Classification of Machins can be a tricky job at times, with over 1000 easily distinguishable varieties available.

The first step to classification is to check the value. If the value is in “d” rather than “P” then it must have been released between 1967-72. Machins with a “P” were released between 1972 and the present day. If the value has a 1/2p value, then it must have been released between 1972-85. If it does not have a value, just an NVI, then it must have been produced after 1993.

That gives you four categories that the stamp must have fallen into. Next stage is to check the perforations. If the stamp has elliptical perfs, then it can also be classified as being produced after 1993.

From this stage you will need a catalogue to classify stamps further. The catalogue will provide the following reference for identification.

Firstly the value and the colour. For example the 2p Green Machin, pre 1993, is issued in green, myrtle-green, bright green, emerald green and deep green. Only when the stamps are compared side by side or with a colour chart will the difference become clear.

The next stage is to check the phosphor bands, or lack of. The same 2p stamp mentioned above, was issued with 2 side bands on normal paper, on normal paper with an all over phosphor, and on phosphorised paper.

This specific machin was also issued at a later date with a redrawn value, giving another 2 possible permutations. So far we have 12 variations of a single stamp! A serious collector would then attempt to determine the type of paper and gum that has been used, giving even more varieties of the stamp stamp.

Machins continue to be a very popular area of stamp collecting, and will continue to do so for many years to come.

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