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

Post from: Collectors Trove

A Little History Of Stamp Collecting

There are many reasons to start a stamp collection.  For one, there is the primal urge to collect things.  Others attach a romance to acquiring postage stamps, its historical association, its many shapes, colors and designs, the mental adventures into to far-away lands, or simply the love of things from an older age.  For this reason, some collectors don't stress financial investments in stamps, but concentrate on free stamp collection.

Free stamp collections are, as the name implies, are stamps free of charge.  You have this from collecting used stamps to getting free stamps from known sources.

The most common way of starting a stamp collection is by saving the postage stamps from foreign mail that one receives.  However, you quickly graduate from this manner of acquiring stamps when the collection is under way because it is not methodical.  

You can find free stamps from old mail at home or your parents' attic. Ask friends and relatives to keep cancelled stamps.

With free stamps, you'll very frequently encounter used stamps that are still attached to envelopes and packages.  Here's how to remove them:

1.Using a pair of scissors, cut around the stamp, taking care not to cut the stamp itself.             

2.In a bowl of lukewarm water, dip the stamp facedown for a few minutes.               

3.The stamp could detach from the envelope and sink.  Otherwise, gently peel it away using small tongs or tweezers.                    
4.Rinse out the back of the stamp to remove the remaining glue off, and place facedown on a paper towel to dry.      

5.Press any wrinkled stamps it in a heavy book to flatten them.

Whatever the reason for collecting, the most effective way by getting as many types of stamps as possible.  From there you can decide where you're more interested in and decide on your specialty.

However, just because it's a free stamp collection doesn't mean it has to be hodge-podge.  Any collection needs to be organized properly.  With your first stamp collection you'll learn the practical basics of philately.  With the aid of a catalogue, you can arrange your stamps in an inexpensive stamp album, according to country of origin and date of issue, or specific themes.

Following are some interesting examples of collection themes:

·Afghanistan' Anti-malaria postage stamps    

·Fungi stamps                      

·Defense stamps from India             

·Elvis stamps from all over the world             

·Stamps depicting endangered species

·Stamps canceled in your hometown          

·Stamps from countries that no longer exist

With such an organization, you find lots of entertainment and fulfillment in a free stamp collection.

Girl Boy Scout Guides Patch Crest STAMP COLLECTING US $1.00

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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

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FLOWERS ON STAMPS Philatelic Collecting Old Postcard US $3.04

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1945 Hiram Walker Whiskey Ad Stamp Collecting Theme US $5.00

1937 Press Photo Foreign Stamp Collecting US $14.88

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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

Post from: Collectors Trove

Getting Started With A Free Stamp Collection

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.

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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

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

VINTAGE LETTER OPENER 8 CENT STAMP COLLECTING LUCITE US $14.00

Post from: Collectors Trove

Using Software To Help With Stamp Collecting

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.

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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

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

VINTAGE LETTER OPENER 8 CENT STAMP COLLECTING LUCITE US $14.00

Post from: Collectors Trove

Different Type Of Stamp Collecting Methods

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

Post from: Collectors Trove

Making Stamp Collecting Fun

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!

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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

Post from: Collectors Trove

A Couple Of Stamp Collecting Strategies

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

Post from: Collectors Trove

Different Type Of Stamp Collecting Companies

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

Post from: Collectors Trove

Stamp Collecting for the Novice

The traditional way of compiling of stamp collections requires more effort in arranging and distributing the types of stamps. The most common tool that is used to organize a stamp collection is the album list. Today, there are software that can easily help a collector in filing, securing, detecting, upgrading, and providing information about the stamps. These software are now used to make the collection easier to manage. There are many software that are now advertised in the market. Here are some of them.

1.  StampManage 2006 can catalog and file all stamps that came from Canada, USA, and UK. This software can contain 30,000 stamps in its database and can feature 21,200 images. These are all compiled in Scott numbering system. This numbering system is standardized and was introduced by the SCOTT Company. They provided the license to StampManage to practice this kind of numbering system. The 2006 latest edition now features an integrated report designer that has the ability to document personal reports. These Reports can be transferred through HTML, PDF, and Excel.

2.  The Stamp Organizer Deluxe software can recover and view all information about a stamp. The software shows great efficiency and accessibility to gather all information in a compiled data. The stamps could be arranged in various ways. The collector has his options on how he can organize his collection using this software.

3.  The Stamp Collection Wizard 1.04 can create personal records and accumulate reports about the stamps origin, price value and other informative data. A collector may enjoy the benefit of being updated and informed using the stamp collection database of the program. It has also the capacity to store and track the price value and the date of all special stamps.

4.  The Report Label Wizard can easily determine and print various kinds of reports listed on this software. There are specific sets of wizard catalogs that allow a user to determine the report category. The stamps can be defined according to color, graphics, size, perforation, and margins. He may also outline the report using headers and footers. To save any of these program settings, he may index it using templates.

5.  Customized Display Data Software can set any settings displayed on the windows regardless of the size and amount of data information. A collector has the option to choose from what type of size, color, and font to use in compiling the collection in the organizer. He may change the information on the data entry controls by determining the customize reports on the program.

6.  Stamp Collector Professional 3.0S can compile and arrange all personal stamp collections. This program helps a collector to have an organized compilation of those special and rare stamps that may have a good price value. It also identifies and shows all records and information about the date issuance, place of origin, characteristics, theme, and the price value of the stamp.

