What to Do If You Inherit an Old Stamp Collection

If you happen to have a relative who was an avid stamp collector who has passed away recently, handing over to you a stamp collection and you have no idea what to do with it, then consider the below options on what to do if you inherit an old stamp collection.

The first decision you need to make when you inherit an old stamp collection is to either sell it or keep it. Once you have that base decision made you can continue on in the path you choose with either an appraisal process, or a safekeeping placement of the collection.

If you decide to sell the stamp collection, then you will first need to have it appraised for its value. The appraisal process can be done by an amateur with access to the internet or a stamp collectors value guide, but if you are looking to simply get rid of the collection and receive a proper appraisal by a professional, then you can hire someone to do give a value to you. When looking at the value of a stamp collection you can have stamps that are separately worth thousands, and others that are worth just pennies, so if you are looking to sell make sure you note which stamps are the highlights of the collection in case separation would bring about a better value.

On the other hand if you decide you want to keep the collection and maybe add onto it yourself, you can start the safekeeping process by having the collection evaluated for damage and assure that it is in proper condition as it stands. If the collection has some wear to it, you want to immediately have it taken care of and placed properly in a binder or portfolio that can house the collection without causing any further damage. With the stamps in safe hands, you can place the collection in an area that isn't prone to moisture or heat, in order to keep the stamps in good condition. Once the collection is taken care of and placed in an area where it will be safe, you can begin adding onto the collection, or admiring the pages and the time your relative took to collect their stamps.

Overall, if out of a death in the family you inherit an old stamp collection, check out the above methods of dealing with the stamps, and assuring you get the most out of what you are bestowed.

Photo Credits: DairDair

Originally posted 2010-08-16 03:40:54.

This post involves:

Stamp Collection, stamp collector, stamp collectors, stamp collectors value guide, stamps

... and focuses on:

Selling and Buying Stamps, Stamp Collecting, Stamp Collection

Posted by Collectible Stamp on January 8, 2012 in Selling and Buying Stamps, Stamp Collecting, Stamp Collection.