Customer Reviews

Scott 2009 Specialized Catalogue of United States Stamps & Covers

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The Scott specialised catalogue of United States stamps is a bible in two ways: because it is the only current catalogue of its kind and because of its wealth of information.

As it has become a reference book one would have expected that rather than rest on the laurels of a monopoly position the editors would have improved the layout, the design, the consistency in presentation and corrected errors. This is being done on a very piecemeal basis probably because of lack of resources. In some aspects, perhaps not regarded as important to the editors, up to 80% of the information is missing or wrong.

This should not detract from the value of the catalogue but it is a great pity that the publishers do not provide the editors with more resources so that they can accomplish their task.

The Scott Specialized Catalogue of United States Stamps & Covers remains the single most important reference guide for most collectors of U.S. postage and revenue stamps and related philatelic items. The majority of illustrations are in full color, which makes even thumbing through the catalogue an enjoyable way to spend a few minutes.

Mistakes remain from previous editions, however. The catalogue includes very specific information regarding perforations and die cut measurements on recent issues, differentiating between die cut differences as small as 0.1 perf per 2mm. Unfortunately, a good deal of that information is off by up to 0.25 perfs per 2mm--not important for the average collector, but it does not help the advanced philatelist to seek out specific varieties.

Overall, the catalogue is well worth the money--just be prepared to pencil in a few corrections as you go.

Excellent service and communication. Item as described and very useful. Happy to continue its life after library usage.