History And How-tos Of A Postage Stamp Collection


With the introduction of the first stamp in Britain in 1840, postage stamp collection has been of big interest. That first stamp was the One Penny Black, and depicted Queen Victoria. It had to be cut from its sheet with scissors, instead of being torn along a perforation. Twenty to thirty years later children began collecting stamps, and by the time they became adults, the practice grew into an even larger hobby of many.

There are a variety of different ways to begin a postage stamp collection. Experts suggest that the best way to start is to first contact older people who may have collected stamps themselves throughout the years. Once a collection is in full force, there are catalogs that can be obtained, for purchasing future stamps to add to your collection. Also not to be forgotten is the United States Postal Service. They have a variety of different themes, and their list is changing all the time.

The value of a stamp can be checked a few different ways. The most obvious is by contacting a stamp dealer. He will have many years of knowledge and the proper resources to be able help with this matter. There are also a number of internet sites that can help place the value on a stamp. Once again, a catalog can come in handy here. The price may be off a little bit, but should be pretty close to the actual worth.

A postage stamp collection should be placed in some type of organized album. This can be as simple as just putting them in a three-ring binder, or putting them into a special album that can be purchased at stores or even through the United States Postal Service. When organizing and keeping the collection, the stamps should never be allowed to get wet and direct sunlight should be avoided. Also, care should be taken that the stamps do not get creased or bent.

There are four different types of stamps. Definitive stamps would be the ones that are used to mail most things. These sets usually change every time the postal rates change. Commemorative stamps are issued only for a short time to pay tribute to historical events and people. Special stamps are issued each year, and include "Christmas" and "Love." Lastly, airmail stamps are the type used to send items overseas.

With the limited supplies needed, and the ease of start-up, a postage stamp collection can be a fun hobby for children and adults. It can be as simple or involved as a person wants to make it. The most important thing is to just enjoy it.