Selecting a Stamp Album

Stamp albums can be a unique way to share something you love. The history of the stamp album is quite extraordinary and can be dated all the way back to 1863. To the collector, these albums represent a picture in time and a pride of ownership.

When selecting a stamp album there are a a few things to keep in mind. Whether this is a first time collector or a longtime collector, all the same rules apply. An album is comprised of many slots and spots ordered chronologically from old to new. Many of these slots contain a visual of what the stamp looks like. All the collector needs to do is locate the stamp and then place them in the appropriate places in the book.

Some earlier versions of stamp books come in hardcover. These stamp albums are limited due to lack of stamp space. You cannot add or take out pages from a hardcover stamp album. More modern styles of stamp albums are separated into countries. Some even have sets of albums because there are such a vast array of stamps collected in certain countries.

When stamp albums are being assembled or stamps are being added, stamp mounts are used to keep the stamp from being damaged. Another popular form of stamp protection is the stamp hinge, which is a plastic casing for a stamp. When selecting a stamp album, a collector should look for albums that include the stamp hinges in them. These may make the value of the book higher and a stamp collector may have to pay more for the album, but it's worth the overall protection of the stamps. Also look for blank pages, as this will allow new stamps to be placed in the book that do not have specific spots in the album.

Some just prefer to make their stamp albums themselves. If a collector is considering this option, they should be aware that using certain types of paper will lower the value of the stamp itself. Paper will turn brown or yellow after a certain amount of time. It is good to use archival paper to preserve not only the stamp but the overall look of the album. Stamps are a great way to learn about our countries history. The albums are a great way to be able to pass that history along to other generations.

Photo Credits: karen horton

Originally posted 2010-08-11 03:47:02.

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Stamp Collecting, Stamp Organization, Tips and Tricks

Posted by Collectible Stamp on January 8, 2012 in Stamp Collecting, Stamp Organization, Tips and Tricks.