A lot of people decide to take up stamp collecting as a hobby across the world and it continues to be a popular pastime. With many thousands of examples to choose from it can take years to build up an extensive collection. There are a few things that will determine their value and those who collect rare postage stamps will do many hours of research before buying.
The first stamps that were issued were the penny blacks in Britain in the mid 19th century and featured a portrait of the queen on a black background. A mint example of this stamp would command a huge sum of money if it came up for sale but they are scarce. Many stamps from later periods and from other countries also fetch huge amounts when they are offered for sale.
A lot of philatelists will focus on one particular type of stamp and will seek out examples to add to their collection. First day covers, animals, birds and insects are all a popular choice for many. Others may decide to look for examples featuring modes of transport, famous faces or sporting themed stamps. Other items that can be valuable are misprints and examples where errors have been made when in production.
Postage stamps are usually sold according to a grading system which is recognized by philatelists and the grades range from poor to extra fine. A poor stamp is one which is badly worn, damaged or soiled and not in very good condition. Extra fine means it is a perfect example and these are the most desirable ones for most serious collectors.
If you are planning to take up the hobby you will need a few items to manage your collection and keep it in good condition. A book will be needed to display and organize your stamps and you will need a magnifying glass to look at the fine detail on some examples. A pair of tongs or tweezers will also be needed to avoid touching the stamp with your bare hands and damaging it.
When you are looking to buy a stamp to start or add to a collection there are a few options. Dealers are a great place to find examples and also auction houses in your area. The internet has become more popular for buyers in recent years too. Buying privately is also an option and a great way to meet fellow collectors.
When you are thinking of starting a stamp collection or buying to improve an existing one there is a little homework to be done to avoid costly errors. Many examples of postage stamp have an extremely high value and so they are often forged and offered for sale as the genuine article. If you choose to buy privately it is advisable to get any potential purchases authenticated by an expert before buying.
Any valuable collection of rare items should always be insured against any theft, loss or damages and this is the case with a stamp collection. Your standard home insurance policy will not be enough to cover any claims so alternative cover should be found. Specialized firms are available to insure your collection and it is worth getting some quotes from these companies and getting cover in place.
The first stamps that were issued were the penny blacks in Britain in the mid 19th century and featured a portrait of the queen on a black background. A mint example of this stamp would command a huge sum of money if it came up for sale but they are scarce. Many stamps from later periods and from other countries also fetch huge amounts when they are offered for sale.
A lot of philatelists will focus on one particular type of stamp and will seek out examples to add to their collection. First day covers, animals, birds and insects are all a popular choice for many. Others may decide to look for examples featuring modes of transport, famous faces or sporting themed stamps. Other items that can be valuable are misprints and examples where errors have been made when in production.
Postage stamps are usually sold according to a grading system which is recognized by philatelists and the grades range from poor to extra fine. A poor stamp is one which is badly worn, damaged or soiled and not in very good condition. Extra fine means it is a perfect example and these are the most desirable ones for most serious collectors.
If you are planning to take up the hobby you will need a few items to manage your collection and keep it in good condition. A book will be needed to display and organize your stamps and you will need a magnifying glass to look at the fine detail on some examples. A pair of tongs or tweezers will also be needed to avoid touching the stamp with your bare hands and damaging it.
When you are looking to buy a stamp to start or add to a collection there are a few options. Dealers are a great place to find examples and also auction houses in your area. The internet has become more popular for buyers in recent years too. Buying privately is also an option and a great way to meet fellow collectors.
When you are thinking of starting a stamp collection or buying to improve an existing one there is a little homework to be done to avoid costly errors. Many examples of postage stamp have an extremely high value and so they are often forged and offered for sale as the genuine article. If you choose to buy privately it is advisable to get any potential purchases authenticated by an expert before buying.
Any valuable collection of rare items should always be insured against any theft, loss or damages and this is the case with a stamp collection. Your standard home insurance policy will not be enough to cover any claims so alternative cover should be found. Specialized firms are available to insure your collection and it is worth getting some quotes from these companies and getting cover in place.
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