Stamp Collecting Guide

Starting a stamp collection can be an easy and relaxing pastime. Whether you are interested in building a stamp collection for pure enjoyment or you are interested in possibly building a collection for value, read on for tips to get started.

One of the best advantages to starting a stamp collection is the fact that it does not need to be expensive to do so. There are many different themes and types of stamps that you can collect; however, many people simply begin by collecting the stamps they enjoy the most; whether that happens to be stamps with a particular design or stamps from a specific country.

If you are operating on a low budget, you may wish to begin your stamp collection with used stamps. While certainly many collections are based on unused stamps that are purchased in the post office, there are also many collections that are based solely on used or canceled stamps. Your own mailbox can be a great place to begin looking for stamps for your collection. Consider asking friends and family members as well. Since most people throw away the envelopes from their mail when they are finished with them anyway, this can be an excellent source of new stamps for your stamp collection.
In addition, let people who write to you or send greeting cards to you on a regular basis know that you are beginning a stamp collection and ask them to use commemorative stamps on their mailings to you.

Another great way to start your stamp collection is to obtain stamps from stamp auctions. Today stamp auctions can be readily found both online and offline. Everything from packets, to mixtures as well as individual stamps, covers and entire collections can be found at stamp auctions. The key to bidding at a stamp auction, regardless of whether it is online or offline, is to make sure you have done your homework first so you can make an educated bid. Be sure you understand the terms of sale before ever placing that first bid. If you’re not sure about something it is perfectly permissible to ask question before bidding starts.

It is also a good idea to make connections with other collectors, particularly those who have been collecting for awhile. These individuals may have duplicates which they would be willing to share with you in order to help a fellow philatelist get a start with their stamp collection.

Attending a stamp show can also be a great way to start or even expand your stamp collection in addition to gaining useful information about stamp collecting as a whole. One of the great things about a stamp show is that regardless of where you live you can generally be sure there will be a stamp show taking place within a close proximity. Here you will find a variety of dealers and exhibits.

If you have chosen to collect stamps from a specific country, consider attaining a pen pal from the country that interests you. Not only will you increase your sources for stamps for your collection but most likely strike up a lifelong friendship as well.

Along the same lines, a stamp club can also be a good resource for additions to your budding stamp collection. It is often possible to obtain stamps from these clubs rather inexpensively.

Of course, it should also be noted that you can always purchase stamps from your local postal service as well. If you have decided to base your stamp collection on only new stamps this is an excellent resource.

Finally, don’t forget to consider trading off any duplicate stamps you may have in your stamp collection for new stamps. This is a good way to help someone else as well as a very affordable way to expand your own stamp collection.