Mauritius Stamps
Stamp collecting is one of the largest and most popular hobby that all types of people do these days. So with this being one of the most popular hobbies, where and how can you buy stamps for stamp collections? There are many different ways to buy stamps but one of the first items that you may want to purchase to assist you with the collection process and what to look for when collecting would be a guide book. You can purchase the guide book anywhere where books are sold such as a discount store, bookstore, or online. With the guide book in hand, you can be assured that you are getting a great deal.
Let us look at where and how we can buy stamps online. There are several websites, but one of the best would be ebay. Ebay is an online marketplace where people list their items for sale and where a buyer can come in and bid on the item. Here you can bid on the stamp collections and find really great deals. Your guide book will also list some places online where to buy stamp collections. There are also Auction Houses where you can bid online. How do you purchase stamps and stamp collections online through an Auction House? You can order an online catalog to be mailed to your house, and then there is a schedule available on the website where the auction will be held. You can place a bid on an item before the bidding starts and then just as you were in person, you can bid higher or stop bidding on that stamp you are interested in. There are also websites that buy, sell and trade stamp collections as well.
One other way that you can buy stamp collections are at local shops in your area. The advantage to this is that if you are a novice stamp collector, you can examine the stamp in person. This can work to your advantage if you are interested in purchasing pricier stamps. There are also stamp shows across the country where you can find a large amount of dealers in one location, and you can buy, sell and even trade your stamps. Your guide book will tell you how you can find a listing of the dates and location of these types of shows. One last place where you can find stamps are through your friends and family. Especially your older relatives may have some great stamps that may be worth a bunch of money. These days it doesn't really matter if there is a post mark on it.
Stamp collecting is a fun hobby for all ages, the young and the old, female or male. The great thing about stamp collecting is the hunt of finding that one that will complete your collection.
Photo Credits: Effervescing Elephant
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Posted by Collectible Stamp on September 3, 2010 in
Selling and Buying Stamps, Stamp Collecting, Stamp Collection
Posta Romana - Stingray
With all of the options of items to invest in stamps are one of the most unique and promising for the person with expertise and knowledge of the area.
Stamp collecting is a hobby that anyone can choose to do, but with proper knowledge and research, you can turn that collection hobby into an investment. With the passing of time stamps can both gain and lose value according to what is happening in the world, and how many years have passed since a stamp has been released. The value of a stamp comes both with its release date, and the picture and price depicted on the stamps. While the majority of stamps are only worth face value, if not a couple dollars more, there are a select few that are worth in the higher thousands of dollars.
When looking to invest in stamps you want to start out smart by purchasing a guide that depicts the value of the most popular and common stamps. There are several guides on the market, and they can all be purchased online for a decent price. Once you have a guide you can begin looking through the stamps and notice any trends in value and picture depiction in correlation with age.
Armed with a guide that explains the value of the most common and most rare stamps, you can begin making purchased based on the guide and the trends presented. When purchasing stamps you can find great aid in internet access to specialty and auctioneer websites. Buying at the right time, the right stamp, at the right value is all key in making a sound investment, so play it smart and be sure to buy when you know you can make a dollar.
New stamps are always being produced, so investing in stamps can include both the older stamps with the newer ones. Taking notes on what makes a stamp expensive, looking into avoiding any counterfeit purchases, and paying the right price on each stamp you buy, can all lead to money making through stamp investment.
Overall investing in stamps is not that different from investing in any other tangible item, other than you may have to play the waiting game for several years for a stamp to rise up in value, rather than several weeks or months with a typical stock investment. In the end for the stamp enthusiast who knows what to buy and what to pass up on, investing in stamps is a sound investment that can bring hundreds, even thousands of dollars in prosperous rewards.
Photo Credits: karen horton
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Posted by Collectible Stamp on September 2, 2010 in
Rare Stamps, Stamp Collecting
Deutsche Post
Once you have selected the stamps to be soaked there are certain guidelines you should follow in order to take them off the envelope with minimal damage. The first thing to do when soaking stamps is to trim the edges. Be sure to leave approximately a quarter of inch of paper around the edge. Do not cut the stamp or its perforations. After you do the soaking it is important to remember that the stamp will be weak when it’s moist. The following part of the article will deal with a simple and basic way to soak stamps.
