How To Begin Coin Collecting

If you're interested in beginning a coin collection there are a few things you should know first off. Whether you want to start collecting for investment purposes or just for fun, coin collecting can be very rewarding, and you don't have to be an expert.

1. When you look at most coins there will be a small letter near the date of production. This letter stands for where the coin was produced. In certain instances, this can make the coin extremely valuable, such as the 1909-S VDB Lincoln head penny. This penny from the year of the new design, features the initials of the designer, Vincent D. Brenner, and often sells for upwards of 00! The letters you may see are:

S-San Francisco

D-Denver

P-Philadelphia

W-West Point

2. But let's say you find a 1909-S VDB for 00 dollars. Why is it so expensive? Probably because of its condition. When a coin is "uncirculated," that means that it is in mint condition. Typically coins have wear and tear after being passed through hundreds and thousands of hands. Uncirculated coins were never damaged because they were never released to the public. There is a Mint State (MS) scale that ranges from 60 to 70. Any coin below a 60 is not uncirculated. Many coins are difficult to find in the 65-70 range, and because they are rare they tend to be very expensive.

3. Proof coins are made differently from normal uncirculated coins. Whereas a normal coin is made with a stamped "die" that pounds the front and back of the metal, proof coin dies are treated with special polish to give them a frosted look on the raised parts of the coin, and a more reflective mirror-clear look in the background of the coin. Furthermore, each coin is struck twice or more by the dies, so that each detail is more pronounced. Because of the extra time it takes to produce a proof coin, they are held to be more valuable than other coins. Proof coins are also rated on a 60-70 scale and are made for coin collectors.

4. Never clean your coins! Any abrasions or marks the coins have may be deepened if you try to use a tarnish remover. Real coin collecting involves finding the coins in their original condition, and if you try to improve that condition, you may wind up hurting the coin.

5. Once you start building a collection, you have to store it properly. There are plastic slabs for your more expensive coins, and coin folders for large scale collections, like pennies and nickels. In either case, storing your coins is the way to keep them safe and clean.

Coin collecting is rewarding and fun. You may see the value of your coins eventually skyrocket, or in the meanwhile, you may stumble upon certain coins that you would have overlooked once before. And you don't need to spend a lot of money to have a nice collection; all it takes is an interest and a desire to be a numismatist (that's Latin, for coin collector). So what are you waiting for? Look through your pockets and start collecting now!

Coin Collecting Merit Badge Type F Khaki Rolled Edge US $8.99

Three Vintage Coin Collecting Books Grading Catalogs and Guides etc US World US $2.99

Coin Collecting software US $14.95

Dictionary Numismatic Terms Symposium Coin Collecting US $7.46

1971 Coin Collecting Booklet Merit Badge Boy Scouts US $10.00

1938 Coin Collecting Tan Merit Badge Series Book BSA US $19.95

DISCONTINUED Girl Scout Junior COLLECTING HOBBIES BADGE Doll Coin Stamp Patch US $4.95

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Coin Collecting Merit Badge Type J Scout Stuff Back US $6.75

Vintage Philadelphia Mint Interior Coining Room Postcard PC Coin Collecting US $7.99

REVISED EDITION BOOK COLLECTING INDIAN PEACE MEDALS $1 US Calumet Dollar Coin US $22.45

Disney Pressed Penny Coin Collecting Book US $10.99

1962 Press Photo Counterfeiting coin collecting US $18.88

Coin Collecting Gray Rim Merit Badge Typ H Plastic Bk US $7.25

Lot 13 93 BOY SCOUT MERIT BADGE BOOKS Coin Stamp Collecting Astronomy Skiing US $29.99

QUARTER COLLECTORS PUZZLE 128 PIECES COIN COLLECTING SLOTS BONUS 24K GOLD COIN US $16.96

7 Comic Coin Collecting Convention Signed Kavich US $7.50

Mechanix Illustrated 3 59 10 Economy Cars Olds 98 Coin Collecting US $7.99

Mechanix Illustrated 5 51 Olds 98 Mercy Flights Coin Collecting US $7.99

1948 AP COFFEE AD RARE COIN COLLECTOR COLLECTING THEME US $5.95

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• Tips To Begin Old Coin Collecting
• Why Coin Collecting is Very Interesting as a Hobby

A Little History Of Stamp Collecting

Stamp collecting, one of the most popular hobbies in the world, is an activity that involves the gathering and organizing of postage stamps and other related items such as covers, that is, packages or envelopes with stamps pasted on them.

The first stamp ever to be issued was of a portrait of a young Queen Victoria in 1840 Britain, called "One Penny Black". By the 1860s, the activity of collecting stamps was already beginning to become a popular pursuit, particularly for children.

Further on into the 1800's, it was named "timbromania", that is, "stamp madness". The activity gained a huge following in Britain and eventually all over Europe and its colonies, so much so that businesses with the sole purpose of providing services for stamp collectors began to come about. These companies often sold stamps as well as supplies related to stamp collecting, such as stamp albums, in which the collected postage stamps are neatly stored.

