Current Market Value: $16,000

Russian Imperial Value Guide

Complete price guide for the Russia 1857 Imperial Arms - First Russian Issue (1857). Current market value, investment potential, and expert identification tips for this scarce Russia treasure.

$16,000

Current Value

1857

Year Issued

Scarce

Rarity Level

Good

Investment Grade

Last updated: February 2, 2026

What Is the Russian Imperial and Why Is It Valuable?

The Russian Imperial is a scarce stamp issued by Russia in 1857, currently valued at $16,000. Its value stems from its historical significance, extreme rarity, and sustained collector demand worldwide.

The Russia 1857 Imperial Arms - First Russian Issue is one of the most scarce and valuable stamps in philatelic history. Issued by Russia in 1857, this remarkable stamp has achieved legendary status among collectors worldwide, with a current market value of $16,000.

Russia's first postage stamps featured the Imperial double-headed eagle and marked the beginning of Russian philately.

The historical significance and extreme rarity of the Russian Imperial make it a cornerstone piece for serious collectors. Its good investment potential reflects both its cultural importance and the sustained demand from collectors and investors worldwide.

How Much Is the Russian Imperial Worth Today?

The Russian Imperial is worth $16,000 on average. Poor condition specimens sell for around $3,500, while mint condition examples can fetch $28,000+. Values depend on condition, provenance, and certification.

Poor Condition

$3,500

Damaged/Heavily Used

Fine Condition

$8,500

Good/Average Quality

Mint Condition

$28,000+

Perfect/Never Hinged

Market values for the Russian Imperial vary significantly based on condition, provenance, and certification. The premium for mint never-hinged examples reflects the extreme rarity of specimens that have survived in perfect condition since 1857.

Recent auction results show rising trends, with Growing Russian economy and collector interest drive appreciation.. Professional certification from recognized grading services is essential for stamps valued above $10,000.

Is the Russian Imperial a Good Investment?

The Russian Imperial has good investment potential with a continued appreciation expected from russian collector demand. market outlook. Key investment factors include: First Russian stamps and Imperial history appeal.

Investment Grade: Good

Based on historical performance and market demand

The Russian Imperial represents good investment potential within the philatelic market. Increasing values as Russian philatelic market expands. The market outlook for this stamp is continued appreciation expected from russian collector demand..

Key factors supporting the investment case include: First Russian stamps, Imperial history appeal, Condition important, Russian collector demand, Pre-revolution provenance. However, investors should be aware that the philatelic market can be illiquid, and values may fluctuate based on collector sentiment and economic conditions.

Investment Disclaimer: Stamp collecting should be approached primarily as a hobby. While certain stamps have shown strong historical appreciation, past performance does not guarantee future results. Always consult with philatelic experts before making significant investments.

How Do I Identify an Authentic Russian Imperial?

Authentic Russian Imperial specimens feature specific characteristics including double-headed eagle. Professional authentication is essential for stamps of this value.

Double-headed eagle

Imperial crown

Cyrillic text

Various denominations

Tsarist era issue

Authenticating the Russian Imperial requires expert knowledge and careful examination of multiple factors. Given its extreme value, professional authentication is absolutely essential before any purchase or sale.

Modern technology like StampSnap's recognition app can provide initial identification assistance, but for stamps of this caliber, consultation with certified philatelic experts and professional grading services is strongly recommended.

What Is the History of the Russian Imperial?

The Russian Imperial was issued in 1857 by Russia and has become one of the most sought-after stamps in philatelic history. Its historical significance and rarity make it a cornerstone piece for serious collectors.

The Russian Imperial holds a unique place in postal history. Issued December 10, 1857, under Tsar Alexander II, these stamps showed the Imperial Russian coat of arms and represented modernization of the postal system.Its creation in 1857 makes it not just a collectible item but a genuine historical artifact.

The circumstances surrounding its issue have become legendary in philatelic circles. This combination of rarity, historical importance, and compelling backstory contributes significantly to its exceptional market value.

Today, the Russian Imperial is recognized not only by stamp collectors but also by museums and cultural institutions as an important artifact of Russia's postal and cultural heritage.