The first step is to get a container and fill it with water. What type of water will depend on the stamp. If it is a self adhesive stamp then hot water should be used. If the stamp is on manila or colored envelopes, then cool water should be used. If it is regular stamps being soaked glued on plain envelopes, then lukewarm water will do. Next put some of the stamps in the bowl. You should not put more that 15-20 stamps at a time. The reason why few stamps are done at a time is because they may clump together. Of course if you are using a large container then more stamps can be put. If the stamps are on colored paper then putting fewer stamps in the water the better.
Leave the stamps in the water until they get unstuck by themselves. This may only happen after changing the water a few times. The important thing is the water must stay clean. As soon as the stamp detaches from the envelope, take out the envelope from the water. If it is a colored envelope the color runoff from soaking stamps may stain the stamp. After you take out the stamp carefully rinse them in some clean water. Be prepared with a separate bowl of clean water to do this. Self adhesive stamps are generally the most stubborn. They can take up to 25 minutes before detaching from the paper. Sometimes they may not detach at all so be prepared for this.
Once the stamps have been taken out of the clean bowl of water you should dry them by putting them face down. For this part it is better to use a clean and colorless object such as a paper towel. You should also only dry one layer of stamps at a time. Do not stack them on top of each other. After you have done all this the stamps will be ready for flattening.
Photo Credits: Heptagon
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Posted by Collectible Stamp on September 1, 2010 in
Stamp Collecting, Tips and Tricks, Used Stamps
Used Stamps
If you are fascinated with stamps and the thrill of collecting, and are looking into starting a stamp collection of your own, then check out the below guide on how to start a used stamp collection.
Collecting stamps is a relaxing and enjoyable hobby that can fulfill a need to purchase without having you spending hundreds of dollars a month. When looking to start a stamp collection the first thing you want to do is purchase a binder or portfolio to house the stamps in. The great thing about a binder is that you can purchase custom made plastic inlays that allow you to keep the stamps safe between two sheets of plastic, while letting you view the front and back of the stamps at the same time.
After you have a binder or place to keep the stamp collection safe in, you can begin your collection by setting up a budget for your stamps. The great thing about stamps is that they are relatively inexpensive which allows even someone on a budget to avidly collect. With a budget in set and a place to securely house your collection, you can either turn to the internet with auctioneer and specialty websites, or turn to your local post office to make your first purchase.
When making purchases of stamps you can benefit yourself by looking up the value of a stamp before you buy with either a search in a search engine, or with a stamp collectors value guide. Either method is great for finding out how much a stamp is worth, and can lead you to make secure purchases for your used stamp collection.
Once you have a collection started you want to make sure that you keep it properly maintained with arrangement and cleaning of the stamps and the collection. When cleaning your collection you want to get rid of all dust and possible moisture from your binder housing, and make sure to rearrange your stamps in their place to assure they don't become victim to staleness.
Overall starting a used stamp collection is a relatively simple and inexpensive process that nearly any adult or child can accomplish. Start with the purchase of a place to keep the stamps, keep the stamp keeper in a safe place, and then begin filling your keeper with purchased stamps and watch your collection grow with each purchase. Maintaining a clean collection and keeping the stamps away from possible harm, and there you have it, a simple way to start a used stamp collection.
Photo Credits: evil nickname
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Posted by Collectible Stamp on August 31, 2010 in
Stamp Collection, Used Stamps
Italy World Cup Soccer Stamp - 1934
Many time's the owner of a stamp collection is not aware of the true value of his or her collection and must seek the advice of a skilled stamp collection appraiser. Appraisers are experts who will examine a collection and give a written estimate of it's value.
A list of Stamp Collection Appraisers is always a good item to have because it give's the owner of the collection the opportunity to get various opinions from more than one source about the collections value. That's not to say that all appraisers will miss inform you, but, most appraisers are indeed stamp collectors themselves and make a living by buying and selling stamps and some will offer to pay you as little as possible for your collection.
