1961 & '62 Topps Stamps

RTB

I have stamps and stamp panels from '61 & '62. I know from opening the packs that they all came as panels, 2 stamps with an attached advertising tab. It doesn't seem logical that an individual stamp could be graded near mint or better because it is part of a panel that has been destroyed. Like a checklist card that has been checked with a ballpoint or a trimmed card, it can't be NM no matter the condition of the corners. If I am wrong on this, then should you tear apart the panels to get individual stamps? Will PSA do this for you? What is the best method to tear them apart into a PSA 9? What is the more valuable piece, an intact panel of a star or a "PSA 9" stamp of a torn apart panel? In 1980 Topps basketball cards are 3 panels with perforations for tearing, but these are graded and sold as intact panels. Why is it any differnent with these stamps?

Thanks for reading this and I'd appreciate comments from collectors of these. I haven't graded any of these yet because it's too confusing!

Mantlefan

PSA does indeed grade the stamps individually:






As for value, I haven't seen much difference, except that panels showing 2 superstars [namely the 62 Mantle/Aaron panel] bring higher prices than individual stamps..

curmudgeon

I'd keep 'em as panels, unless one stamp or the tab is noticeabley damaged.

cardfan07

I'd say panels too. There are some player set collectors (Mays for example) that might be interested in single stamps, but also would make a run at panels since they are considered separate in the master set list. That is, if you're selling.
If one is damaged, you're obviously not going to get a great grade, but having the panel and a lower grade might still be advantageous.