What is a comb perforation?

A comb perforation is made so that three connected sides are created in one operation. Look for identical hole spacing on three edges of the stamp; this confirms a comb perforation: three sides at once.

How does roulette differ from perforation?

Roulette uses a cutting wheel or blade to make short cuts but leaves the paper in place. You will not see removed paper or round punched holes; instead, the edge shows slits — Roulette: cut without removing paper.

Can I identify perforation with just a scanner?

Yes. A good scanner image lets you examine hole shape and spacing at higher magnification. Include a small ruler in the scan, close the scanner lid to reduce glare, and save the file so you can compare against reference images later.

Will perforation affect stamp value?

Perforation type and condition can affect a stamp's desirability to collectors. Clean, intact perforations that match known issue characteristics generally support value, while torn or altered edges can reduce it.

How to identify stamp perforation types

A clear method for identifying how a stamp is perforated helps you assess condition and value. This guide shows the visual signs to look for and step-by-step checks you can do with simple tools.

Quick facts

Comb: Comb perforation: three sides at once
Roulette: Roulette: cut without removing paper

Why perforation matters

Perforation affects how a stamp separates from a sheet and can change its value to collectors. In philately, perforation type helps identify printing methods, specific issues, and whether a stamp was issued as postage or produced for booklets. Knowing perforation details helps you compare stamps you collect and build an accurate inventory.

Perforation types to look for

Inspect the edges and count how the holes or cuts align. Common types include line perforation, where holes are punched in a straight row; Comb perforation: three sides at once; and Roulette: cut without removing paper. A comb shows a single operation that creates three connected sides, while a roulette appears as short continuous cuts rather than punched holes.

How to examine a stamp

Start by viewing the stamp against a neutral background under a bright lamp or a loupe. Next, place the stamp under a magnifier or use a scanner to create a detailed image. When you scan, include a small scale or ruler in the image and ensure the scanner lid is closed to avoid glare. Look for the shape of holes, whether paper is removed, and whether perforation holes line up across adjoining stamps; these details let you identify the method used.

Practical checks for tricky cases

If edges look blunt or torn, check the back for paper disturbance. For comb-like perforations, inspect three adjacent sides for identical hole placement; the face will often show uniform spacing on those three sides. For roulettes, run a fingernail lightly along the edge—roulette: cut without removing paper—will feel like short cuts rather than punched holes. Record your observations so you can compare multiple stamps.

Recording findings and when to use a tool

Write down the perforation description, whether you used a loupe or scanner, and any measurable counts or patterns. An identifier checklist helps: type of edge (perforated, rouletted, straight-cut), condition, and whether the perforation affects stamp margins. If you want automated assistance after you have done these checks, Stamp Identifier can analyze a scan and suggest likely types based on the image.

Common questions

What is a comb perforation?: A comb perforation is made so that three connected sides are created in one operation. Look for identical hole spacing on three edges of the stamp; this confirms a comb perforation: three sides at once.
How does roulette differ from perforation?: Roulette uses a cutting wheel or blade to make short cuts but leaves the paper in place. You will not see removed paper or round punched holes; instead, the edge shows slits — Roulette: cut without removing paper.
Can I identify perforation with just a scanner?: Yes. A good scanner image lets you examine hole shape and spacing at higher magnification. Include a small ruler in the scan, close the scanner lid to reduce glare, and save the file so you can compare against reference images later.
Will perforation affect stamp value?: Perforation type and condition can affect a stamp's desirability to collectors. Clean, intact perforations that match known issue characteristics generally support value, while torn or altered edges can reduce it.

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