds of grain were sold in the store. Gradually, Mr. Hartwell added other items: groceries, soap, canned goods, hardware, rope, nails, lanterns, scythes, and a candy counter. Sometime before 1920 the grist mill ceased operation.
Russell H. Knowles purchased the property in 1939 and converted it into an automotive repair shop called Riverside Garage. In 1962, it was purchased by Harvey L. Smith, who operated a used car sales and repair shop known as Smitty's Garage." The building then passed through a few different owners before NobleSpirit founder, Joseph Cortese, purchased the building.
Today, our building operates on three floors, including a loading and storage bay with a conveyer belt, a shipping department, an office space with desks for specialized photographers, a library section with reference books, a vast sorting room to examine and divide collections in preparation for sale, and a catwalk across the third floor that connects the meeting room and administrative offices.
Cameron Blevins teaches American History and Digital Humanities at the University of Colorado Denver. His new book, Paper Trails: The US Post and the Making of the American West (Oxford University Press 2021) explores nineteenth-century Westward expansion in the United States as a result of the sprawling infrastructure of the nation's postal network. Since its release a few weeks ago, Cameron's book has been a sweeping success.
Michael and Charles sat down with Cameron to discuss the inspiration behind the book, several topics that it covers, and how the research of past philatelists fueled core datasets of his research.
A groundbreaking new perspective of our nation's past, Paper Trails will reshape the way people view one of the most significant periods of growth in American history, and how the West developed.
We are offering up a signed copy of Cameron Blevins’ book, Paper Trails: The US Post and the Making of the American West, to one lucky winner.
To enter to win: Retweet this tweet or leave a comment on the YouTube video of Cameron.
Winner will be decided on April 30th.
3-24-2021 NobleSpirit Newsletter: Get Ready for Virtual Stampex
March 24th, 2021
Visit the NobleSpirit and Conversations with Philatelists Booth at Virtual Stampex 2021 Tomorrow!
Virtual Stampex starts tomorrow and runs 24/7 until March 27th!
Visit the NobleSpirit Booth (Booth #11)
The NobleSpirit booth will showcase some of our premium featured items this month, and Michael and Joe will be available to discuss current inventory, and the NobleSpirit consignment process for collectors and dealers who are looking to sell their collections.
Visit the Conversations with Philatelists Booth (Booth #C9)
Michael and Charles will be available to talk about the show and answer any questions!
Last Friday, Charles went on location at the St. Louis stamp expo to report on the largest stamp show since the beginning of the pandemic. Alex Haimann makes a special appearance, and they discuss attendance at the show, the atmosphere, and what shows may look like in the future.
In a year that has been short on stamp shows, Charles, Michael, and Alex bring the expo right to you!
3-17-2021 NobleSpirit Newsletter: Meet the New Generation of Philatelists
This week, Casey Jo White discusses her position as a collection curator, her involvement in the philatelic community, and effective research methods.
Casey also talks about her current philatelic passion projects, the cats on stamps club, and shares with us the local post stamp she designed.
White is one of the hobby's most avid and innovative young philatelists, and she discusses her journey into the world of stamps as a completely unexpected and incredibly rewarding experience. This is a growing trend in philately – the emergence of young collectors discovering how much philately has to offer below the surface, incorporating history, geography, and culture to connect the past and present.
The Future of the Stamp Industry
At NobleSpirit, our entire staff of 20 is under 35 years old. We often see new hires expressing delight in discovering just how interesting the world of stamps really is, and how much it has to offer.
Casey Jo White's experience is just one of countless stories emerging from a new generation of scholars, apprentices, collectors, dealers and investors.
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In this article at Linn's Stamp News, Scott Catalog and Linn's Editor-in-Chief Jay Bigalke reports how the simple act of sharing his passion ignited the spark that induced his son's journey of discovery into the world of stamps.
Mar 2, 2021, 8 AM
Philatelic Foreword by Jay Bigalke
"One of the stories in the March 15 edition of Linn’s struck a chord with me. Charles Epting, HR Harmer writes about how author F. Scott Fitzgerald used stamps to bond with his daughter.
Like many in the world, I largely worked from home last March and April, and my children saw me working on various stamp projects throughout the day when they would slightly interrupt or let me know it was time for lunch.
One day, the oldest started asking quite a few questions about stamps and what I was doing. The next day I put together a number of items to get him started on his own collection: a packet of worldwide used stamps, an old stock book, an older edition of the Scott Specialized Catalogue of United States Stamps and Covers, and a Mystic stamp sales catalog that I had received in the mail.
It clearly sparked something as he bookmarked several pages in the two catalogs and started his own collection. He even made a tag for the cover of the stock book, calling his collection “To the Stamps.”....READ MORE
3-1-2021 NobleSpirit Newsletter: Meet the Curator of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II's Royal Stamp Collection
The royal philatelic collection is not only one of the most valuable stamp collections in the world, but is also the most comprehensive collection of British and Commonwealth philatelic material ever known. The curation of such a collection is a huge undertaking, and requires an expert of exceptional skill and knowledge.
This week, Michael and Charles talk to John Scott, the most recent keeper of the Queen's collection. Scott not only discusses the responsibilities he held in his position, but also explores the debate of whether a stamp collection should be preserved in its original historical state, or whether it should be fluid and adapted over time to meet the changing tides of the field.
Scott also talks about his own personal collecting interests and his philatelic journey to becoming the Queen's curator, and various methods to engage more people in the hobby.
