The Graf Zeppelin Stamps Are My “Maltese Falcons

For those who haven’t seen “The Maltese Falcon” with Humphrey Bogart, let me provide a brief summary of the movie. It was made back in the 1940’s with old time stars Sidney Greenstreet and Peter Lorre. Sidney Greenstreet is chasing the elusive Maltese Falcon, a heavily jeweled sculpture made hundreds of years ago. It is virtually priceless. The mystique and beauty of this bird consumes Greenstreet’s life and can only come close once to getting it.

Ever since I was a kid, I’ve had a strong interest in stamp and coin collecting. I know it seems like an old man’s hobby, but I really find these hobbies fascinating. To me, its history in the flesh. There is usually an interesting story behind the stamp or coin, and at the very least, you can imagine the era in which these items circulated. Combine the intrinsic beauty with the history and it makes for a great hobby. The only problem is that it doesn’t make for a good investment unless you buy the expensive items in great condition.

The Graf Zeppelin stamps (U.S. airmail) printed in 1930 are my “Maltese Falcons.” While clearly not as valuable as the Falcon, these items of incredible beauty have always been just out of my price range. There were three denominations in the series (65¢, $1.30, and $2.65) and they featured zeppelins traveling the globe. The artwork is amazing and the colors are incredibly vibrant. Moreover, it represents a mode of travel which is long gone and was truly romantic in its time. Most of these stamps were destroyed by the government due to poor sales in the Depression. The stamps generally start at about $300 for the green 65¢ Zeppelin and $800 for the blue $2.60 Zeppelin. Top condition brings the price up dramatically.

I came close to purchasing the green 65¢ stamp one time many years ago in Scottsdale, AZ. The stamp dealer had the most pristine example. Perfectly centered, color so fresh it looked like the day it was printed, and full gum on the back. He wanted $400 and although I didn’t have the money, I thought about selling some of my other possessions. I decided to pass on it. Good idea. These stamps haven’t shot up in price. Also, my taste has changed to cancelled covers with commemorative postmarks. It makes for a more interesting piece.

Jon Dean, when you read this, I just gave you a great idea for my next Christmas gift. [The Pen Gaaghi does celebrate Christmas.] Pics of the stamps are righthere.