Table of Contents
Introduction
Collection of stamps, also known as philately, is a rewarding and absorbing hobby that draws individuals of all ages. It’s an enjoyable way to slow down, learn something new, and even connect with others who share your interest. Here in this guide, we will walk through all the basics, from what you need to get started to how to care for your collections. If you have been curious about collecting stamps, or if you are wanting to buy stamps online it is the perfect time to commence your journey.
Why start collecting stamps?
Collecting stamps is not only a fun-filled activity, but an engaging hobby that widens a window into the domain of history, geography, art and to some extent into politics. For a lot of individuals, it is a relaxing way to unwind, almost therapeutic. It is a perfect way to connect with others who share similar interests, be it through local clubs, groups or through national societies.
It’s also a brilliant activity to share with kids. Mind it, it is one of the activities or hobbies where you can involve and encourage your kids to take active part. Younger collectors ready to collect stamps are having vision to buy stamps online can discover a whole new hobby that doesn’t involve screens. At the same time it is one of the best possible ways for children to bond with parents or grandparents who may have collected stamps when they were younger.
A Quick Look at Stamp History:
If you are relatively young into collecting stamps, it allows knowing a little about where stamps began. Just for trivia and fun, the very first stamp, the famous Penny Black was issued in the UK in 1840. Though small, it completely transformed how individuals sent mail and quickly gained enormous popularity. Since then countries all across the globe have created their own stamps, featuring unique and ever-changing designs. There is always something latest to discover.
Some Stamp Terms You Should Know
We’ve got a full glossary of stamp-collecting terms on our website, but here are a few key words to get you started. Are you planning to buy from a store or ready to buy stamps online? Whatever it be, these terms are to be known before you begin.
- Philately – This is just the fancy word for the study and collecting of stamps. If you’re into stamps, you’re a philatelist!
- Definitive Stamp – These are the regular stamps you see used every day. They’re usually around for a long time and often show the monarch’s head.
- Commemorative Stamp – These stamps are made to mark a special event, anniversary, or theme. They’re sometimes called “special” stamps and usually come out in limited runs.
- Used Stamp – A stamp that’s already been through the postal system. You’ll often see part of a postmark or cancellation mark on it.
- Mint Stamp – This means the stamp is in perfect condition—it hasn’t been used and still has its original gum on the back.
- Cancellation – This is the mark made by the post office to show a stamp has been used. It usually goes right over the stamp to stop it from being reused.
- Perforation – These are the tiny holes between stamps that make them easy to tear apart neatly.
How you Should Collect and Preserve Stamps
While it comes to stamp collecting there is no right or wrong place to start. The options are almost endless. You need to decide on stamps from a single country. If not you can opt for themes that interest you, like wildlife, famous individuals, or something quirky like pets, moving objects like bus trains and so on.
A proper approach is to check out online stores for rare Indian stamps and commence with a broad theme and then narrow it down as you go. Think about what excites you and what you already enjoy in your day-to-day life. The more you care about the particular subject, the more fun it will be.
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If you’re just starting out with stamp collecting, there are a few basic tools that will help you get going:
Stamp Album
This is where you will store and display the collections. Albums come in a variety of styles. Thereby it is always better to choose the one that suits the way you want to collect.
Stamp Catalogue
A catalogue is like a guidebook for the collectors. It allows identifying and learning more about the stamps that you find. Just check your local library. There might be some you can look through.
Magnifying Glass
Few stamps have tiny details that are easy to miss. A magnifying glass allows you to look at things in a transparent manner.
Stamp Hinges or Mounts
These are used to attach stamps to your album without damaging them. The type you’ll need depends on the album you choose.
These are used to attach stamps to the album without causing any damage. The type you will need depends on the album you choose.
Tweezers
Yes—tweezers! They let you handle stamps without getting oils or dirt from your fingers on them. (We’ll explain how to use them properly a little later
Where can you Find the Stamps?
There are a lot of places to purchase stamps, but why not first ask your family to see if anyone has an old collection you could have. You could also collect stamps from your own post or you can ask family and friends to keep theirs.
If you are having relatives abroad, it could lead to some interesting world stamps. These stamps can be purchased online or from a stamp dealer at a shop or from stamp fair. Check out online stores for rare Indian stamps. These online stores can help you add the best of collections. To be honest, stamp fairs or shows are a great place to visit not only to add to your collection but witness exhibits and have a talk or discussion with dealers and other stamp collectors.
Final Words
As you commence your collection, you will come across stories in small pieces of paper, meet others with similar passions and perhaps even find a life long interest. With a few basic tools and a bit of curiosity, you are on the way to become a collector. So, whether you’re collecting for fun, education, or nostalgia, remember to enjoy the process. Maybe you are collecting from an online store for rare Indian stamps or from a store, the world of stamps will never disappoint. It is vast and full of surprises—why not start exploring it today?
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