Reprints of #1s

[Michael]

Another philatelic definition for the rookie in the bunch...
What is the definition of a "reprint" (say, Denmark #1, for example)?  These are not counterfeits or forgeries, by definition, but official printings from the same press that made the original, correct?  If a nearly identical batch is added in the same year, these often get official designations in Scott (say, 1a and 1b) or there is a detailed explanation about how to distinguish plate A from plate B, etc.  If an issue is reprinted years later, it is usually mentioned in a note following the regular issue descriptions in Scott (usually at a value ~1/10 the cost of the original issue).  Were these issued mainly for collectors, a kind of souvenir reproducing the original issue?  Or were they made for postal purposes, just to extend the life-span of a popular previous postage stamp?
Thanks!   Michael

[Jesper]

Hi Michael,

I believe a reprint usually refers to stamps produced for non-postal purposes. For example inserted into a book about the stamp, souvenir sheets at stamp shows (100th anniversary or whatever), and for submission to the U.P.U. as samples.

Reprints can also be made for a postal museum if the originals are so rare that they can't be obtained. Also to have a full sheet for plating purposes, if only singles or very few strips and blocks are known. A reprint is printed with the original plates, but often on different paper, and possibly in different colors than the originals.

Reprint is not a good term, but it does indicate that it was NOT part of the "normal" printings, and therefore not issued and not valid for postage.

Scott lists reprints of some US stamps with major catalog numbers (#3 & 4 for example). This is to the detriment of the hobby, in my opinion - they do not belong there.

In my opinion, a reprint is useful to a plating specialist, and as a spacefiller for very expensive stamps.

The price of a reprint can be anything - some of them are very rare (check the US reprints!). Some have been mass produced, and are almost worthless.

I don't have to tell you that Denmark Scott #1 was the second stamp issued ...

[Tim_Balm]

Michael,

My understanding of the term "reprints" is a little different than Jesper's.