About
Bonhams Stamps facilitates the buying and selling of rare stamps, covers, and postal history items through Bruun Rasmussen Auctioneers, a sister company within the Bonhams Network. Six online auctions are held annually, with lot prices ranging from €60 to thousands of euros. Once a year, a flagship auction showcases major highlights presented in a beautifully illustrated printed catalogue. The department is staffed by highly experienced philatelic specialists with deep expertise spanning the world's long postal history. Sellers can submit items for free, confidential auction estimates online or by contacting a local specialist directly. Buyers gain access to a diverse inventory of individual stamps, rare covers, and entire philatelic collections assembled by passionate collectors from around the globe. Demand is particularly strong for stamps from Asian countries — especially China — as well as former colonial territories, Great Britain, the USA, and Nordic nations. Notable recent results include a collection of rare Chinese covers from 1949–80 that achieved €92,300, an Australian stamps collection from 1850–1966 that fetched €16,800, and a large Portuguese colonies collection that sold for €70,500. With representatives in 22 countries, the Bonhams Network ensures maximum exposure and competitive prices for every consignment. Whether buying, selling, or simply seeking a professional valuation, Bonhams Stamps provides a trusted, specialist-led global marketplace for philatelic treasures.
Key Features
- Six Annual Online Auctions: Bruun Rasmussen holds six online stamp auctions per year, with prices ranging from €60 to thousands of euros, including one flagship event with an illustrated printed catalogue.
- Expert Philatelic Specialists: A team of highly experienced specialists covers the world's postal history, providing accurate valuations and tailored advice for both buyers and sellers.
- Free Auction Estimates: Sellers can submit items online for a free, confidential auction estimate with no obligation, receiving specialist guidance on the next steps for selling.
- Global Buyer Network: Access to collectors and buyers across 22 countries via the Bonhams Network ensures maximum competitive bidding and the best possible prices for consignors.
- Diverse Philatelic Inventory: From individual rare stamps and covers to complete philatelic collections, covering high-demand regions including China, the UK, the USA, Australia, and Nordic nations.
Use Cases
- Selling a personal or inherited stamp collection through a globally recognized, specialist auction house
- Buying rare stamps, covers, and postal history items from around the world at competitive auction prices
- Obtaining a free professional valuation for philatelic items before deciding whether to sell
- Accessing deep specialist expertise on stamps from specific countries or historical periods
- Expanding a philatelic collection with rare covers and stamps from Asia, Europe, or former colonies
Pros
- Global Market Reach: Offices and representatives in 22 countries provide unmatched international exposure, attracting serious collectors and bidders from around the world.
- Deep Specialist Expertise: Highly knowledgeable philatelic specialists offer precise valuations and informed market insights, giving both buyers and sellers confidence in every transaction.
- Free Confidential Valuations: Sellers can obtain professional auction estimates at no cost, with no obligation to proceed, making it easy to explore options risk-free.
Cons
- Buyer's Premium Added: All purchases are subject to a buyer's premium on top of the hammer price, which can significantly increase the total cost for winning bidders.
- Limited Auction Frequency: With only six auctions held per year, sellers may face a wait of several months before their items come up for sale.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many stamp auctions does Bonhams hold per year?
Bonhams Stamps, through Bruun Rasmussen Auctioneers, holds six online auctions per year. Once a year, a flagship auction features major highlights in a beautifully illustrated printed catalogue.
How do I get a valuation for my stamps or collection?
You can submit your items online at bonhams.com or bruun-rasmussen.dk for a free, confidential auction estimate. A specialist will review your submission and advise on the best next steps for selling.
What types of philatelic items are sold through Bonhams?
Bonhams Stamps sells individual rare stamps, covers, and complete philatelic collections. Popular categories include stamps from China, the UK, the USA, Australia, Nordic countries, and former colonial territories.
Who typically buys stamps at Bonhams auctions?
Buyers come from around the world, including passionate philatelists, seasoned collectors, and investors. In recent years, demand has been particularly strong for Asian stamps, especially from China and former colonies.
What prices have Bonhams stamp auctions achieved?
Results vary widely. Recent highlights include a collection of rare Chinese covers from 1949–80 that sold for €92,300, an Australian stamps collection (1850–1966) for €16,800, and a large Portuguese colonies collection for €70,500 — all including buyer's premium.
