Home >> Collecting >> Stamp Collecting

U.S. Postage Stamp Collecting for Beginners

Collecting stamps is a relaxing hobby that rewards on many levels. Art lovers can get lost in the detailed engraving and printing. The historically-inclined collector may want to learn the stories behind their favorite items, while other philatelists--as stamp collectors are known--may simply enjoy meeting like-minded people. Whatever the motivation, getting started is a matter of desire, and a willingness to learn the basics of stamp collecting.

Sources
- Starting a collection is as simple as saving stamps from letters, packages and postcards. Specializing in a favorite subject--such as art, history, sports, or transportation--is the preferred route, according to stampcollectingbasics.com. Online auction sites, rummage sales and stamp catalogs are also effective ways to track down old or recently-issued stamps that someone else might overlook.
Collecting Methods
- To ensure a long lifespan for their stamps, collectors either keep them in albums, or on loose leaf paper, in a binder. Stamp hinges, glassine strips with gum on one side, are used to "fix" a stamp into the album. Plastic stamp mounts can be pre-cut to a particular stamp's size for a better level of protection.
Features
- Sizable cancellation marks, perforations and tears on a stamp can severely hurt its value. Other factors to consider include the degree of color fading, and centering of the image. Any flaw of that nature can cause a price change of 10 to 70 percent according to 2-clicks-stamps.com. This makes many stamps readily affordable to new collectors. On the downside, many of these stamps are unlikely to increase in value.
Considerations
- Unused stamps in mint condition bring the highest prices on the collector's market. However, there are exceptions to this rule. Stamps issued for limited periods or special occasions often bring significantly higher prices, according to 2-clicks-stamps.com. However, many variations carry little or no real value. To determine the difference, collectors should consult an illustrated stamp guide--which contains images of the stamps and basic pricing information.
Further Resources
- Stamp clubs like the American Philatelic Society are a good resource for new collectors. Librarians and postmasters can provide details about any groups active in a certain area. Further information on stamp clubs and shows can also be found on the U.S. Postal Service's website, usps.com. Click on "The Postal Store" section, followed by the "For Education" and "Resources" links.

Stamp Collecting