In the United States, it was the rise in value of the postage stamps issued in the 1920s that provided much publicity and heightened interest on stamp collecting. By the 1930s numerous stamp collectors began to collect postage stamp issues of that decade by the hundreds, in the hope that, similar to the stamps of the previous decade, these too would become of great value in the future. But perhaps because of the high availability of such stamps, the "rarity" factor was lost and to this day, stamps from the 30's are still available at very affordable rates.

The hobby of stamp collecting has also evolved into a much serious and organized activity regarding postage stamps, called philately, which is the study of postage stamps.

Rare postage stamps are perhaps one of the easiest to store and the most transferable investments, and are hence an ideal substitute to collecting artwork or precious jewelry.

With the advent of numerous technological advances such as email and SMS that are gradually making postal service rather obsolete, the creation and use of postage stamps have naturally also decreased dramatically, making it seem as if the hobby of stamp collecting might soon become obsolete as well. This may not be entirely true, however. To begin with, most stamp collectors are often interested in rare, old postage stamps, as opposed to new ones, so the decrease in the usage of postage stamps won't affect the hobby too much. Perhaps some things never change, and stamp collecting, it seems, is, for now at least, here to stay.

Girl Boy Scout Guides Patch Crest STAMP COLLECTING US $1.00

2 Vintage Swap Playing Cards Stamp Collecting Horse US $3.95

Vintage Zippo Collector Stamp Collecting Lighter 1981 Bradford PA US $19.99

STAMP COLLECTING PHILATELY X 13 ONLY PLAYING SWAPCARDS US $1.07

Stamp Collecting software KollectAll Stamps and more US $14.95

Stamp Collecting on Postal Souvenir Sheet From 1936 US $2.76

Excellent 1951 Stamp Collecting Merit Badge Book 1951 US $8.00

STAR WARS Postage Stamp Collecting Kit with original box album and unused seals US $.99

Russia 6 Pocket Calendars Stamps Collecting US $1.00

FLOWERS ON STAMPS Philatelic Collecting Old Postcard US $3.04

Stamp Collecting Diploma Stamp Collector Lover Diploma US $12.95

1945 Hiram Walker Whiskey Ad Stamp Collecting Theme US $5.00

1937 Press Photo Foreign Stamp Collecting US $14.88

Ameripex 86 Stamp Collecting metal stamp replica pin US $3.99

1948 Kentucky Tavern Whiskey Stamp Collecting Print Ad US $9.95

Stamp Collecting Boy Page metal Stamp pin tie tac 2199 US $7.26

US Postal Service Stamp Collecting 1987 print ad 22c cent postage stamps US $9.99

STAMP COLLECTING 100 Personalized Business Cards 0873 US $12.45

2001 National Jamboree SOSSI Stamp Collecting Merit Badge Envelope US $5.99

VINTAGE LETTER OPENER 8 CENT STAMP COLLECTING LUCITE US $14.00

• What Is Collecting – Is It A Hobby Or An Obsession?
• Types of Stamp Collecting Software

Hints On How To Succeed With Canadian Coin Collecting

There are many more people now that are becoming actively involved with Canadian coin collecting than at any time in the past, and one of the reasons for this is that of late Canadian paper money has deflated in value by as much as between twenty-five to thirty percent over a relatively short period of time. This increased interest in Canadian coin collecting has led manufacturers of Canadian coins into making a variety of coins that it is hoped will make up for the loss in value of paper money.

Increase in Value of the Coins

In fact, because many Canadian coins are made from gold, it ensures that by indulging in Canadian coin collecting the value of the collected coins will increase over a period of time. Another reason why people are getting involved in Canadian coin collecting is because these Canadian coins are an excellent example of the history of Canada, and so Canadian coin collecting allows coin collectors to both own a monetary means of exchange as well as own a bit of Canadian history as well.

People from all parts of the world are being intrigued by the prospect of Canadian coin collecting and the reason for this interest is that Canadian coins have a wide diversity and they are expected to offer good value in the times to come. If you are interested in Canadian coin collecting then there are a few tips that are worth following to get the best out of your collection activities.

First off, to succeed at Canadian coin collecting requires that you do your homework before actually beginning to collect your coins. You should be aware of the history of various coins and also the opportunities they provide in making a profit out of selling them in the future.

Second off, try and collect the Canadian coins for free and asking your parents as well as grandparents is a good way of doing so. Though collecting coins is not a complicated activity, getting whatever help that you can will help ensure greater success.

Lastly, the secret of Canadian coin collecting is that this activity should give you much joy and in addition it should also be a fun activity. After all, Canadian coin collecting should be more than simply collecting treasures for the future; it should also be a pleasurable hobby.

It is also necessary to understand Canadian coin collecting prices because the more information you are able to gather in this regard the better off you will be. You can save money and also choose only those Canadian coins that are of sufficiently good value to warrant adding them to your collection.

