Stamp Collecting

Stamp Collection -> Worldwide -> Collections, Lots

Building up a stamp collection is a hobby for thousands of people and it is one of the oldest forms of collectibles. For those that are just getting started with their stamp collection, there are a few things to remember to make sure that it goes smoothly.

1. Start with a target

It often helps to have a target in mind when you begin building up your stamp collection. For example, you can set out to collect nothing but French stamps, or you can try to find British stamps that were produced during the reign of Queen Victoria. By picking a narrow target, you can start to see results in less time and you’ll be more motivated to keep working on your stamp collection. This is also a great way to build up a very valuable collection, especially if you are targeting only rare stamps.

2. Buy a proper stamp collection book

In order to keep track of your stamp collection, it is vital to have a book. This will allow you to find stamps that you may be missing, and you will also have a safe place to store your stamps where they won’t be exposed to air and dust. This will help them hold their value longer. It is also neat to see your book being filled up as you increase your stamp collection and this can be a great motivator to keep looking for more stamps.

3. Always be on the lookout for new stamps

You never know when you may come across a rare stamp and it’s a good idea to keep updated on any auctions in your area that may contain these collectibles. Estate sales are another great place to shop and sometimes, you may be able to purchase a stamp collection that has already been put together for you. Other great places to find stamps include second hand stores, antique stores and at online auctions.

4. Stay informed and learn about stamps

In order to be able to build a good stamp collection, you need to have a good idea of the different values of stamps, as well as which ones you may be more interested in. Buy a few books about collecting stamps and subscribe to newsletters and magazines that are devoted to this hobby. You can learn a lot just by reading them and you’ll be able to keep in the loop on new stamp editions, as well as upcoming auctions for rare stamps.

5. Getting children interested in stamp collections

Local post offices sometimes hold stamp drives or encourage people to place used stamps in a box so that children can start their own collections. This is a great hobby for kids, and with a little help, they can start building their own stamp collection while they are still young. Try to find something that they are interested in, and use this as a springboard to help you find stamps that they may enjoy based on these interests.

Originally posted 2008-09-05 14:00:40. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Stamps -> Europe -> France and Colonies

Collectors of stamps that also enjoy history are commonly drawn to French stamps for many different reasons. These are unique items that often depict the struggle for freedom, and the French stamps from the colonies are considered to be very valuable as well as rich in history. If you have never seen a French stamp before, or you are completely new to collecting them, there are a few things you should know.

1. What year is the stamp?

This can have a very big impact on its overall worth. For example, French stamps from the 1800’s are considered to be very rare and will usually depict revolutionary scenes. The Marianne is probably the most popular stamp of this time and although they are not easy to find, if you do see one in good condition, this is the perfect stamp to collect. While there are Marianne’s available from many different eras, the earliest ones are considered to be the most valuable.

Pay special attention to the date of the stamp and if you can’t find it, you may want to ask the seller for more information about them. Typically, the older French stamps will be a little worn or used, and you can generally tell by the vibrancy in color or lack thereof how old the stamp is.

2. Is it an actual French Stamp or a Colony Stamp?

This can have a big impact on the overall value of the stamp. While some collectors prefer to stick the mainland when collecting French stamps, others prefer the colonial versions. Take a look at both and see which one will strike your fancy. Some of the colony stamps are worth a great deal more than regular stamps, but there is no general rule. Rare stamps are always valuable, especially if they are in good condition.

In the later part of the 1800’s the colony stamps would typically have Cerese on the front or the Emperor Napolean III. For the very rare stamps, look for the ones that were produced between the periods of 1859 and 1865. These are hard to find, and will usually have an Eagle and a Crown.

3. How good is the overall condition?

When it comes to figuring out how much a French stamp is actually work, this is usually the deciding factor. Look first for the ones that were never used, since they will typically have the highest value. Next, look for French stamps that were used, but are still in fantastic condition. Stamps with tears or rips are generally worth much less overall and should only be collected by those that aren’t terribly considered about value and are more interested in the history behind the stamp.

Ideally, a French stamp should be in near perfect to good condition, and will still contain the original adhesive or gum. Stamps that have hinges are also considered to be good investments, provided that the hinge is still intact. You can start your search for French stamps online and find some truly remarkable deals.

Originally posted 2008-08-28 14:00:10. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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