HS Code 9704
Postage Stamps and Postal Stationery
HS code 9704 involves postage or revenue stamps, stamp-postmarks, and first-day covers that are used, or unused but not intended for current postal use.
4-digit Section XXIAir
HS Code 9704 — Postage Stamps and Postal Stationery
This category covers postage stamps, revenue stamps, and first-day covers that are of philatelic interest. It includes both used and unused stamps, provided they are not currently in circulation for use as payment.
What's included
- Philatelic collections
- Cancelled postage stamps
- Antique revenue stamps
- First-day covers
What's excluded
- Unused stamps for current use → use
4907(Current-issue stamps used as legal tender or for postage are classified as financial documents.)
Common examples
- Rare Victorian penny black stamp
- Collection of used international stamps
- Authenticated first-day covers
- Antique stamped envelopes
Frequently asked questions
How are stamp collections valued for customs?
Value is based on 'collector value' derived from catalogues (like Stanley Gibbons) rather than the face value of the stamps.
Trade & shipping notes
- Typical duty range: 0%
- Documentation: High-value individual stamps should have expert certificates of authenticity.
- Typical shipping mode: Air
- Top exporters: United Kingdom, Germany, Switzerland
- Top importers: China, United States, United Kingdom
Related HS codes
Key takeaway
Collectors' stamps are generally duty-free, but current-issue stamps are treated like currency.
Related HS codes
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