'Mint' Penny Black stamp appears at auction, valued at $15,500

It's uncommon to find Britain's first-ever postage stamp in this condition - and it's a great investment

Considering that it was the world's first-ever postage stamp, inspiring the use of stamps around the world, it's funny that examples of Britain's Penny Black aren't especially rare on today's collectors' markets (they were produced in vast numbers after being issued in 1840).

However, while Penny Blacks often crop-up at auctions around the world, unused examples are relatively uncommon. And it's for precisely this reason that philatelists won't want to miss the Colonial Stamp Company's upcoming philatelic sale on September 30.

The 'mint' 1840 Penny Black

Among the various lots is a rare mint condition 1840 1d black - "mint" means that the stamp is in its original state of issue, remains unused, has never been mounted and still has its full adhesive gum.

According to the lot notes, the stamp has been watermarked, is imperforate (ie without perforations along the edge, seperated with scissors) and has four good margins.

Unsurprisingly, a significant value is attached to the stamp - although its price isn't beyond the means of many entry-level investors. This historic Penny Black has a Stanley Gibbons catalogue price of $15,500.

It will be hoped that this rare and historic Penny Black will sell for a figure in this region when it auctions next Thursday.