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What would you do with R1m?

EACH week we ask an expert to allocate a hypothetical lump sum of R1m in his or her field. Investment ideas range from the stock market to art.

This week Alan Rogers, president of the Royal Philatelic Society of Cape Town and president of the Philatelic Federation of SA, shares his wish list.

Everyone who has inherited stamps or albums has the thought at the back of their mind that they could be worth something. However, it is rare to pick up a gem from a casual, general collection.

If you are serious about investing wisely, research the market, ask questions and use only reputable dealers such as those affiliated to the South African Philatelic Dealers Association or similarly internationally recognised dealer associations.

Valuable or rare stamps are issued with certificates of authenticity, which is a guarantee of quality and provenance. While classical stamps usually attract greater value, varieties on more modern material can also garner high prices.

There are some highly prized items such as the block of four Australian 1913/14 Roos 3d Olive with imperforate sides, which sold on auction in South Africa for R826 000.  On the other hand, one could expect to pay up to R150 000 for a King George V Silver Jubilee Prussian Blue commemorative stamp.

If I had R1m to spend I would indulge in my personal favourite - King George V Seahorses.  These were issued in four printings between 1913 and 1934. Although there are four stamps to the series, only the first printing has all four values: 2/6d, 5/-, 10/- and £1.

These particular stamps hold their value and all things being equal, should substantially increase in value over a five-year period. I would also opt for a Prussian Blue.  

While I only collect unmounted mint stamps, postally used items often attract extremely high prices.

 - Fin24

 - For Dream big investment ideas on shares and art, click here.

 
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