Information Regarding Rare Postage Stamps

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By Angela Turner


A very popular hobby worldwide is stamp collecting or philately as it is known. Enthusiasts and collectors often build up huge collections of examples from hundreds of countries and in many different types. There are a few main factors that make a stamp a rare or give it an increased value and if you are planning to buy rare postage stamps there are a few things to think about before you make any purchases.

The first postage stamp the penny black was issued in Great Britain in 1840 and featured a picture of Queen Victoria. This remains one of the most sought after examples and although unused ones are rare a used one in average condition can be found for around 150 dollars. There are many others which are rarer than this and they will command a much higher figure when sold.

A lot of philatelists will focus on one particular type of stamp and will seek out examples to add to their collection. First day covers, animals, birds and insects are all a popular choice for many. Others may decide to look for examples featuring modes of transport, famous faces or sporting themed stamps. Other items that can be valuable are misprints and examples where errors have been made when in production.

Postage stamps are usually sold according to a grading system which is recognized by philatelists and the grades range from poor to extra fine. A poor stamp is one which is badly worn, damaged or soiled and not in very good condition. Extra fine means it is a perfect example and these are the most desirable ones for most serious collectors.

Before starting a collection a few essential items and tools will be need to be purchased to help keep your items in good original condition. An album to display stamps will be needed and maybe adhesive backed hinges to mount them. Tongs, a magnifying glass and gloves are also useful to help preserve the condition of your collection.

There are a few options for you when you are looking for rare and valuable items to add to your collection. Established stamp dealers can be found who will have fine examples in stock and will be happy to help you find what you are looking for. Auction sale rooms and internet retailers are also good places to source examples. Fellow collectors are always useful contacts and many will swap, sell or trade parts of their collection with others.

Whenever you are buying stamps some care should be exercised to avoid making mistakes. Due to the high value and vast prices they fetch many examples of stamp have been sold that are counterfeit. If you are buying privately it is essential to have the items looked at by an expert to check they are the real thing and not faked.

As with any collection of rare and valuable items you should always make sure that it is insured against loss, theft or damage. Most homeowners will have some kind of contents insurance to cover their possessions but this will not usually cover valuable collectibles. Specialist insurance companies can be found who specialize in valuables and antiques and these are worth contacting to obtain quotes.




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