Collecting perfin postage stamps / Postage stamp collecting / The history of stamp collecting / Beginner's guide / What is stamp philately?

Beginner's guide to stamps and stamp collecting

You too can join the throngs of stamp enthusiasts around the world by folllowing the simple steps explained in this article. And when you begin your collection, you will become a philatelist and start the old-age hobby of collecting stamps.

First, in order to start your fascinating collection, you will need to purchase a few supplies from your local hobby store. You will need a pair of tweezer-like stamp tongs to use when you handle your stamps so they do not become soiled; a stamp album to keep your collection clean and free from dirt and stains; hinges to hold certain types of stamps in your album; plastic holders to hold other types of stamps in your album, specifically the new, uncirculated ones; and, of course, some stamps. Note: Certai stamp albums are designed to hold the stamps without the use of hinges or holders. Purchasing this type of album will save you time and money in the long run, and is really the best way to go.

The stamps that you collect may either be new or used. You can either purchase some stamps to start your collection out, or ask friends and family members to save their stamps off of envelopes, cards, etc. they receive, for you. You can add to your collection by saving the stamps off of your own mail, too. If someone you know is going to take a trip overseas to a faraway land, then you can get some foreign stamps easily that way too.

Next, start your collection by arranging your stamps by countries, theme, etc.first. If you are not sure about the different countries, consult a world atlas and find out. Then, arrange your stamp collection one step further by sorting them alphabetically. This way it will be easier to find a stamp you are looking for. Think of the country, then what letter it begins with. Or, if you choose to arrange them by theme, that is, birds, celebrities, states, etc., you should still arrange them alphabetically for ease in finding them.

Here are just a few of the most common terms used in stamp collecting that you will need to know:

Coil Stamps- These stamps are attached together in a large roll.

Commemorative Stamps- These stamps are issued by the post office in order to mark a special event or occasion, such as the U.S. astronauts landing on the moon. They are usually larger than regular postal stamps, and come in either single stamps or in small blocks.

Face Value-Not to be confused with the collecting value of a stamp, if it has one. The face value is the price of the stamp which is printed on the stamp's face.

Pane-A separate section of stamps, either a quarter, half, or full sheet.

Postage Due Stamps- These stamps cannot be purchased. They are attached by the post office to an envelope which is being sent but does not have the suffficient amount of postage on it.

Postmarks-These marks which are normally found on used stamps, is applied by the post office as a way to cancel or prevent the re-use of a stamp. Re-using a stamp, by the way, is mail fraud and is punishable by the law.

And, there are a few basic things to remember about your stamp collection:

One aspect of a stamp that makes it more valuable is if it has a flaw or printed defect of some kind on it. Like flawed coins or paper money, flawed stamps can be quite valuable! It is a most important thing to watch for in your stamp collection!

Don't forget to use your stamp tongs when handling your stamp collection, store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, and, above all, have fun with your new collection!