Coin Collecting Merit Badge Type F Khaki Rolled Edge US $8.99

Three Vintage Coin Collecting Books Grading Catalogs and Guides etc US World US $2.99

Coin Collecting software US $14.95

Dictionary Numismatic Terms Symposium Coin Collecting US $7.46

1971 Coin Collecting Booklet Merit Badge Boy Scouts US $10.00

1938 Coin Collecting Tan Merit Badge Series Book BSA US $19.95

DISCONTINUED Girl Scout Junior COLLECTING HOBBIES BADGE Doll Coin Stamp Patch US $4.95

Coin Collecting Merit Badge New Type w BSA 2010 Back US $9.99

Coin Collecting Merit Badge Type J Scout Stuff Back US $6.75

Vintage Philadelphia Mint Interior Coining Room Postcard PC Coin Collecting US $7.99

REVISED EDITION BOOK COLLECTING INDIAN PEACE MEDALS $1 US Calumet Dollar Coin US $22.45

Disney Pressed Penny Coin Collecting Book US $10.99

1962 Press Photo Counterfeiting coin collecting US $18.88

Coin Collecting Gray Rim Merit Badge Typ H Plastic Bk US $7.25

Lot 13 93 BOY SCOUT MERIT BADGE BOOKS Coin Stamp Collecting Astronomy Skiing US $29.99

QUARTER COLLECTORS PUZZLE 128 PIECES COIN COLLECTING SLOTS BONUS 24K GOLD COIN US $16.96

7 Comic Coin Collecting Convention Signed Kavich US $7.50

Mechanix Illustrated 3 59 10 Economy Cars Olds 98 Coin Collecting US $7.99

Mechanix Illustrated 5 51 Olds 98 Mercy Flights Coin Collecting US $7.99

1948 AP COFFEE AD RARE COIN COLLECTOR COLLECTING THEME US $5.95

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• Why Coin Collecting is Very Interesting as a Hobby
• Why Coin and Stamp Collecting is So Popular

Collecting Fantasy Collectibles as a Hobby

Copyright (c) 2010 Ian Campbell

The world of fantasy collectibles is a very broad church and a fascinating hobby that will keep you engaged for many years. In recent years the fantasy genre has really come to the fore in movies and literature for all ages. The Lord of the Rings films gave a great fillip to a style of movie that had earned itself a name as the province of low-budget nonsense majoring in scantily clad maidens in distress. Buffy the Vampire Slayer introduced a hitherto unseen sophistication and humor to the fantasy world.

Youngsters too have really taken to fantasy in recent years: Harry Potter, the boy wizard has become a world-wide phenomenon and the Twilight films are sparking scenes of fan worship older people will associate with the height of Beatlemania. With the explosive growth of the genre has come a similar explosion in associated memorabilia and collectible items: from film posters to spin-off books and costumes to beautifully realized figurines.

To get started in a fantasy collection is not difficult. Cinemas showing fantasy films will often stock a range of related collectibles too and toy stores and department stores too will have something in stock. Although the main target audience for much of this new fantasy material is young, people of all ages can enjoy collecting fantasy collectibles.

And, if you want to get more serious about your collection and perhaps branch out into collectibles not related to blockbusting film hits you'll want to find some specialist shops. Try your local comic book store which will often stock some of the more hard-to-find collectibles as part of their stock - you may wish to add a fantasy comic book collection to your hobby while you're at it.

Fantasy is particularly well-suited to the internet where you'll find any number of message boards, groups and forums related to particular fantasy franchises and genres as well as swap and sell sites. Although many of these collectibles are sold to be painted by the buyer and played with by children, for your collection to maintain the optimum value it's actually best to keep everything in its original packaging.

E-Bay is just the best known of the auction sites and certainly worth looking through; always bear in mind that many sellers will categorize these potentially valuable items as toys when you're searching. Collecting has turned into a worldwide business for many. What will your next collection hold?

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Collecting The M1 Carbine III Book by J C Harrison US $29.95

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1967 BOTTLE COLLECTORS HANDBOOK by John T Yount EARLY BOTTLE Collecting Book US $4.20

Collecting Edged Weapons of Third Reich Book Major Thomas Johnson 1st Ed 1975 US $15.00

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BOTTLE COLLECTING BOOK DOREEN BECK 1973 US $7.99

BOTTLE COLLECTING BOOK FEROL AUSTEN POOR MAN GUIDE 1971 US $7.99

2 Shell Collecting Books How to Clean ID Where to Find Illustated in Color US $9.95

Collecting Edged Weapons Third Reich Johnson Book Autographed volume IV US $30.00

Collecting Edged Weapons Third Reich Johnson Book Autographed volume IV 2nd Ed US $30.00

1969 1st ed book HISTORY COLLECTING GREEK POTTERY PAINTING FULL color PLATES US $9.99

1969 1st ed book HISTORY COLLECTING POSTERS 77 FULL color PLATES US $9.99

1969 1st ed book HISTORY COLLECTING DECORATIVE IRONWORK FULL color PLATES US $9.99

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1969 1st ed book HISTORY COLLECTING CHINESE BRONZES FULL color PLATES US $9.99

1969 1st ed book HISTORY COLLECTING ART NOUVEAU FULL color PLATES US $9.99

Collecting the Space Race Vintage Retro Collectibles Book 1993 US $24.95

Question by Leslie: What is the best way to get started in Rare Book Collecting?
I read there is a book fair in SanFrancisco next week and I want to go and be somewhat knowledgeable.

Best answer:

Answer by blue
Talk to your local librarian. He/she can give you tips and select some books for you to read about purchasing rare books.

Go on eBay and see which books are receiving high bids.

Go to a used book store and ask the owner for help.