In this episode, Lawrence Block, a Mystery Writers of America Grand Master discusses how his passion for philately influenced character development in his fiction novels, the progression of his three-year column Generally Speaking, for Linn's Stamp News, and the writing projects he's working on now.
Block has written dozens of novels during his long writing career, and provides a refreshing insight into how philately touches people's lives in different ways.
While we deal in all kinds of collectibles here at NobleSpirit, our founder Joseph Cortese specializes in rare stamps and coins. Whether it's a single coin or an entire collection, determining the value of coins often requires an expert's eye.
In this new blog post, we discuss a few different types of coins worth collecting and how to properly care for your collection to preserve value. Whether you're simply thinking of investing in coin collecting or are already a seasoned numismatist, this article can provide insight for everyone.
2-12-2021 NobleSpirit Newsletter: Conversations with Philatelists Wins APS Chatty Award and Gives an Inside Look at Virtual Stampex 2021
February 12th, 2021
An Inside Sneak Preview at the Upcoming Virtual Stampex Show in March 2021
In this special bonus episode, Michael and Charles talk to four different groups of philatelists who will be involved in putting on the Philatelic Traders' Society worldwide Virtual Stampex show March 25th - 28th, 2021.
Join Michael and Charles as they speak to Heinrich Koehler, the Royal Philatelic Society London, the American Philatelic Society, and Spink to discuss all of the exciting features at the upcoming Virtual Stampex show, and be the first to get an exclusive inside look at the future of stamp shows.
On February 4th, 2021 the American Philatelic Society held a live streamed award ceremony to announce the winners of their newly established Chatty Awards. We are extremely excited to announce that Conversations with Philatelists was awarded the Digital Philately award, via popular vote. This marks the podcast's second award win in the span of just two months, having won a Philatelic Traders' Society award for Creative Concept of the Year in December 2020.
The APS Chatty Awards are "designed to recognize and celebrate the extraordinary Stamp Chat presentations of 2020 that highlight the best the hobby has to offer."
Categories of the awards included Digital Philately, Connecting Philately with the Professional World, Stamps Teach Award, Creative Philately, Cultural Philately, Destination Philately, and Philatelic Storytelling.
Congratulations to all the award winners this year!
On Monday's episode of Conversations with Philatelists, Michael and Charles had the pleasure of speaking with Roy Betts, a second generations U.S. Postal Service Employee who is the Senior Public Relations Representative in Corporate Communications for the USPS.
Roy discusses his family history of working for the USPS, how his career track in journalism led to his current position, and some of the many responsibilities he has running PR for the USPS, such as managing the announcements for new issue stamps each year.
1-27-2021 NobleSpirit Newsletter: Announcing: Conversations with Philatelists Partners with Stamp Collector Magazine
January 27th, 2021
We are incredibly excited to announce a new partnership between Conversations with Philatelists and Stamp Collector Magazine! Starting March 1st, Michael and Charles will be contributing a monthly column to the magazine's collection of high quality content.
Stamp Collector Magazine gives you all the information, news, expert advice, market insight and inspiration you need to build your stamp collection and get the most from your hobby. Every issue features in-depth collecting guides giving you the lowdown on classic stamp sets, new stamps, postal history, first day covers and much more.
As part of this exciting partnership, Stamp Collector has offered a special digital subscription rate exclusive for NobleSpirit customers:
Subscribe to the digital edition of Stamp Collector for only $2.99 for the first three issues, saving you over $12!
You can also subscribe to the print version of Stamp Collector Magazine: Here
Learn more about Stamp Collector Magazine and the partnership from the latest episode of Conversations with Philatelists:
Ep. 34: Matthew Hill: Stamp Collector Magazine
Matthew Hill is the editor of Stamp Collector Magazine and the All About Stamps Website. In this episode, he discusses what the magazine has to offer its readers, how it operates, and the new partnership with Conversations with Philatelists.
1-19-2021 NobleSpirit Newsletter: Step Inside the World's Most Exclusive Stamp Club; an Interview with Patrick Maselis, President of the Club De Monte Carlo
January 19th, 2021
The Latest Episode of Conversations with Philatelists:
Ep. 33: Patrick Maselis: President of The Club De Monte Carlo
"Penetrating the upper stratosphere of stamp collecting. When those at the top of the world's most elite collectors, in the world's most exclusive clubs, focus their attention on the future of generations to come. The succession of asset class collectibles." – Joseph Cortese, President of NobleSpirit
In this week's episode, Patrick Maselis, President of the Club De Monte Carlo and former President of the Royal Philatelic Society London, discusses the importance of engaging young philatelists at MonacoPhil, and the club's membership selection process.
He also shares tales of his own personal collecting interests, and how he came to hold his current position as the President of the Club De Monte Carlo.
Michael and Charles also discuss their own personal favorite podcasts, and read and reply to listener mail.
Conversations with Philatelists Nominated
for APS Stamp Chat Chatty Award!
We are excited to announce that Conversations with Philatelists has been nominated for an APS Stamp Chats Chatty Award in the Digital Philately category.
The APS Chatty Awards are "designed to recognize and celebrate the extraordinary Stamp Chat presentations of 2020 that highlight the best the hobby has to offer."
Winners of each category are determined by votes cast by the public. If you've been enjoying the podcast, please head over to the APS site and cast your vote to support Conversations with Philatelists!
Voting closes Sunday, January 31st 2021 at 11:59PM EST.
Winners will be announced on a live streamed Facebook and YouTube ceremony on February 4th, 2021 at 6:30PM EST.