Stamp Collecting

Many aspiring stamp hobby collectors end up wondering if it would be possible to get rich through the collection of stamps. The truth is, no, you are not likely to turn a stamp hobby into a million dollar endeavor. Most philatelic stamp hobbyists are never going to become rich from their stamp collections. Rather, most of these collectors are going to collect simply based on the sheer joy of having their collection as well as the thrill that is associated with searching for each individual stamp. Some philatelic stamp hobby collectors get a thrill from the beauty associated with the finished collection, and they also derive joy from the camaraderie that is associated with meeting other collectors. Having said that, it is also important to know that yes, some stamps are valuable.

According to Stamps.org, for example, the 1857 3 skilling stamp from the Banco Yellow of Sweden has a catalog value which is $2,000,000. The United States 1868 1 cent Z Grill stamp is reported to have sold for a value of $935,000 in the year 1988. Assuming that you do not own one of these million dollar stamps, how much is your stamp hobby worth?

Many stamps are only worth equal to their face value or less. Some, however, are worth more. A stamp’s value is going to be based on a number of factors, including the age of the stamp, the rarity of the stamp, whether the stamp is new or used and the condition of the stamp.

• Older stamps tend to be worth more value than newer stamps. The most valuable stamps are older than 40 years of age.
• How many of the stamp is currently in circulation? A stamp that is limited edition in nature is going to be worth more than a stamp that was released in mass circulation. If there are ten or less of a stamp, it may be truly valuable.
• New and unused stamps are worth more than stamps that have already been used on a piece of mail.
• Stamps that are in excellent condition will be worth more than stamps that are in poor condition. You should be checking for imperfections such as color problems, brightness problems, ink smears and tears in the stamp.

In order to value your stamp hobby, you should buy a book that lists the stamps and their values. Make sure that you are figuring in the condition of your stamp when using these valuation books. You also need to take care to be as objective as you possibly can. Only a professional is going to b able to give you an exact answer on the value of your stamps, but these books are also quite helpful. Check online or in your yellow pages to find a professional stamp appraiser if you want to know what your stamp hobby is really worth.

Photo Credits: karen horton

Originally posted 2009-07-26 05:35:28. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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When people are just starting out, the idea of stamp collecting can be relatively confusing. This is because it can be difficult for starters to distinguish regular stamps from valuable ones. Collecting stamps is a truly enjoyable hobby, however, so many more serious collectors recommend that the best possible way to start out collecting stamps is simply to do so in a hobby sense. In other words, when you are beginning collecting stamps as a hobby, I would be wise for you to choose the stamps that appeal to you on a visual basis rather than attempting to purchase stamps simply because they appear to be valuable. When you dive into the world of collecting stamps as a hobbyist rather than as a serious collector, that is when you can learn how to participate in stamp collecting without feeling the pressure of the investment aspect of the game.

Depending on what type of stamp collection you are seeking, collecting stamps can easily become an expensive and time intensive hobby, but it does not need to be! Many hobby shops and stamp dealers offer stamp packets that come at a reasonable price, allowing for people to begin their collection on a quick start basis. Initially, individuals should become their stamp collections with a broad range of different stamps, giving themselves a good opportunity to see all of the various types and designs that are made available. It is vital that collectors learn how to develop their own unique taste, building a collection on their personal preferences so that they can best enjoy their collection.

A great way to jump start your stamp collecting endeavor is to jump online and use internet resources to your fullest ability. You can purchase a stamp price book that will help you begin exploring the basic values of different stamps. It will be also helpful if you can find ways to connect with other people who are collecting stamps, especially online or through community groups. A small amount of guidance in the world of collecting stamps can really go a long way in preparing you for the arena around you. When you collect stamps, if you are collecting for value, you should leave the stamp on the paper because it allows the stamp to be preserved. If you are collecting purely for entertainment and hobby value, then you may want to have a stamp album that you can stick your stamps in. If you are not sure what purpose you are collecting for, preserving the integrity of the stamps by keeping their backs on is definitely advisable.

Above all else, if you are feeling overwhelmed with the entire endeavor, there is never anything wrong with asking for help. There are plenty of knowledgeable people online and in the community that can help you get started. Asking for help is definitely going to be better than doing something wrong and potentially harming a valuable stamp in the process.

Photo Credits: paladinsf

Originally posted 2009-06-30 05:07:09. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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