Be prepared to pay both for the book and for an increase in your homeowners insurance.

Give your answer to this question below!

• Are You a Collector Collecting Collectibles?
• Why Coin Collecting is Very Interesting as a Hobby

Using Software To Help With Stamp Collecting

Stamp collecting has been a favorite among hobbyists worldwide. In fact, numerous associations and organizations like the American Philatelic Society and other philatelic societies online and in real life have been devoted to philately by serious hobbyists worldwide. This proves that people's interest in stamp collecting has only been increasing with time thus, the need for databases and organization systems for those who take keen interest in stamp collecting.

A major point in stamp collecting is the rarity and value of the stamp, which is based on certain criteria like print, paper, design, perforation, postal watermarks, country of origin and year. Databases are used to compare a stamp to a collection of stamps to determine its rarity, value and even whether it is genuine. A wide array of information is only important to the practical philatelist to keep him from spending more than what the stamp is actually worth.

In the past, you would have needed a library of stamps and even opinion from postal authorities to determine the value of a stamp. Plus, your collection of stamps is in greater danger of being tampered with every time you check or even look at it because you practically have to haul the whole collection in. Now, thanks to digitalization, stamp collecting not only became more convenient but also fun.

Various stamp collecting software are now available to make stamp compilation and documentation easier. These programs include different stamp databases to compare your stamps with and to get information regarding them. All in just practically a push of a button. EzStamp, a stamp collecting software, includes databases from over a hundred countries. It can also provide SCOTT numbers for you stamps.

SCOTT numbers serve as serial numbers for the stamps. These numbers are based on a stamp catalog published by the Scott Publishing Company each year containing stamps from the US and other countries and the estimated values for each stamp. Every stamp issued by a country has its own unique corresponding Scott number that collectors use in buying selling or trading stamps and even putting some organization into their collections.

Aside from Scott numbers, stamp collecting software sometimes even provide colored images to the collection. The programs can even allow you to sort the stamps and view them according to various characteristics like year or country. It allows you greater control over the collection in no time and even lesser effort. Using these programs, sharing your collection with other enthusiasts is just a piece of cake.

In this time and age, stamp collecting software is something every stamp collector cannot do without.

Girl Boy Scout Guides Patch Crest STAMP COLLECTING US $1.00

2 Vintage Swap Playing Cards Stamp Collecting Horse US $3.95

Vintage Zippo Collector Stamp Collecting Lighter 1981 Bradford PA US $19.99

STAMP COLLECTING PHILATELY X 13 ONLY PLAYING SWAPCARDS US $1.07

Stamp Collecting software KollectAll Stamps and more US $14.95

Stamp Collecting on Postal Souvenir Sheet From 1936 US $2.76

Excellent 1951 Stamp Collecting Merit Badge Book 1951 US $8.00

STAR WARS Postage Stamp Collecting Kit with original box album and unused seals US $.99

Russia 6 Pocket Calendars Stamps Collecting US $1.00

FLOWERS ON STAMPS Philatelic Collecting Old Postcard US $3.04

Stamp Collecting Diploma Stamp Collector Lover Diploma US $12.95

1945 Hiram Walker Whiskey Ad Stamp Collecting Theme US $5.00

1937 Press Photo Foreign Stamp Collecting US $14.88

Ameripex 86 Stamp Collecting metal stamp replica pin US $3.99

1948 Kentucky Tavern Whiskey Stamp Collecting Print Ad US $9.95

Stamp Collecting Boy Page metal Stamp pin tie tac 2199 US $7.26

US Postal Service Stamp Collecting 1987 print ad 22c cent postage stamps US $9.99

STAMP COLLECTING 100 Personalized Business Cards 0873 US $12.45

2001 National Jamboree SOSSI Stamp Collecting Merit Badge Envelope US $5.99

VINTAGE LETTER OPENER 8 CENT STAMP COLLECTING LUCITE US $14.00

• Types of Stamp Collecting Software
• Coin Collecting Software: A Tool To Help You Keep Tabs On Your Collection Of Coins

Different Type Of Stamp Collecting Methods

Stamp collecting, for the uninitiated, is the collection of stamps from around the globe. Technically, it is called a philatelic collection (funny way of naming things, these scientists have). And if you think it's a hobby for kids and weird ones, you'll be surprised at how many people, great and small have been indulging in this hobby for years. It has become serious enough that people are setting up and maintaining organizations that study these postal artifacts with care and respect.

Stamps have a certain amount of history and culture attached to them, and that makes them so fascinating to collect. You are brought face to face with different cultures and different time periods. Browsing though a stamp album is pretty much like browsing through history itself.

And while many hobbies require very expensive equipment, stamp collecting requires inexpensive and readily available equipment to enjoy. You'll be surprised at how easy it is to set up you collection, not to mention straightforward and engaging.

So you've started your own stamp collection, huh? You've invested in tools and albums and are ready and raring to start you stamp collecting career. The only bummer is that you don't know where to get your stamps.

For starting collectors, here are a few sources of collecting stamps to help you build up your stash of postal wonders.

1. Mail - Yes, the oldest and cheapest means of getting stamps is the mail that gets to your mailbox. And while the amount of mail you are receiving may be affected by the advent of the internet and email, mailboxes are still a great way to get stamps. However, you will have to take great care in handling such stamps as you have to learn how to properly soak and mount these stamps for you collection.