A stamp collection can be brought and sold above or below the price that's listed in the stamp catalog. That decision is completely determined by the collector, however appraisers determine market value by using criteria such as, 'What condition is the collection in?', 'How has it been stored?' and 'Did the collector spend a lot of money establishing his collection?' These are just a few ways, there are many more that the appraiser uses to determine value.
Within your list of stamp collection appraisers should include those who are members of The American Philatelic Society. These appraisers adhere to a strict code of ethics and will generally give you an honest appraisal.Here's a list of a few very reputable Stamp collection Appraisers.
The American Stamp Dealer's Association (ASDA): Appraisal fees vary depending on the size of the collection.
The Mystic Stamp Company: A very reputable company with over 35 years experience valuing and buying stamps.
The American Philatelic Society: Excellent company will well established code of ethics, will appraise some collections for free.
If you are a stamp collector seeking to know the true value of your collection, the three companies listed above are all excellent choices for you to consider. Always remember that there are those out there who are only interested in lining their pockets with your hard earned money and if they can do that by cheating you out of your stamp collection, they will. Remember to always have a list of stamp collection appraisers, so you will always know the true value of your collection.
Photo Credits: karen horton
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Posted by Collectible Stamp on August 30, 2010 in
Insuring Stamps and Collections, Stamp Collecting, Stamp Collection
Stamps
Stamp blogs are important for those who are interested in the topic or who are heavy stamp collectors. Not only can you get tips for trading stamps and networking with other traders, but you can increase your visibility by commenting on blogs and looking for sound advice. Here are the top 10 great stamp blogs:
Stamp Collecting Blog by Keijo Kortelainen- This blog originated from Keijo in Finland. The author mixes wit and humor when it comes to learning about postage stamps. She writes about her favorite stamps and the type of designs she likes. One of the most useful information she puts on her site is reviews on different types of stamps, like the 'Norma 2010' Specialized Catalog of Finnish Stamps review she did last July. This author deserves to be a part of the top 10 great stamp blogs list.
Philatelic Tidbits- This general stamp blog goes into the world of stamp-collecting. Some of the authors topics include an in-depth analysis of old postage stamps. The author also mixes stamp collecting with philanthropy topics.
Stamps Blog- this blog is dedicated to understanding the current state of stamp collecting. The administrator/author collects information such as statistics and facts about the infamous hobby of collecting postage stamps.
The Stamp Addict Blog- The author of this blog is not known, however the topics are great; the blogger mixes in every day talk of Facebook and modern activities along with information about stamp events including detailed photos of stamp collections.
Stamp Lists- This blog site is more like a news/blog that provides country listings of various stamps and also free resources for finding out stamp values.
The Stamp Collecting Round-Up- Don Schilling Glendale is a member of the American Philatelic Society, the Glendale Stamp Club and Bunker Hill Stamp Club. His blog is a great resource for updates on stamps, stamp collecting and postal operations.
eGlobals Stamp Collecting Blog- This blog keeps all of the stamp collectors up-to-date on stamp news and trends. Here, collectors can learn about selling stamps, rare stamps, software and estimated stamp value. They really deserve to grace the great stamp blogs list.
2 Clicks Stamps- This blog will let collectors know about the history of postage stamps and the art of stamp collecting.
E-Stamps Net- This blog is for those who really love stamps and appreciate stampless covers.
Stamp Collectors Corner- Here, collector can learn about rare stamp collections that are available on the market.
What stamp blogs do you visit?
Photo Credits: Pixteca MX【ツ】
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Posted by Collectible Stamp on August 29, 2010 in
Philately, Stamp Collecting
Bird Stamps
Stamp collecting or philately is considered a great hobby not only for kids but also for the older people. Such people may have a profound interest to compile various kinds of stamps on their album. Stamp collecting can be viewed not just as a hobby but also as a mode of collecting information. A stamp may feature different kinds of things ranging from famous personalities to historical events.
You can search for a stamp collection auction if you wish to sell or add to your stamp collection. Many people are eager to make profits from their unique stamp collection. The price value of a unique stamp may be very high depending on the limited version of release or its rare nature. Such stamps can be bought from stamp collection auctions easily. You can for instance become a member of the Stamp Auction Network, which is the number one place to find auction calendars, stamp auction catalogs, images of stamps, prices realized and lots more! Bidding is also virtually free and easy at Stamp Auction Network. You can sell your collection outright or consign it to an appropriate auction house.
You can find out about a stamp collection auction in your area by browsing through local newspapers or philatelic magazines. By going to an auction, you may easily come across stamp collectors who want to buy some of your stamps to complete or add to their collection. Magazines and newspapers also carry advertisements asking for special or rare varieties of stamps. The internet is a good thing to make use of, because you can join auction sales online to sell your stamps at a higher price. You can compare the prices offered from present advertisements online and get the best price for your stamp.
Finding a stamp collection auction is all the easier when you join gatherings or clubs and interact with people who share the same passion. In this way, you can also meet people who are collecting items just like you. You can also trade some of your stamps for a particular stamp that you have been looking for.
Last but not the least, a stamp collector must always be on the lookout for important announcements related to stamp exhibitions or auctions. He should also be in a position to care for his stamps well because they are extremely sensitive. They are not just pieces of paper but products having profound value and importance.
Photo Credits: sleepyneko
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Posted by Collectible Stamp on August 28, 2010 in
Selling and Buying Stamps, Stamp Collecting
Stamp Stock Book
If you are a stamp collector in search of a way to house and display your stamps, then check out the modern and eccentric methods below of display.
When looking into stamp collecting and stamps in general your first priority is to make sure the stamps are properly maintained in their collection place. Once you have assured that the place they are stored in is not going to cause any damage you can begin taking a look into the display methods for your stamps.
The first and most common way to display stamps is through a binder or portfolio with clear inlays that allow you to place the stamps in between two sheets of plastic-like wrap that both protect the stamps, while allowing them to be seen both front and back. This is a great way to display your stamps because the binder method allows for easy removal and placement of stamps, as well as a compact setting for your stamps to be housed. The only downside to using a binder to display your stamps is that some stamps may not fit in right with the plastic inlays, so you may end up having to cut the inlays or purchase custom ones for a proper collection and display.
Aside from the common binder method of displaying your stamps, if you are an avid collector with a well built collection, you can choose to do a more unique approach of display. A display case for your collection is a great way to keep the stamps safe in a stable environment. The most common type of display case is similar to the plastic inlays, in that the case will have several compartments for the stamps to be housed in, and can be opened and closed with a snapping motion. The more modern display cases can be as simple as to be a plastic case that houses a single stamp, or as ornate as to be made of glass that encases thousands of stamps and is placed upon a wall for decoration.
When looking to display your stamps, the choice on how ornate or how basic a housing unit is, is all up to you, your personal preferences, and most importantly your budget. The larger your collection becomes the more eccentric you may like to go with your collection, but in the end whether you choose a plastic binder with inlays, or a glass wall, displaying your stamps is a personal choice and the method you choose is all up to you.
Photo Credits: cilesfineline
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Posted by Collectible Stamp on August 27, 2010 in
Stamp Collecting, Stamp Organization
Kids and Stamp Collecting
Collecting stamps can be a fun, easy, and fulfilling hobby. Many collectors started out by simply collecting stamps from letters that either they or their parents received in the mail. Eventually, most stamp collectors find a specific collection type.
There are three basic types of stamp collecting. You can collect stamps from a specific country; maybe one you have visited or have a special interest in. Another type of collecting is by date. This can be a specific date that is special to you or by a special event. You can also collect by themes. Examples would be animals, flowers, or trains.
Before you start collecting, there are a few tools that will help you to take proper care of your collection and make it more enjoyable. Stamp tweezers are a special tool used to handle stamps. Even if you wash your hands, your stamps can become damaged from the oils on your hands. A magnifying glass will give you a better look at your collection. Hinges are small folded pieces of paper with glue on one side. These will allow you to remove your stamps later without damaging them. A stamp catalog lists all of the stamps that have ever been made. It may help you to get an idea on what type of stamps you want to collect. Glassine envelopes are special envelopes that can protect your stamps until you are ready to mount them. In addition to these basic tools, you will also need a place to mount your stamps to keep them protected.
A stamp album is a special album used to collect stamps. Stamp albums have pictures of all the stamps made. With a stamp album, you just simply match your stamp to the picture of the stamp in the album. You can also use a stock book. A stock book contains a heavy card material that will keep your stamps safe. This is better than a regular notebook. The pages in a notebook are too thin to protect your stamps. The card stock will keep your stamps from getting creases or bend in them. Stock books also allow you to arrange your stamps however you want.
You will find more enjoyment in your collection if you take the time to organize it. There are lost of fun and different ways to organize your collection. You can organize it by date, theme, or you can create a story line with your stamps. While organizing your stamps, be sure to take into consideration the size, shape, and color of your stamps. You may want to take the time to arrange them before actually mounting them in your book. This way, you can rearrange them easier. Once you have them arranged in a way that you like, you can mount them in your book. You also might want to take the time to write a small bit of information about your stamp. This can be done either by writing directly in the book or by typing it on the computer and then pasting the strip to your book.
Before you can mount your stamps, it is important to know how to properly remove them from an envelope. The most common method used is called soaking. To start, you will want to cut the envelope as close to the stamp as possible. Be careful to not cut the stamp. It's also a good idea to separate out the ones on colored envelopes. The reason is that the dye from the envelope can ruin your other stamps. Next, place your stamp face up in a shallow bowl of warm water. After several minutes, the stamp will separate from the envelope. Never force it off. This can damage the stamp. Now you can remove the stamp from the water with your tweezers. Place your stamps between two clean paper towels. Then, place a heavy book on top of them so that they dry flat. Leave them to dry overnight. The next morning, they will be ready to mount.
Starting a stamp collection is easy and fun. Once you have started, you will want to share it. Sharing your collection with people you love is the only thing more fun than actually collecting! Have fun collecting!
Photo Credits: Dan Harrelson
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Posted by Collectible Stamp on August 26, 2010 in
Stamp Collecting
List of Stamps
When it comes to creating stamp records for all you stamp collectors, it can be a daunting process, but good news for you there is new software available for your computer to make creating stamp records easier, so that you can organize and keep track of all of your collectible stamps with a few quick clicks of your mouse. This software even has the ability to search the web to find all those hard to find stamps that you have been looking everywhere for.
With the advancement of technology, creating stamp records has become a simple process that nearly anyone can do. This newly developed technology allows collectors easily to keep track of all the collectible stamps that they have and easily find new ones that they have been looking for. The software has a complete database that has numerous stamps and plate number coils.
The software allows the collector the ability to search for stamps based on a number of different criteria ranging from the year of issue, the topic of the stamp, a key word or even by denomination. Once you find a stamp that you have been looking for all you need to do is click the stamp and it enters all of the stamp information into your database and saves the collector a lot of time while creating your stamp records by keeping you from having to enter all of the data yourself.
This software will allow you to create comprehensive inventory lists; it will help you easily create want lists, or even lists of stamps that you are selling. Everything that a stamp collector would need or want is built into this software to help make stamp collecting a much simpler task. The software has numerous other things that will make your life easier, like built in color guides and a built in watermark detectors.
When it comes to stamp collecting and creating stamp records, having software to help you with all of your endeavors is necessary. With this software, a collector can build a record of their entire collection in complete detail with just a few keystrokes. Then you can use the information collected to make a variety of different reports and valuations, which you can sort, in a numerous amount of ways. The bottom line is that if you are a stamp collector and you do not have stamp-collecting software, you should definitely look into the many options you have to make your life as a stamp collector easier on you and a lot less time consuming.
Photo Credits: perpetualplum
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Posted by Collectible Stamp on August 25, 2010 in
Stamp Collecting, Stamp Organization
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