Trace Watermark Record For Free

Specialized software or algorithms are utilized to analyze the image and extract the hidden information to detect invisible watermarks. The software decodes and compares the altered pixel values to the watermark data stored in a database or registry.

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The classic, most common piece of equipment that most collectors use to detect watermarks consists of a small black tray about an inch deep, and hydrocarbon fluid that can soak the stamp to reveal the watermark, without affecting the ink, or the gum on the stamp, and which will evaporate off the stamp leaving it dry.

A watermark is a security measure that helps prevent counterfeiting. Not every stamp has a watermark and, in fact, these days very few stamps have watermarks. But for collectors, watermarks still play a big role in organizing, valuing and determining the authenticity of stamps in their collections.

Many watermarks that have been firmly impressed into the stamp paper can be viewed by simply turning the stamp face down and placing it on a dark background, such as the watermark tray, without any fluid on the stamp. This is the fastest way to find a watermark, and it should be the first method you try.

The best method of detecting watermarks is to lay the stamp face down in a dark tray and moisten the stamp with watermark fluid, which brings up the watermark in dark lines against a lighter background. While many collectors use lighter fluid for watermarking, APS recommends commercial watermark fluid.

If you hold an old letter up to a lamp, you might see a filigree of light (in the shape of a crown, a coat of arms or even a unicorn!) appearing in the paper. These are watermarks ? images imprinted in the sheets during paper manufacturing.