Your friends and neighbor are also a good source of stamps. You can tell them of your hobby, and more often than not, they'd be happy to give their unused stamps to you. You may have to instruct them to give you the envelope as it is so that you can properly process the stamps out. Or you may have them cut out the stamp from the envelope - while, of course, leaving a lot of leeway around the stamp.

2. Trading - during your stamp collecting career, you will definitely come across a glut of same stamps. Well, if you have two of the same kind, why not find another stamp enthusiast and swap stamps. Trading stamps is one of the most exciting activities in stamp collecting. It's a great way to meet fellow enthusiasts and a great way to land your hands - I mean stamp tongs (never handle your stamps without them!) on a unique stamp.

But before you consider trading a stamp, you have to examine them if they truly are alike. Some stamps may look alike, but may actually be different. Try looking at the perforation count using a perforation gauge, or at watermarks and fine detail. And to top that, look at every minutiae, including wear, tear, and damage. This will help you assess whether the stamp you are trading is worth trading after all.

You may also trade some of the unique ones in your collection for unique ones that you like better. But that is a trickier and more complicated story.

3. Sellers - there are some that sell stamps either as a collector's item or in bulk. Many collectors have duplicate stamps - just like you. You may be able to get good deals on these stamps especially if they are not rare.

In the case of rare stamps, you will find that they will cost a greater deal of money. If you are starting out in your hobby, you may want to focus on the easier ones to procure before going after the bigger fish.

Some will sell bulk orders of assorted stamps. This is a great way to beef up your collection, especially if you are starting out.

Conclusion

There is a multitude of ways to get your hands on stamps - everyone as exciting as the other. The trick here is to be consistent in your collecting efforts. Try not to pass up on opportunities to get new stamps for your collection. In terms of value and enjoyment, they definitely become more fulfilling as time goes by.

Girl Boy Scout Guides Patch Crest STAMP COLLECTING US $1.00

2 Vintage Swap Playing Cards Stamp Collecting Horse US $3.95

Vintage Zippo Collector Stamp Collecting Lighter 1981 Bradford PA US $19.99

STAMP COLLECTING PHILATELY X 13 ONLY PLAYING SWAPCARDS US $1.07

Stamp Collecting software KollectAll Stamps and more US $14.95

Stamp Collecting on Postal Souvenir Sheet From 1936 US $2.76

Excellent 1951 Stamp Collecting Merit Badge Book 1951 US $8.00

STAR WARS Postage Stamp Collecting Kit with original box album and unused seals US $.99

Russia 6 Pocket Calendars Stamps Collecting US $1.00

FLOWERS ON STAMPS Philatelic Collecting Old Postcard US $3.04

Stamp Collecting Diploma Stamp Collector Lover Diploma US $12.95

1945 Hiram Walker Whiskey Ad Stamp Collecting Theme US $5.00

1937 Press Photo Foreign Stamp Collecting US $14.88

Ameripex 86 Stamp Collecting metal stamp replica pin US $3.99

1948 Kentucky Tavern Whiskey Stamp Collecting Print Ad US $9.95

Stamp Collecting Boy Page metal Stamp pin tie tac 2199 US $7.26

US Postal Service Stamp Collecting 1987 print ad 22c cent postage stamps US $9.99

STAMP COLLECTING 100 Personalized Business Cards 0873 US $12.45

2001 National Jamboree SOSSI Stamp Collecting Merit Badge Envelope US $5.99

VINTAGE LETTER OPENER 8 CENT STAMP COLLECTING LUCITE US $14.00

• Different Type Of Stamp Collecting Companies
• What Is Collecting – Is It A Hobby Or An Obsession?

Making Stamp Collecting Fun

Although most stamp collectors generally indulge in their hobby as a leisurely pastime many of them have do their collection appraised for the sake of curiosity. Appraising stamp collections is a good way to find out the accurate value of a person's stamp collection. Every stamp collector, beginner or advanced is well aware of the fact that every small piece of stamp has a corresponding price. At times the value of one piece of stamp can sum up the price of an entire collector's collection.

In most cases, many stamp collectors have their collections appraised in time for stamp auctions wherein stamp trading is customarily done. Stamp collectors bargain with other stamp collectors using the value of their collection to get a piece that they want from another collector.

On the other appraising stamp collections is also a good way to find out how much a particular stamp is worth. This information will come in handy for stamp collectors who are interested in purchasing a specific piece of stamp. As a buyer, the stamp collector will have a fairly good idea of the price and avoid getting ripped off.

Tips on Stamp Appraisal

Stamp collectors can look up the appraised value of ordinary stamps from stamp catalogs. The appraised value of the stamps reviewed by most catalogs generally takes into consideration the expenses covered by the stamp dealer such as handling and preparation of stamps for resale.

Appraising stamp collections also take into consideration the condition of the stamps owned by the collector. Stamps are generally evaluated according to grade such as poor, good, fine, very fine, and mint. Stamps in mint condition generally get a higher appraisal value compared to stamps that are in poor form. However, there are times wherein stamps appraised as good or fine may also carry a significant value.

