From the moment you inherit a stamp collection and prepare to sell it, many questions arise. The first question is most likely to be “which stamps are rare and valuable?” It takes an average person at least two years of research just to begin understanding the basics of what makes stamps rare and why.
Most collectors and dealers use a Scott stamp catalogs for simple reference, which is issued in six volumes for international stamps and one specialized volume for U.S stamps. The catalogs cover everything from different types of stamps to the various types of paper that were used to print them. A new set of these catalogs sell for about $500.00 per set; and, it is essential to obtain one if you plan on doing your own research and becoming an active philatelist. You can pick up a discounted set of catalogs on both
Hands on experience is always the best way to gain knowledge. By spending time each day researching your stamps in catalogs or other reference publications, one will gain great insight to the meaning and purpose behind each stamp. You might also be able to seek out or join a local stamp club. There you will find a dozen or so collectors that do not keep up with the market value of stamps but are simply in it for the pleasures the hobby provide.
One of the most intriguing aspects of being a philatelist is the ability to being able to learn something new every time you venture into a collection. With millions of possibilities you can never claim to have seen it all or to know everything their is to know about stamps; this keeps the hobby intriguing. A philatelist always has something exciting to learn and explore.
Becoming a Philatelist does not happen overnight and having a passion for the hobby is a necessity in becoming one. It is not a title that one seeks, but a title that one gains over time. Below you can read our latest blogs detailing different types of Philatelic Topics.
If you have any questions in regards to Philatelic Topics please contact us at (619) 672-0434 during business hours.
Nick’s Stamps has relocated to San Diego California!
Nick’s Stamps has relocated and is now operating out of San Diego, California. As of May 1st 2014, we have resumed all operations and are once again purchasing stamp collections from the U.S and abroad. Please review our “Sell Your Stamps” section or contact us at (619) 672-0434 for further information. There are several things to consider when selling your stamp collection. Through our years of experience, we have created a simplified process for selling large stamp collections. The first step to sell your stamp...
read moreHaving Your Stamp Collection Appraised:
Having Your Stamp Collection Appraised: Unlike a ring or a watch or an old baseball card, a stamp collection is one of the most difficult things to appraise, especially if you have no experience dealing with stamps. Why? A stamp collection can contain thousands upon thousands of stamps, with each one having its own value. With years of experience, one can easily flip through an album containing thousands of stamps and know the value of the album in just minutes. On the other hand, if you have no experience in philately and want to figure...
read moreThe Stamp Market in Florida
Moving your stamp business to Orlando, Florida might not meet your expectations. Buying and selling postage stamps is already a tough gig these days. Since the large majority of collectors are over the age of 60 and the state of Florida is a popular place for senior living, one would think Florida would be a great place to be a stamp dealer and own a stamp shop. Truth is, aside from my own stamp business, there are only a couple of other local stamp shops in Central Florida that deal in exclusively in stamps. But, even they do not have a...
read moreStamps & Coins: What Was Once a Happy Marriage
Stamps & Coins: What Was Once a Happy Marriage You can still find stores titled Stamp & Coin Shop. The problem is that if you are trying to sell your stamp collection, chances are they never got around to changing their sign to just Coin Shop. The reason for this divorce is simply because stamps are made of paper and not your fine gold or silver. There has always been a connection between collecting both coins and stamps. Although these hobbies are a bit different, there are similarities that appealed to both types of...
read moreThe Wonders of Stamp Collecting and Children
The Wonders of Stamp Collecting and Children Recently I had the pleasure of introducing stamp collecting to a young boy name Leo who is just over 3 years old. Within minutes we were both engaged and on the hunt to find the correct stamp to fill a blank space in the stamp album. With no digital gadgets or buttons to push, it was nice to see a young boy instantly focused and enjoying the task placed before him. I have been asked many times why stamp collecting is no longer the worlds #1 hobby. The answer is that it is a lesson that starts...
read moreThe Mystic History behind Stamp Collecting
The Mystic History behind Stamp Collecting Postage stamp collecting and dealing began shortly after the very first stamp was printed in England on May 2, 1840. This mystic stamp is known as the Penny Black the stamp bares the image of Queen Victoria; it was an instant hit. With 68,808,000 Penny Blacks being printed, you can still easily find one today to add to your collection. Because of the Postal Service and stamps, communication from one country to another became a part of everyday life. It also brought a sense of excitement as one...
read moreTypes of Stamps
Types of Stamps In the long history of the postage stamp, creators have come up with unique and varied ways to distinguish their stamp from other types of stamps. Below, we will highlight some of the most popular stamp types you should expect to see when collecting stamps and/or selling your stamps. * Airmail stamp — to be bought and used for delivery by air service. * Booklet — stamps produced and sold in booklets. * Carriers stamp — from 1842 to 1860 carrier stamps were used by private mail carriers to deliver mail. * ...
read moreDemise of the Stamp Store
Demise of the Stamp Store Stamp collecting was one of America’s favorite pastimes. Whether it was collecting singles, blocks, sheets or first day issues. It brought families, people and cultures together. Gone are the days when you could walk a few blocks to consult your neighborhood stamp store to learn more about the paper gem you acquired from across the globe. These little adhesive paper relics did more than just stick to an envelope; they bridged cultural divides and educated the masses about subjects ranging from sports to...
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