Dmitry Vengerovsky Catalogue of Postage Stamps: Complete GuideThe Dmitry Vengerovsky Catalogue of Postage Stamps has become a reference point for philatelists—especially those interested in Russian and Soviet-era issues, regional releases, and specialized varieties. This guide explains the catalogue’s history, structure, how to use it effectively, what collectors value most about it, and where to find or purchase editions and updates.
What the Catalogue Is and Why It Matters
The Dmitry Vengerovsky Catalogue is a specialized philatelic reference compiling detailed listings of postage stamps across specific geographic and historical scopes. It’s prized for:
- Comprehensive listings of issues, including official releases, regional issues, and some locally produced stamps.
- Detailed technical data such as size, perforation, paper type, watermark information, and color descriptions.
- Valuations and rarity indicators that help collectors assess market worth and scarcity.
- Varieties and errors documentation that highlights printing mistakes, color shifts, and other collectible anomalies.
For collectors of Russian, Soviet, and post-Soviet philately, Vengerovsky’s work often fills gaps left by international catalogues by documenting local releases and specialized print runs.
Brief History and Authorship
Dmitry Vengerovsky is a philatelist and catalogue compiler known in specialized collecting circles. His catalogues typically aggregate authoritative data from postal archives, auction records, specialist dealers, and contributions from regional collectors. Editions may be updated periodically to reflect new finds, revised valuations, and corrections.
Typical Structure and Contents
Most editions of the Vengerovsky catalogue follow a logical layout designed for easy reference:
- Front matter
- Preface and scope
- How to use the catalogue (abbreviations, symbols, condition grades)
- Country/Region sections
- Chronological stamp listings
- Issue date, denomination, and brief purpose or occasion
- Technical descriptions
- Size, perforation, watermark, paper, gum
- Illustrations
- Black-and-white or color plates showing stamp images and notable varieties
- Valuations
- Price guides often for multiple conditions (mint, used, hinged)
- Appendices
- Glossary, bibliography, index, errata from previous editions
How to Read Listings Effectively
- Pay attention to abbreviations and condition codes in the front matter; these significantly affect valuations.
- Compare listed perforation and watermark data with your specimen—many perceived varieties are explained by minor printing differences.
- Use the catalogue’s plate or illustration references to confirm design varieties and known errors.
- Cross-reference valuations with recent auction results; catalogue prices can lag market swings.
Strengths and Limitations
Strengths:
- Depth on regional and specialized issues often missing in broader international catalogues.
- Practical data for identification (perfs, watermarks, papers) that aid authentication.
- Useful for both new collectors and experienced specialists tracking rare varieties.
Limitations:
- Updates may lag newly discovered varieties or recent market changes.
- Print runs and local issues can be incomplete—some very local or ephemeral releases may be absent.
- Language or translation inconsistencies can occur if editions are compiled from regional sources.
(Comparison)
| Aspect | Strength |
|---|---|
| Coverage | Strong for Russian/Soviet/post-Soviet issues and regional varieties |
| Technical detail | High — perfs, papers, watermarks included |
| Valuations | Useful baseline but may lag live market prices |
| Illustrations | Varies by edition; some have full-color plates, others B/W |
Using the Catalogue for Collecting and Trading
- Authentication: Use technical details and plates to identify counterfeits or reprints.
- Valuation: Use catalogue prices as a starting point; adjust for condition, provenance, and recent auction results.
- Cataloguing: Record your items using the exact numbering conventions from Vengerovsky to stay consistent with specialist trading communities.
- Research: Follow references and bibliography for deeper archival sources.
Where to Find Editions and Updates
- Specialist philatelic bookshops and online auction platforms often list past and current editions.
- Philatelic societies or clubs focused on Russian/Soviet collecting may offer or trade copies.
- Check auction catalogues and descriptive listings from major philatelic auction houses for references to the Vengerovsky numbering when checking items for sale.
Tips for Verifying Rarity and Value
- Cross-check catalogue rarity with recent auction results and dealer price lists.
- Inspect provenance and expertizing certificates for high-value items.
- Consult specialist forums and study groups; experienced collectors often share updates on new discoveries or corrections.
Final Notes
The Dmitry Vengerovsky Catalogue of Postage Stamps is a valuable tool for collectors focusing on Russian, Soviet, and regional philately. Treat its valuations as a guide rather than gospel, and combine its technical depth with market research and expert opinions when buying, selling, or authenticating stamps.
If you want, I can:
- Summarize the most important sections into a one-page quick-reference.
- Create a checklist for verifying a stamp using Vengerovsky’s entries.
- Find current sources to buy the latest edition.
Leave a Reply