Having a stamp collection appraised is essential for collectors that want to buy and sell stamps with other stamp collectors. In some cases, collectors that do not cater to a specific market can sell off some stamps at face value since the appraisal value of these stamps is not so high. However stamp collections appraised, as mint condition pieces will surely fetch a bigger price.

Aside from grade, appraising stamp collections also takes into account the brand new and never-hinged value of a stamp aside from its condition. Additionally, appraising stamp collections also consider the market value of the stamp. The more requests there are for a particular stamp will help boost the value of that particular stamp.

Girl Boy Scout Guides Patch Crest STAMP COLLECTING US $1.00

2 Vintage Swap Playing Cards Stamp Collecting Horse US $3.95

Vintage Zippo Collector Stamp Collecting Lighter 1981 Bradford PA US $19.99

STAMP COLLECTING PHILATELY X 13 ONLY PLAYING SWAPCARDS US $1.07

Stamp Collecting software KollectAll Stamps and more US $14.95

Stamp Collecting on Postal Souvenir Sheet From 1936 US $2.76

Excellent 1951 Stamp Collecting Merit Badge Book 1951 US $8.00

STAR WARS Postage Stamp Collecting Kit with original box album and unused seals US $.99

Russia 6 Pocket Calendars Stamps Collecting US $1.00

FLOWERS ON STAMPS Philatelic Collecting Old Postcard US $3.04

Stamp Collecting Diploma Stamp Collector Lover Diploma US $12.95

1945 Hiram Walker Whiskey Ad Stamp Collecting Theme US $5.00

1937 Press Photo Foreign Stamp Collecting US $14.88

Ameripex 86 Stamp Collecting metal stamp replica pin US $3.99

1948 Kentucky Tavern Whiskey Stamp Collecting Print Ad US $9.95

Stamp Collecting Boy Page metal Stamp pin tie tac 2199 US $7.26

US Postal Service Stamp Collecting 1987 print ad 22c cent postage stamps US $9.99

STAMP COLLECTING 100 Personalized Business Cards 0873 US $12.45

2001 National Jamboree SOSSI Stamp Collecting Merit Badge Envelope US $5.99

VINTAGE LETTER OPENER 8 CENT STAMP COLLECTING LUCITE US $14.00

• Why Coin and Stamp Collecting is So Popular
• What Is Collecting – Is It A Hobby Or An Obsession?

A Couple Of Stamp Collecting Strategies

Stamp collecting is one of the most popular hobbies in the world. In the United States, it has been estimated that over 20 million Americans are into stamp collecting.

Stamp collecting for beginners

Most stamp collectors who are just starting out should just first focus on collecting stamps. They should not be discriminating about the stamps they collect. Sometimes it takes a while for stamp collectors to figure out what type of stamps they want to focus on collecting.

Refer to a stamp catalogue

For those who want more information about stamps, and are curious about the value of the stamps they are collecting, they should get themselves some stamp catalogues. This is where collectors get the lowdown on stamps. A stamp catalogue contains various information about stamps such as its cost, background, history, identification, etc. Often these stamp catalogues are categorized by time period, country, etc. These catalogues can be purchased in stamp shops, and stamp shows.

Make money by selling your stamps

Those who have multiple copies of stamps, or stamps that they do not want could always sell these to stamp collectors or dealers. Since stamp collecting is a serious hobby for most people, chances are that there will always be those who would be interested in acquiring your unwanted stamps. As the saying goes, one man's garbage is another man's treasure.

Stamp should be handled with care

Stamps should be kept in a safe place, such as an album, container, pressed inside clean notebooks etc.

Remember that stamps that are in excellent condition are more valuable that those wrinkled, torn, dirty stamps. So individuals should always handle their stamps with care.

Get stamps from friends, family, stamp clubs

- A great way to get stamps for free is to inform friends and family about your hobby. They might have stamps from old envelopes that contain all kinds of stamps. This is also a great way to get your hands on international stamps.

- Tradings stamps from fellow stamp collectors is also a great way to get new stamps.

-Those who are really enthusiastic about stamp collecting should join a stamp collector's organization, or club. This is a great way to meet other stamp collectors, and be updated with the latest news and events concerning stamp collecting.

Stamp collecting is a wonderful hobby that anyone can get started on today. Individuals can start on their collection by going through their old letters and unearthing stamps that they already have in their possession. Afterwards, they can go to their local hobby shop to get their first bucket of stamps!

Girl Boy Scout Guides Patch Crest STAMP COLLECTING US $1.00

2 Vintage Swap Playing Cards Stamp Collecting Horse US $3.95

Vintage Zippo Collector Stamp Collecting Lighter 1981 Bradford PA US $19.99

STAMP COLLECTING PHILATELY X 13 ONLY PLAYING SWAPCARDS US $1.07

Stamp Collecting software KollectAll Stamps and more US $14.95

Stamp Collecting on Postal Souvenir Sheet From 1936 US $2.76

Excellent 1951 Stamp Collecting Merit Badge Book 1951 US $8.00

STAR WARS Postage Stamp Collecting Kit with original box album and unused seals US $.99