7.  The Specialized Data Fields Controls can speed up any new entry records on the database. It can also create new command responses related to the data entry. Any graphical features are scanned from the List Box program, which also sets up a particular element from the first category of characters. This software also features a Date Field calendar, Email Field Integrated, and a Data Field with calculator.

8.  The Organized Deluxe Designer can modify and upgrade the structure of any stamp. Similar to other organizer programs, it has the functionality to determine different kinds of data fields where a user would like to store huge number of compilations.

9.  The StampManage Canada 2005 specializes on stamps that came from Canada. This program catalogs and files all information about Canadian stamps. It has a special software that determines all Canadian and provincial stamp data that features images and report data fields about the compiled information.

10.  The Web ready View Page Software can update and read all record fields on a section basis. Ha may display his file collection of stamps from the database to the web page of the site. They can be featured with complete background images using the browse page to edit all the necessary information that he may add on the web page.  

Most software for stamps offer flexible functions and database files that can store and compile stamp collections. They can easily help a person on how to use the functionality of the software. His own style of arrangement and categorical summary will depend on how he can have organized sets of collection in a particular software.

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

Beginner's Stamp Collecting Fun Kit: Everything You Need to Start a Fun and Fascinating Hobby
A perfect introduction for novices — and fun for all! — this mega-set provides everything a beginner needs: • An illustrated...

Stamp Album Stockbook by Lighthouse 32-Black Page Stamp Stock book LS2/16 Black
This stamp album stockbook is black hard cover with gold lettering and features a rigid binding. The stamp album stockbook exterio...

Blue Mauritius: The Hunt for the World's Most Valuable Stamps
The dramatic tale of the world’s most sought-after stamp and the passionate story of the first stamp hunters In September 1847, ...

Stamp Investing
Newly revised and updated. The essential guide to profit in stamp investing. Veteran dealer Stephen R. Datz draws upon decades of ...

Post from: Collectors Trove

Types of Stamp Collecting Software

Stamp collecting is a hobby which is loved worldwide. In the United States alone, there is an estimated 20 million stamp collectors. It is a long tradition that has continued and will continue to exist.

Why is stamp collecting so popular? It is a hobby that doesn't need many expensive tools or equipments. However, there are some basic tools that a collector must have to be able to further enjoy collecting and preserve the stamp in good condition. These tools are usually inexpensive and can be purchased easily. Here are some of the supplies for stamp collecting:

Albums

These albums are very significant in the whole stamp collecting hobby because it secures the stamps and allow the collector to be able to organize the stamp collection and at the same time display them in an attention-grabbing way.

One must be able to know what kind of albums to use for his stamp collection. A good stamp album would have thick pages which can hold a lot of handling and stress. It must also have ample space for the stamps so as not to get them too crowded. The binding of the album must be sturdy and strong to hold the pages more effectively. Last, but not the least, the pages must be acid-free.

Mounts and Hinges

The small rectangular pieces of gum-coated paper or glassine are called stamp hinges. They are used to attach the stamps to the pages of the stamp album. They work like ordinary door or cabinet hinges. These hinges do not cost very much. In fact, one can purchase a thousand of them while spending only a few dollars.

Another tool can be used to attach the stamp into the stamp album pages, this is the stamp mount. Unlike stamp hinges, stamp mounts do not damage the gum of the stamp. Mounts have sleeves where the stamps are inserted, therefore eliminating the need to attach the stamp to a gum-coated hinge. These mounts costs more than the stamp hinges and are usually used to hold the more expensive kinds of stamps.

Tongs

These are comparable to ordinary tweezers. These tongs are usually made from plastic or stainless steel. They are used for handling the stamp to prevent damaging it. Using tongs for expensive stamps is a must because a simple touch can destroy or decrease the value of a stamp.

Magnifying glass

In collecting stamps, one of the greatest thrills is examining the items. A magnifying glass is needed in order to effectively assess the stamp at hand. This will allow a collector to spot certain tears, damages or errors on stamps.

Envelopes

Thin translucent envelopes made of glassine come in different sized and are used for storing and sorting the stamps before they are placed in the stamp album. These can also be useful in mailing the stamps to other people.

Watermark Detector

This will allow a collector to see the embossed pattern that was printed on the stamp which indicates the time when the stamp was made. Although not all stamps are embossed with watermarks, having a watermark detector sure is handy.

Catalogs

These are good references for one to be able to assess the value of his stamps. Usually, these catalogs give some useful information or interesting facts about certain stamps which they feature.

The world of stamp collecting is an exciting and wonderful one. Stamps tell the story of the world and its history. Having the proper stamp collecting supplies can make the whole experience of stamp collecting more intense and fun.

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

Lot of 100 Pieces Worldwide Collectible Stamp Collection
Worldwide Stamps is this lot of 100 smaller regular issue STAMPS dated from the late1800's til 1990's. I will keep these as differ...

U.S. Stamp Collecting Kit for Beginners (English and English Edition)
A perfect introduction for novices — and fun for all! — this mega-set provides everything a beginner needs:• An illustrated ...

Encyclopedia of United States Stamps and Stamp Collecting
The Encyclopedia of United States Stamps and Stamp Collecting, introduces the collector to the full scope of United States stamps ...

Stamp It!: The Ultimate Stamp Collecting Activity Book
Collect stamps from far-away countries and stamps about famous people, places, and things. Stamp It! is filled with tons of inform...

Post from: Collectors Trove

Supplies You’ll Need for Stamp Collecting