US 24-cent Jenny invert airmail error stamp for $977,500

In a groundbreaking moment for the philatelic community, Robert A. Siegel Auction Galleries set a new record for a single stamp sale on November 14, 2007, with a US 24-cent Jenny invert airmail error stamp selling for a staggering US$977,500. The Jenny Invert stamp, recognized globally as the ‘Mona Lisa’ of US stamp collecting, was enthusiastically driven up in price by passionate collectors vying for the possession of this rare, iconic piece of postal history.

The US 24-cent Jenny Invert, so named for its upside-down airplane image, is an error stamp steeped in lore and history. Produced in 1918, the historic printing oversight made it one of the most well-known and coveted philatelic items worldwide. The allure lies not just in the rarity of these error stamps, but also in the story of their genesis, their survival, and the ongoing numismatic fascination surrounding them.

Robert A. Siegel Auction Galleries, a legendary name in philately circles, has long been the chosen platform for traders and bidders hunting for valuable stamps. The sale of the Jenny Invert at such an unprecedented price only underscores the reputation of Robert A. Siegel Auction Galleries for conducting auctions that make stamp collecting history.

Enthusiasts and collectors understand the significance of the Jenny Invert’s rarity. Only 100 inverts were ever printed, immediately pushing their scarcity value sky-high. Owning a Jenny Invert stamp is akin to owning a small yet significant part of U.S. postal history. This is why bidders at the Robert A. Siegel Auction Galleries were prepared to push the envelope, so to speak, leading to an outstanding final hammer price.

The record-breaking price of $977,500 for a single stamp at the auction reflects the vibrant state of the international stamp-collecting market. It also demonstrates the importance placed on rarity and historical significance in determining the value of philatelic items. The Jenny Invert’s upside-down biplane symbolizes a fascinating era of early airmail and is a captivating reminder of a time when aviation was in its infancy.

Moreover, Robert A. Siegel Auction Galleries have time and again made headlines for their unmatched expertise in curating and presenting such rare finds to the philatelic community. This significant sale in November 2007 was no exception. The record-breaking sum achieved for the Jenny Invert stamp underscores the immense trust and respect that collectors harbor for this prestigious auction house.

As we reflect on this record-setting event, it is important to note that stamp collecting and philately are more than just hobbies—they are gateways into history, culture, and art. The Jenny Invert stamp sale at Robert A. Siegel Auction Galleries is a testament to this, demonstrating the rich tapestry of stories and history hidden in these small pieces of adhesive paper.

Whether you are a seasoned collector or a newcomer to the world of philately, such milestones in stamp collecting, underpinned by the prestige and reliability of Robert A Siegel Auction Galleries, represent not just commercial transactions, but also the invaluable exchange of legacy, art, and a shared cultural heritage.