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How to Find Commemorative Postage Stamps

Since the U.S. first issued them in 1893, collecting commemorative postage stamps has become an integral part of philately (stamp collecting). Foreign countries also issue commemoratives too. Unlike definitive stamps which are issued primarily to prepay postage, commemorative stamps, while also valid as postage, are issued to recognize, commemorate, and honor prominent citizens and significant historical events in a nation's history. If you have decided to collect U.S. commemoratives, there are several places where you can locate them. Many can be purchased at face value, and some may even be free for the taking.

Things You'll Need

Local newspaper
Current copy of the Scott, Brookman, Stanley Gibbons, or H.E. Harris stamp catalog

Instructions

- 1
  Check any incoming mail or retained correspondence at your home for canceled stamps. There may be commemorative postage attached to some of the envelopes. If you are collecting postally used commemoratives, this can be a terrific initial source for finding some. If you are unsure if a particular stamp is a commemorative, consult your stamp catalog.
- 2
  Visit your local Post Office. Explain that you wish to purchase some unused commemorative stamps. If you reside in a big city, your main Post Office may have a philatelic window which has been set aside specifically to sell stamps to collectors. While there, you might also wish to pick up a copy of the current USPS philatelic catalog which lists other commemorative stamps and stamp sets that the USPS has for sale.
- 3
  Check your local phone directory for listings of local stamp dealers. Contact one and explain that you wish to purchase either foreign or U.S. commemorative stamps. This is a particularly useful tactic if you are trying to acquire older commemoratives.
- 4
  Check your local newspaper. There may be announcements about an upcoming stamp bourse. A bourse is an assemblage of stamp dealers under one roof. A visit there will give you access to many commemoratives, both foreign and domestic, as well as an opportunity to shop and compare prices. While there, ask if there are any local stamp clubs in your area. Chances are very good that there will be.
- 5
  Visit one or more local stamp clubs. Many clubs regularly hold stamp auctions where you may be able to bid on commemoratives. You may wish to become a member as well.
- 6
  Search the Internet for stamp dealers. Many offer large collections of U.S. and foreign commemoratives, in either new or used condition. This might enable you to make great strides toward completing your collection. The USPS website also offers commemorative stamps and stamp sets for sale to the public.
- 7
  Check with the mailroom attendant where you work. Ask them to set aside any stamped envelopes which arrive. Some may have commemoratives affixed, giving you another method for acquiring used commemoratives for free.

Stamp Collecting