Russia 6 Pocket Calendars Stamps Collecting US $1.00

FLOWERS ON STAMPS Philatelic Collecting Old Postcard US $3.04

Stamp Collecting Diploma Stamp Collector Lover Diploma US $12.95

1945 Hiram Walker Whiskey Ad Stamp Collecting Theme US $5.00

1937 Press Photo Foreign Stamp Collecting US $14.88

Ameripex 86 Stamp Collecting metal stamp replica pin US $3.99

1948 Kentucky Tavern Whiskey Stamp Collecting Print Ad US $9.95

Stamp Collecting Boy Page metal Stamp pin tie tac 2199 US $7.26

US Postal Service Stamp Collecting 1987 print ad 22c cent postage stamps US $9.99

STAMP COLLECTING 100 Personalized Business Cards 0873 US $12.45

2001 National Jamboree SOSSI Stamp Collecting Merit Badge Envelope US $5.99

VINTAGE LETTER OPENER 8 CENT STAMP COLLECTING LUCITE US $14.00

• Why Coin and Stamp Collecting is So Popular
• What Is Collecting – Is It A Hobby Or An Obsession?

Different Type Of Stamp Collecting Companies

You have been bitten by the ol' stamp collecting bug. You have been religiously visiting your local post office for newly issued postage stamps. You have scoured your attic, your mother's house's attic, and your grandmother's house's basement, looking for old letters and their envelopes, as well as postcards and packages, in the hope that one of these days you'll get lucky and find a completely rare stamp.

The problem is, all these activities don't seem to be enough to satisfy your desire to obtain all the rare and special stamps you want to put in your collection.

Another problem, and a slightly more serious one, is that you're not exactly sure how to tell if a stamp is precious or not.

What are you to do?

Enter the stamp collecting company.

Because of the great popularity of stamp collecting, spawning hundreds and thousands, perhaps even millions, of devoted and passionate stamp collectors around the world, quite a number of individuals with a knack for entrepreneurship have gone into the business of serving and satisfying the stamp collecting needs of these collectors. Hence the birth of stamp companies, that is, the company of stamp dealers.

What is a stamp dealer?

Basically, a stamp dealer is an individual who sells collectible postage stamps to serious stamp collectors. Often they also provide catalogues that stamp collectors use to determine the vastness and rarity of their collections.

What other services do stamp collecting companies offer?

Besides selling stamps, stamp collecting companies also perform a variety of services:

1. Organize auctions for collectible stamps. Auctions are a great opportunity for stamp collectors to obtain those rare and utterly valuable stamps that will complete their collections.

2. Prompt appraisals. Stamp dealers are usually experts in determining the value and rarity of stamps. They can provide you a fairly accurate estimate of the worth or your collection

3. Sell your stamp collection at commission, should you decide to part with it.

4. Buy your stamp collection for themselves or the company.

5. Find specific kinds and varieties of stamps upon your request.

6. Provide stamp collectors with new and updates on postage stamp collectibles.  

How do I get hold of a stamp collecting company?

These days, stamp collecting companies have their own websites, and it would only take a click of the mouse and an email for you to get in touch with them. You can also visit the local stamp store, if there's one in your community.

As a reminder, be sure that the stamp collecting company you deal with is one that's trustworthy and credible. It's best to work with dealers that are affiliated with trusted stamp collecting clubs and organizations.

Girl Boy Scout Guides Patch Crest STAMP COLLECTING US $1.00

2 Vintage Swap Playing Cards Stamp Collecting Horse US $3.95

Vintage Zippo Collector Stamp Collecting Lighter 1981 Bradford PA US $19.99

STAMP COLLECTING PHILATELY X 13 ONLY PLAYING SWAPCARDS US $1.07

Stamp Collecting software KollectAll Stamps and more US $14.95

Stamp Collecting on Postal Souvenir Sheet From 1936 US $2.76

Excellent 1951 Stamp Collecting Merit Badge Book 1951 US $8.00

STAR WARS Postage Stamp Collecting Kit with original box album and unused seals US $.99

Russia 6 Pocket Calendars Stamps Collecting US $1.00

FLOWERS ON STAMPS Philatelic Collecting Old Postcard US $3.04

Stamp Collecting Diploma Stamp Collector Lover Diploma US $12.95

1945 Hiram Walker Whiskey Ad Stamp Collecting Theme US $5.00

1937 Press Photo Foreign Stamp Collecting US $14.88

Ameripex 86 Stamp Collecting metal stamp replica pin US $3.99

1948 Kentucky Tavern Whiskey Stamp Collecting Print Ad US $9.95

Stamp Collecting Boy Page metal Stamp pin tie tac 2199 US $7.26

US Postal Service Stamp Collecting 1987 print ad 22c cent postage stamps US $9.99

STAMP COLLECTING 100 Personalized Business Cards 0873 US $12.45

2001 National Jamboree SOSSI Stamp Collecting Merit Badge Envelope US $5.99

VINTAGE LETTER OPENER 8 CENT STAMP COLLECTING LUCITE US $14.00

Rubber hitting the road in green fashion
Two local guys talking over a beer a year ago helped draft B.C.’s first bicycle tire and tube recycling program. It’s expected the bike-rubber retirement program will pull tons of waste from provincial landfills each year.
Read more on Cowichan News Leader Pictorial

• Different Type Of Stamp Collecting Methods
• Why Coin and Stamp Collecting is So Popular

Stamp Collecting for the Novice

A stamp is a small piece of paper that is glued to the envelope whenever a document or a letter is sent via the post office. This is used both locally and internationally as a fee for the service rendered.

