Collecting Rare Postage Stamps As A Hobby

By Tara Daniels


People have been collecting rare postage stamps for as long as stamps have been in circulation. A very popular hobby, there are enthusiasts of a variety of ages all over the world. It is the most popular of all hobbies and offers endless possibilities for collectors across the globe.

Having the proper equipment to begin a collection is very inexpensive. A simple album or albums to keep and display specimens in is a must to help protect them from damage due to folding and from the stamps sticking to others. Many people use tweezers or small tongs to handle specimens to avoid damaging them, to keep oils from the fingers from permeating them, and to stop the sticky side from adhering to the fingers. Having a magnifying glass on hand is a good idea as it can be used to view the intricate detail, and to find printing flaws that may make a stamp rare.

Items for a collection can be acquired in many ways. Nowadays, it is easy to deal online to buy and sell to other collectors. It also offers a great way to deal with people all over the world, broadening horizons for acquiring specimens that might not be found easily otherwise.

Historical stamps are a very popular and sought after item. There are a dizzying number of different kinds and sizes with people, animals and scenes on them. Some have never been used while others have been found circulated from different places as postage. Some people collect only one kind, horses, for example. Others have many different types within the same collection.

Some intricate stamps are overproduced in some countries simply for the purpose of being part of the hobby. Their production exceeds the needs for actual postage and then they are sold all over the world as uncirculated specimens. It is a popular habit with serious collectors to obtain these and add them to their albums.

There are a number of ways to build up a collection fairly quickly. Asking people to save the envelopes that their mail comes in is a good start, and is an inexpensive solution to having an array of examples. Duplicates can be sold or traded for other desirable ones. Visiting a local shop that specializes in the hobby is another way to find more. These sops may also provide the opportunity to sell items that are no longer wanted.

Becoming a member of a club is interesting and is also a fun way to meet others who are a part of this hobby. There are also many collectors clubs online that allow members to interact with others and most provide a buy and sell area for people. This can be a super way to connect with people all over the world, or to find people close by who share the same interest and deal with the on a personal level.

The fun and enjoyable hobby of collecting rare postage stamps is a very old and popular pastime. Adding new items to a collection is simple and easy once one knows where to look. Once immersed in this hobby, collectors will find there are many other enthusiasts sharing their enjoyment.




About the Author: