A forgery of one of Hannover's first stamps.
So you have your new stamp, and you're ready to mount it, but you find out its fake! How can you find out beforehand whether the stamp you want to buy is real, or fake? What are some warning signs? Should you always take your questions to an appraiser?
There are a few types of fake stamps, and it helps to know the difference. One is just a simple fake stamp, which are real stamps altered to look like a more valuable stamp. Forged stamps are stamps that are created to fool collectors, and counterfeit stamps are those that are made to defraud collectors.
One way to protect yourself is to become familiar with the popular type of fake stamps out there. Knowing what the most commonly fake stamps are may help you not to buy one. Remember, if a stamp is selling for a price that is too good to be true, it probably is. Always have stamps with high asking prices appraised before you buy.
Fake stamps have hallmarks, though, and a few of them are easy to spot. For example, regumming is common often because the gum has degraded due to poor preservation. If there are different colors of gum on the back of a stamp, it's likely the stamp's a forgery. If for some reason you can't look at the back of the stamp, you can also look for stamp curling, thinning, or sharp perforation tips. Replacing torn bits is common, too, but that can be spotted by looking for an application of a false cancel mark over the area. Usually, though, stamps are altered by putting perforations on the edges of real stamps that originally didn't have any. Use a magnifying glass to look for misaligned holes or even misshapen holes.
There are other less obvious ways to fake it, like cancels and overprints. Knowing correct dates is helpful, and being able to compare the stamp to other cancels or overprints will help you figure out what's going on with your stamp. Sometimes cancels are painted in, and discrepancies with printing are also a clue.
The best way to make sure your stamp is not a fake, though, is to have it examined by a reputable appraiser who's an expert on your stamp type. Some imperfections can only be found under high powered microscopes or scanners, so if you're not sure, call an appraiser.
Photo Credits: NobbiP
Originally posted 2010-08-15 03:25:12.
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Posted by Collectible Stamp on May 22, 2013 in
Fake Stamps, Stamp Collecting, Tips and Tricks
Is stamp collecting for you?
The famous stamp depicts Queen Victoria. The birth of the postage stamp brought with it a hobby that would grow in popularity to epic proportion.
Stamp collecting is one of the most popular hobbies in the world. Collectors range from the casual, who collect for sheer enjoyment, to the serious, amassing huge collections with significant monetary value. Locating rare stamps can be as thrilling for some as hunting lost treasure or going on safari.
Casual collectors generally get their start by saving stamps from letters. They can be easily removed from envelopes by soaking them in warm water and placing between two paper towels to dry. These collectors will look for Commemorative Stamps which tend to be more colorful, like the Love stamp or a holiday issue. They may pick a common theme to collect like animals, nature, or sports. Some exclusively collect stamps depicting famous athletes, musicians, or actors.
Rare stamp collectors are not as likely to search for used stamps as they carry a lower value than those in “mint†condition. These collectors are on the lookout for old stamps, stamps with printing errors, or those that hold a high catalog value. While these collectors truly enjoy stamp collecting, they are also attempting to build a tangible asset that can be sold, preserved, or handed down to future generations.
Stamp collecting can be a solitary hobby and many collectors enjoy the relaxation and quiet of working with their hands. For others, the ability to share their hobby with others is a great advantage. There are Stamp Clubs located across the world where collectors can meet, share their finds, and enjoy the company of people with similar interests. Stamp Shows are also a major draw and allow collectors to buy, sell, and view collections of all varieties.
One reason the hobby of stamp collecting has stood the test of time is the fact that it takes very little investment to start collecting. An album and photo corners, tongs, and a magnifying glass are the only real requirements. More serious collectors will also keep transparent protective envelopes and watermark fluid on hand. A perforation gauge will measure the perforation marks on a stamp to help in identifying its value, and of course a catalog with current pricing and identification are helpful.
Photo Credits: hellobo
Originally posted 2010-07-31 03:42:37.
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Posted by Collectible Stamp on May 22, 2013 in
Philately, Stamp Collecting
Where do you sell your stamps?
If you are a stamp collector who has a built up collection ready to sell, or an investor who buys and sells for profit and are looking for a place to list your stamp collection for sale online, then check out the below process for finding a well fit place.
The first thing you want to do when looking for a place to list your stamp collection for sale online is to determine whether you want it placed in an auctioneer website, or sold for a set price at another location. After that decision has been made you can continue on your path to sell by searching for the perfect place in a search engine.
If you decide to sell in an auctioneer website you can go about searching in a search engine for the most popular ones and check out their listing fees and see what forms of payment you can receive. Ebay is by far the most commonly used auctioneer website with buyers and sellers from all over the world, so if you are looking to get the most exposure to your collection, then that website is going to be your best option in form of auctioneer. There are however auctions that have online listings that specialize in collectibles, so checking with those and seeing their basic information for comparison is a great way to find the best place online to list your stamp collection for sale.
Aside from the all to common auctioneer websites, you can check out specialty websites that focus on buying and selling collectibles for a set price. With these types of websites you can check into selling either locally with a website like Craigslist and online classifieds, or to people from all over the world with non auction collectible listings. When looking to sell stamps online you want to get the most exposure, as to allow you to get the price you are asking, so taking both the local and global route is a recommended path to take when selling online.
Overall if you have a stamp collection you are looking to sell online, check out the auctioneer and the specialty websites available to you. When selling online it is important to have your collection properly described and appraised, as well as to check into the legitimacy of the buyer assuring a clear payment before you send them any form of your collection.
Photo Credits: kevindooley
Originally posted 2010-08-18 03:49:29.
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Posted by Collectible Stamp on May 22, 2013 in
Selling and Buying Stamps, Stamp Collection
Stamp Collection Preservation
If you are an avid stamp collector well on your way to forming a personalized collection, then check out how to care for your stamps as your collection grows.
The first thing you want to do when looking to get involved in stamp collecting is to make sure you have an area designated for each and every piece. A binder or a notebook with clear plastic placers is a perfect example of a baseline protective area for your stamps, but really anything that has room to house your stamps and not damage them can be used.
After you have an area created to house your stamps, you want to turn your attention to placement of each piece. Whenever you add a piece to your collection, you want to note its measurements and how well it will fit in your designated area. It is important that when forming your collection that you make space for each stamp to fit in, and take note of the possibility of adding a whole roll or row of stamps. Whenever you are adding to your collection, you want to make sure that the stamps aren't damaged in their placement, and if you have to fold a row to fit in, that you fold on one of the crease lines between stamps. It is recommended to keep all stamps in as pristine condition as possible, so if the option to not fold is available, take that method of placement.
With the collection well placed in a safe area, you want to make sure you monitor and clean out your collection from time to time. Going through your collection, and making sure that each piece is properly placed and that no damage has occurred to the collection is important when caring for your stamps. Every so often you may have the need to rearrange your stamps in order to keep them fitting well in your collection, this is normal and can be beneficial to the care of your stamps to help with keeping up the cleanliness of the collection, and to avoid allowing the stamps to sit in one place for too long.
Overall, caring for your stamps incorporates an attention to detail, and proper placement, but as long as you create a safe place for your stamp collection to grow, and monitor each and every page from time to time, you will find yourself with a well kept highly maintained collection.
Photo Credits: itchys
Originally posted 2010-07-24 03:36:21.
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Posted by Collectible Stamp on May 22, 2013 in
Preservation and Maintenance, Stamp Collection, Stamp Organization
Stamps on Envelopes
Stamp collecting is not only an interesting hobby but an intriguing and educational one too. The greatest significance of stamp collecting is its historical importance and understanding of different cultures. Philately is not really an expensive hobby. There are stamps that cost from tens of dollars to thousands of dollars. It depends on the rarity of stamp, its importance in history and politics, the condition of stamps and various other factors. In the online stamp market, hundreds of worthy stamps are churned out everyday. You can add them to your collection of US and world stamps. Several sites offer an online stamp collection price guide; and there you can get a glimpse of the rarest stamps and learn how to compare the rates between same kinds of stamps.
A serious philatelist will understand the true value of stamps and how they should be priced. However, new hobbyists and collectors need the help of an online stamp collection price guide to ensure that any stamp stores do not dupe them. Once you get into one of these sites, they have a list of stamps and their prices based on the year they were produced. You can also read some interesting stories and facts about these stamps in the online stamp collection guide. These guides are also very helpful in providing translation for all those stamps from non-English speaking countries. Online stamp collection price guide is very crucial to evaluate the grade and condition of the stamps you are about to sell or buy. It depends on the condition of the stamp, whether there are rips or tears in it, the colors in the stamp and how far they have faded, the hinge marks, where the image is placed on the stamp and so on.
Did you know that stamp collecting is an investment that will reap great rewards later on? Prices of stamp are bound to rise; so if you have a unique and rare set, then its going to fetch you a fortune. For that, however you should know the true value of your stamp collection and make sure there are no duplicates in it. If you regularly keep track of an online stamp collection price guide, then you will know how much to earn from it. When you plan to earn money through your stamps, then there are certain conditions of which you should be aware. The most important factor of them all however, is the rarity of those stamps. Availability and age of stamps comes next in the priority list, the origin of the stamps should not be forgotten and it is a matter of great importance whether your stamp is in mint condition or used.
Photo Credits: DRB62
Originally posted 2010-09-05 03:44:01.
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Posted by Collectible Stamp on May 21, 2013 in
Stamp Collecting, Stamp Collecting Tools
Stamp Exhibit
Stamp collecting is fun for beginners and collectors alike, and going to a stamp exhibit can spark a new interest in the art of stamp collecting. At an exhibit you can view exhibits from other collectors, buy stamps and trinkets to add to your collection and network with other collectors and collaborate.
Attending a Stamp Exhibit
Attending a stamp exhibit is an excellent way to introduce you to the world of stamp collecting and shop the mall of stamp emporiums. Hard to find stamps can be found, discounted supplies, rare and out of date stamps from different themes and time periods. The first thing you want to do when attending a show is to go to the registration table and pick up whatever they have, a schedule of events, souvenir cards etc. The schedule shows schedule of events, meetings, exhibit titles, and vendors. This will come in handy when you’re walking around to different locations. Also while at registration ask to put your name on a mailing list this way you can be informed of all upcoming events and shows in your area.
Types of Exhibits
There are so many types of exhibits at a stamp show, that it takes all day to drink it all in. There are traditional exhibits where the stamps tell a story about the history of a stamp or stamp series, the artwork, production and usage of the stamp. There are divisional exhibits that may deal with postal stationary, documents, illustrated mail etc. There are also single frame and youth exhibits. A single frame exhibit usually involves one frame that consists of up to 16 pages of one stamp type. Then there is the youth exhibits which may consist of one or multiple frames of any division type.
Conclusion
There are stamp exhibits that take place just about every week all around the country and they are filed with curious consumers, collectors and enthusiast from all around the world. Attending a Stamp exhibit is a great way for beginners and experienced alike to meet mingle and purchase rare stamps and stamps that cannot be found anywhere else. These shows offer a smorgasbord of stamps for the most avid collector and it is a treat for the eyes, the soul and the pocket. There are so many deals to be found and sites to see that anyone that goes should have an adventurous time. So go and enjoy yourself.
Photo Credits: by fusion-of-horizons
Originally posted 2010-08-23 03:41:27.
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Posted by Collectible Stamp on May 21, 2013 in
Stamp Show
Stamp and Coin Shop
There is a method that is used when it comes to figuring out how to find the right stamp dealer. Stamp dealers are able to help you make the big jump from a typical stamp collector to a serious stamp investor. There are multiple dealers in the business, but they are not all created equal. Most stamp dealers are devoted to collecting rare and valuable stamps. It can take years to come up with a great stamp collection. Most dealers are up-to-date with trends and certain stamp values.
Most stamp dealers can either be an actual person or tied to a company. Either way, they are both in the business of selling stamps. They also buy stamps from other collectors. A stamp investor must develop a professional relationship with their dealer in order to learn about rare postage stamps. This is essential for creating an investment stamp portfolio with substance and value. Most dealers are honest and will not try to scam you by pretending that fake postage stamps are authentic. When wondering how to find the right stamp dealer, an investor must be on their toes and look for red flags. Bad stamp dealers will be disorganized and doesn't make the selling prices run smoothly for their buyers. Good dealers will make sure they pre-sort their postage stamps based on the country, condition, etc. Most dealers will sell postage stamps in bulk.
When looking for a quality stamp dealer, it is important to visit stamp shows and join stamp associations to network with the right people. Roaming around in auction sites and free classified ads online can increase your chances of finding a reputable stamp dealer. Most philatelists who have been in the industry for a long time of selling and buying stamps can also give you recommendations. Most stamp catalogues have a list of dealers. Telephone directories such as the Yellow Pages, also have a detailed listed based on location. Reputable dealers will make sure to set up an appointment before doing transactions. Extra precaution is needed when shopping for stamps over the Internet. Stamp dealers do not just sells stamps. They also sell other items such as covers. Most of the time, they should offer these products at a premium rate.
These same dealers will often issue catalogues where other collectors can find stamps they want to buy. When wondering how to find the right stamp collection, the collector must also realize they can sell their own collection book if desired to certain dealers.
Photo Credits: sludgegulper
Originally posted 2010-08-01 03:49:54.
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Posted by Collectible Stamp on May 21, 2013 in
Selling and Buying Stamps, Stamp Collecting, Tips and Tricks
Romanian stamps
Stamp collectors all recognize the words “stamp showâ€; many of us get excited over them. But how can you make the most out of your stamp show visit?
The answer is simple, short and sweet: preparation.
First off, do your research. Find out who is going to be there. Learn which dealers and which stamp collecting organizations will be in attendance. Once you learn that, you can do a little research amongst your fellow stamp collectors and online to find out what those dealers specialize in, which will help determine which dealers you will want to visit first. Once you get the stamps you want, you will be able to explore the other dealers. And, on the other hand, by finding out what organizations are there, you will be able to fraternize with any you might belong to or you might find a group with which to affiliate yourself. By planning ahead of time and making sure you find at least some of the stamps you want, you will have more time left over to be social.
The second step in preparation is gathering your materials prior to the show. Make sure you have your tools – magnifying glass, loupe, tongs, etc. – and a way to transport your new collectibles safely and securely. This will assure that you are completely prepared and ready to take on the show, all without wandering around aimlessly and hoping to come across a stamp you want by chance and without destroying any of your new items.
Another step in preparation is to make a checklist of stamps that you would like to add to your collection. No, you might not get them all at once, but keeping the checklist will make sure that you will get the stamps you want and help you keep organized the ones you have and do not have. This will last you not only the soonest upcoming show but for many shows afterward.
And make sure you prepare for the day of the show. Double-check that you don't have any previous engagements, chores or obligations. After all, you want to enjoy the show worry-free.
Finally, be prepared to enjoy the show! After all, it isn’t business; it’s a hobby, and we all have our hobbies to keep ourselves entertained. Preparation will ensure that you get to enjoy the show to its fullest without missing out on anything fun!
Photo Credits: KLMircea
Originally posted 2010-07-27 03:07:43.
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Posted by Collectible Stamp on May 21, 2013 in
Selling and Buying Stamps, Stamp Collecting, Stamp Show, Tips and Tricks
Stamp Journal
The following is a list of things to keep in mind when collecting stamps.
1. The First step behind starting a collection is by buying or looking for stamps to add to your collection. Buying stamps is easy, many stores sell stamps by the kilo which is known as kiloware. A kiloware will not cost very much, usually only a few dollars and they will contain around 1000 stamps. Another obvious place to start looking for tamps is in ones home. Going through the mail that arrives each day is an excellent source of free stamps. One can also buy stamps directly from the post office, but this can become costly.
2. Some people strike up a pen pal friendship with somebody within or out of the country. This way by sending mail to each other, you will get stamps to add to the collection.
3. It is always a good idea to look for friends who collect stamps or join a stamp collecting club. This way you will be able to exchange stamps with other collectors. This is also a good way to get rid of duplicate copies.
4. Look through the news paper for any stamp shows in your area. If there is one, sign up and go see and learn about stamps. This is a great way to meet people who know a lot about stamps.
5. Not all stamps you get will be taken off the envelope. In order to do that you need to soak them in either lukewarm or warm water for a few minutes. In most cases the stamps will slide right of the envelope.
6. Once this is done dry them on a piece of paper. All handling must be done with tweezers.
7. Afterward you should arrange them in alphabetical order in an album. Whatever you do, not clump them all together in a box, this will damage them.
8. Stamps are graded as very fine, fine, good and poor. Very fine stamp will be almost perfect with the color being little shaded. Fine will have no blemishes, almost as good as very fine. A good stamp will have faded color and the postmark will be dark. A poor stamp will be thorn and full of blemishes.
9. When starting a collection, start small. If it there is too many stamps to sort out you may get disinterested.
10. Purchase a magnifying glass. A magnifying glass is an important tool for any serious stamp collector.
Photo Credits: Migraine Chick
Originally posted 2010-08-14 03:14:44.
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Posted by Collectible Stamp on May 21, 2013 in
Stamp Collecting, Tips and Tricks
Stamp Collection
When I was younger I really liked to collect stamps. But as I grew up and got involved in other fun activities, I gradually started losing interest in the stamp collecting hobby. So, I started thinking of selling my collection of stamps. After all, I didn't want all that hard work to get wasted!
So, if you too have given up collecting stamps or have inherited a nice collection, and are wondering about how to sell stamp collection, then you need not worry. There are a number of stamp collectors who'd be willing to purchase your collection at a price that it merits. Your stamps may not be worth a fortune, but there's no harm in trying to earn some extra bucks.
Start by acquiring an idea about the worth of your collection. You could do this in many ways. You need to proceed depending upon the way you intend to sell your stamps.
Selling through Dealers:
You could hire a local appraiser to assist you with the sale. He would examine the collection to give a written estimate of what it's worth. This is a good way to proceed as the appraisers have no interest in buying the collection. Thus, there's no reason for them to cheat you by quoting a lower price than you deserve for your collection. However, they would charge you a fee for their services, which you should always decide before going ahead with the deal. You could also get in touch with stamp collectors who make money by buying and selling stamps.
Selling by Yourself:
If you want to sell your stamp collection all by yourself, then be ready for a good learning experience. It won't be a cake walk but it would teach you a lot about stamps. Pick up a Scott catalog to find your stamps' value. You could even go to a stamp club close to your place. The members of these clubs know a lot about stamps and would help you with all your queries about the collection. If you are lucky, a member might even offer to pay you a good deal for the collection.
Selling on the Internet:
There's a large number of websites on the Internet that deal with selling of collectibles. 'eBay' and 'Delcampe' are good examples. You could even create your own site to sell stamps, but it would need huge inputs of time and effort. Describe your stamps well in detail on these sites to get the best price.
Selling through an Auction:
Certain auction house would sell your collection for you if they feel that your collection is valued. Few indicators that a collection will sell well are given below:
- The stamps are in a good condition. They are not torn and untidy.
- The stamps belong to a single country.
- They belong to very old times. Stamps since around 1935 in the USA have no value.
- The collection has the envelopes with the stamps. These envelopes, on which the stamps are pasted, are more valuable than the stamps themselves.
- The collection consists of 'philatelic literature' describing the stamps.
Now that you know how to sell a stamp collection, get ready to use the approach that best suits your situation.
Photo credits: itchys
Originally posted 2010-06-04 03:01:35.
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Posted by Collectible Stamp on May 21, 2013 in
Selling and Buying Stamps, Stamp Collection
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