There are two ways to send mail. The first is buying postage stamps then sending it using the mail box. The other is going to the nearby postal office and having the postal worker do it.

People have found another thing to do with stamps. Instead of mailing it, some have turned it into a hobby now known as stamp collecting.

Some people mistakenly think that an individual who is known as philately is the proper name for someone who collects stamps. This notion is wrong since this title is for those who study stamps.

Stamp collecting can begin by cutting out the stamps that come from letters the person has received. Some may come locally while others can come from friends and family abroad. Another way to add stamps to the collection is going to the post office and buying it in bulk.

Collecting the stamps can only go so far without the help from other people. The person can ask friends and family members to also give those coming from the letters. There are some who also sell these in bulk. A good place to find these is in the classified ads of the newspaper that can offer the collector a good bargain.

The internet is also a good source to obtain these small objects. There are websites that do the same thing making it easy for those to expand the existing stamp collection.    These are just the regular stamps.

For those who want to specialize in old stamps or want to collect those from other countries, it will be a good idea to join philatelic exhibitions and bid at auctions.  By looking at it closely, the person might be able to find some good deals which will be a good addition to the collection.

Using money to acquire stamps is one way to deal with other collectors. This can also be done by trading what the person has with something of interest that the other collector possesses.

Acquiring stamps is just one of the things that stamp collectors do. The other is taking care of it so that if the person wants to part with it in the future, some money can be made.

The proper way to take care of a stamp is putting it in an album. Only one side per page should be used to avoid destroying or harming the others in the collection. If the collector has no more space, putting a plastic sheet over the stamp will allow the individual to put some stamps on the other side.

Stamps should be handled with care. Since the hands may be dirty or oily, it is a good idea to use tongs when handling it to avoid causing any damage. A tong looks like tweezers but it is not the same thing. The edges of this object are the thinner making it easier to hold a stamp.

The proper way to remove stamps from envelopes is cutting a small portion of the surrounding area and putting it in water. After some time, the collector should use tongs to extract it from the paper underneath, hold it in the air to dry before inserting it in the album.

There are many things that could do harm to the stamps. The most common is sunlight. The hot rays of the sun may change the colors and the gum at the back may stick to the album making it hard to remove. This makes it important to always store it in room temperature.

When working, it will be a good idea to not bring food or drinks in the area since it could damage the stamps. Smokers should also refrain from doing in the room since the smell could be transferred to the collection.

Stamp collecting is a nice hobby that anyone can engage in. This activity is known as one of the most popular in the world. The person should just devote some time and effort in looking out for old and new ones and taking proper care of it.

Girl Boy Scout Guides Patch Crest STAMP COLLECTING US $1.00

2 Vintage Swap Playing Cards Stamp Collecting Horse US $3.95

Vintage Zippo Collector Stamp Collecting Lighter 1981 Bradford PA US $19.99

STAMP COLLECTING PHILATELY X 13 ONLY PLAYING SWAPCARDS US $1.07

Stamp Collecting software KollectAll Stamps and more US $14.95

Stamp Collecting on Postal Souvenir Sheet From 1936 US $2.76

Excellent 1951 Stamp Collecting Merit Badge Book 1951 US $8.00

STAR WARS Postage Stamp Collecting Kit with original box album and unused seals US $.99

Russia 6 Pocket Calendars Stamps Collecting US $1.00

FLOWERS ON STAMPS Philatelic Collecting Old Postcard US $3.04

Stamp Collecting Diploma Stamp Collector Lover Diploma US $12.95

1945 Hiram Walker Whiskey Ad Stamp Collecting Theme US $5.00

1937 Press Photo Foreign Stamp Collecting US $14.88

Ameripex 86 Stamp Collecting metal stamp replica pin US $3.99

1948 Kentucky Tavern Whiskey Stamp Collecting Print Ad US $9.95

Stamp Collecting Boy Page metal Stamp pin tie tac 2199 US $7.26

US Postal Service Stamp Collecting 1987 print ad 22c cent postage stamps US $9.99

STAMP COLLECTING 100 Personalized Business Cards 0873 US $12.45

2001 National Jamboree SOSSI Stamp Collecting Merit Badge Envelope US $5.99

VINTAGE LETTER OPENER 8 CENT STAMP COLLECTING LUCITE US $14.00

I first collected stamps back in the early 1980's when I was in third grade. The came .00 a bag still on paper. I went nuts! Off and on until 7th grade, my allowance and Christmas and Birthday money went to stamps. But, in the 6th grade, tragedy struck! In an attempt to take the stamps out of the old book and put them in a new one, they were destroyed! I had to start over again! This is my second collection, from about 6th to 8th grade. Then, my interests went on to comic books, and the stamps were forgotten. I found them along with my comic books in the attic a few weeks ago. I'll put up the comics as well later.
Video Rating: 4 / 5

• Why Coin and Stamp Collecting is So Popular
• What Is Collecting – Is It A Hobby Or An Obsession?