A Beginners Guide to Stamp Collecting

Author

Don Schilling
July 20, 2024

Six Suggestions for Beginning Stamp Collectors….

1. Choose a Theme:

  • Start with what interests you: Do you love animals, history, or space? Focus on a theme that excites you.

  • Consider your budget: Some stamps are rare and expensive, while others are readily available.

  • Think about your goals:** Do you want to build a comprehensive collection or focus on a specific country or era?

2. Acquire Stamps:

  • Start small: Don't feel pressured to buy expensive collections. Begin with a few stamps that catch your eye.

  • Explore different sources:

             * Post Offices: Buy new stamps directly from the post office.

             * Online Retailers: Websites like eBay and Amazon offer a wide variety of stamps.

             * Stamp Dealers: Local stamp dealers can provide expert advice and offer unique finds.

            * Stamp Shows: Attend local stamp shows to meet collectors and find rare treasures.

3. Organize Your Collection:

  • Storage:Use stamp albums, stock books, or even simple envelopes to keep your stamps organized.

  • Categorization: Sort your stamps by country, theme, or year.

  • Labeling:Use labels or write directly on the album pages to identify each stamp.

4. Learn About Stamps:

  • Read books and articles: There are many resources available to help you learn about stamp history, identification, and values.

  • Join a stamp club: Connect with other collectors, share knowledge, and learn from experienced enthusiasts.

  • Online resources:Websites like the American Philatelic Society offer valuable information and forums for discussion.

5. Enjoy the Journey:

  • Don't be afraid to experiment: Try different themes, explore different sources, and learn as you go. There are no rules.

  • Be patient: Building a collection takes time and effort.

  • Have fun! Stamp collecting is a rewarding hobby that can provide a lifetime of enjoyment.

6.Get the Right Tools:

  • Have a Magnifying Glass: Start with a simple magnifying glass to examine the details of your stamps. You'll be amazed at the intricate designs and hidden stories they reveal!

  • Have a Good Pair Stamps Tongs: It’s not a good idea to ever touch stamps with your hands. Oil and dirt can damage both the front and back of a stamp - especially if it is mint (unused). Don’t use anything with sharp points that could put a hole in the stamp or rip/tear it.

  • For more tool suggestions, go to; https://shorter.me/yfV6p