Stamp collecting is an accessible hobby suitable for people of all ages. As a beginner, you might consider starting an album featuring stamps that catch your eye.
Enthusiasts who take the hobby more seriously often scrutinize stamps for defects, varieties, and cancellation marks.
While this pastime doesn’t require specific skills and can be enjoyed anytime and anywhere, gaining some knowledge can be beneficial—especially if you’re aiming to build an impressive and potentially valuable collection.
Philatelists, or stamp collectors, gather items connected to postage and mail delivery. While stamps are the primary interest, other collectibles include postal markings, labels, envelopes, and covers.
Some enthusiasts also seek out revenue stamps or special issues like Christmas Seals.
Reasons to Collect Stamps #
There are many motivations for starting a stamp collection, and your personal reasons will shape your approach. For some, it’s a relaxing pastime, enjoying intriguing items that carry a touch of history.
Stamps often display beautiful and diverse imagery, making them enjoyable to view. In this way, philately can be an artistic pursuit, with little concern for the monetary value of one’s collection.
If you see stamp collecting as a potential investment for yourself or future generations, you’ll need to be more selective. Though financially, investing in stocks and bonds might be more prudent, it lacks the enjoyment that philately offers.
For those passionate about history and geography, stamp collecting is ideal.
Many stamps commemorate significant events, and gathering stamps from various countries is an engaging way to learn about global postal systems.
Enthusiasts interested in the deeper aspects of stamp collecting often invest considerable time researching individual stamps, delving into the historical, economic, and political contexts they represent.
Acquiring Your First Stamps #
There are multiple avenues to obtain stamps, and the best method depends on your specific collecting interests. If you’re seeking high-value items, you’ll need to explore the secondary market. Online platforms like eBay and Craigslist often list stamps, and specialized marketplaces such as HipStamp and the American Philatelic Society cater specifically to collectors.
However, if you’re not prepared to spend significant amounts, a simple way to begin is by collecting stamps available from your local post office or those received through your personal mail.
Another approach is to ask friends or neighbors if they can save their used envelopes, allowing you to collect the stamps from them. Businesses often receive large volumes of mail, so consider reaching out to acquaintances who own businesses or work as office managers or administrative assistants.
Specialty shops and hobby stores are also great places to find stamps and related memorabilia. They often offer affordable starter stamps, as well as more expensive and rare items for consideration.
Even if you’re not ready to invest heavily, visiting these stores allows you to examine potential additions in person and gain a better understanding of the hobby. It’s a more personal experience than online browsing, and you might even negotiate prices.
Choosing Between New and Used Stamps #
Whether to collect new or used stamps is a matter of personal preference. While mint stamps (those never used) are generally more valuable, this isn’t always true. Like any market, philately is governed by supply and demand. For certain issues, unused stamps may be plentiful, whereas locating a used stamp from the same era could be quite challenging.
Used stamps have cancellation marks indicating they’ve been processed. Some collectors appreciate the sentimental aspect, knowing the stamp has journeyed through the postal system, perhaps conveying something meaningful.
Nevertheless, many collectors favor stamps in mint condition. Alternatively, you might collect used stamps still attached to their envelopes. Sometimes, the envelope adds value due to the specific context of the correspondence, though a stamp on a contemporary utility bill envelope may not enhance its appeal—at least not for a century or so.
Essential Tools for Stamp Collecting #
Storage and Display: There are various ways to store and showcase your collection. If organization isn’t a priority, basic plastic storage bins suffice. For better organization, consider using index cards and plastic bags. To display your stamps, a binder with appropriate pages can be useful—just ensure you’re using acid-free paper. For wall displays, use stamp mounts and place them within standard picture or scrapbook frames.
Removing Stamps: Typically, stamps can be detached from envelopes by soaking them in cold water for 10 to 15 minutes. Be cautious with stamps that have markings, as the ink may run; it’s advisable to soak these separately.
Correspondence Supplies: Joining a stamp club or trading with other collectors may involve sending handwritten notes. Invest in quality pens, such as felt-tip ones, and stock up on envelopes and interesting postcards.
Magnifying Glass: Due to their small size, stamps often require magnification for detailed viewing. A quality magnifying glass is essential, especially as you advance in philately and need to inspect stamps for defects or unique markings.
Stamp Collecting Resources #
Here is a list of websites where you can find more information about stamp collecting:
- American Philatelic Society (APS)
stamps.org
The largest nonprofit organization for stamp collectors in the U.S., offering resources, events, and educational materials. - National Postal Museum
postalmuseum.si.edu
Part of the Smithsonian Institution, this museum provides online exhibits, collections, and information on postal history and stamps. - Linn’s Stamp News
linns.com
A leading source for news, insights, and articles about stamp collecting and philately. - Stamp Community Forum
stampcommunity.org
An active online forum where collectors discuss stamps, share knowledge, and ask questions. - StampWorld
stampworld.com
A comprehensive online stamp catalog and community for collectors worldwide. - Philatelic Traders’ Society
pts.org
An international organization providing resources and a directory of reputable stamp dealers. - The Royal Philatelic Society London
rpsl.org.uk
The oldest philatelic society in the world, offering research, publications, and events. - Virtual Stamp Club
virtualstampclub.com
A website featuring news, forums, and articles related to stamp collecting. - Canadian Stamp News
canadianstampnews.com
A resource for collectors interested in Canadian stamps and philatelic news. - APS StampStore
stamps.org/stampstore
An online marketplace provided by the American Philatelic Society where collectors can buy and sell stamps.