World Stamps

Tip of the week: 1994 Ethiopia Simien Fox set of 20

Oct 15, 2015, 8 AM
The Ethiopia 1994 Simien Fox set of 20 stamps (Scott 1393A-1393T) is in demand in mint never-hinged condition and selling for $850 or more per set.

By Henry Gitner and Rick Miller

At the dawn of the 20th century, Ethiopia was one of only two independent African countries. One of the oldest Christian nations in the world, Ethiopia’s history and civilization date back to biblical times. Ethiopia stamps have a strong following in the United States and Europe.

In 1994, the country was in a state of transition following the fall of the Marxist dictatorship that had gained power in the 1970s. On Oct. 18, 1994, a set of 20 Simien Fox stamps perforated gauge 14 (Scott 1393A-1393T) was issued.

The stamps were mostly intended and used for postage. They were not widely distributed to dealers, collectors, or catalog editors. We last tipped this set in the June 25, 2007, Stamp Market Tips column. It is time to tip it again.

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The 2016 Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue values the used set at $8.20 with the value in italics. The set is not valued in mint never-hinged condition.

The mint set is currently selling for $850 or more with no shortage of takers at that price. If you see it at that price or less, it would be a great buy.

We are not sure what the price ought to be for a used set, but we are certain it is more than the current catalog value. So if you see a set offered at that price, buy it.