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Thứ Năm, 31 tháng 3, 2016

Thinking Of Buying Rare Postage Stamps

By Angela Turner


Many people around the world collect stamps as a hobby and it has been very popular for many years. There are thousands of different examples available to collectors from hundreds of countries. There are many factors which can make a stamp collectible and those who collect rare postage stamps will spend many years building their extensive collections.

Postage stamps were introduced in the United Kingdom in 1840 and the first one is known as the penny black. Unused mint examples of this are extremely rare and valuable but some used ones can be found and purchased for between one and two hundred dollars. There are stamps from other countries in the world which are much more recent and which sell for higher prices.

Some collectors will tend to stick to one specific area of postage stamp. Airmail, commemorative and first day issues are popular with many philatelists. Others will specialize in stamps featuring birds, animals or famous people. Some will collect misprints where the image on the stamp has been printed upside down or maybe in the wrong color than was intended.

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.

If you are planning to start a new collection or add to an existing one by buying rarer items there are a few things to think about before buying to avoid any costly mistakes. Due to the high value of some of the items on the market many have been faked over the years. If buying from anyone other than a reputable established dealer or auction house you should always get an item checked by a qualified expert before making a purchase.

With any collection of valuable items or antiques, adequate insurance should be in place to cover your items against and loss or damages. Many homes will have contents cover in place but this will probably not be sufficient for a valuable stamp collection. There are insurance firms in business who specialize in providing cover for collectibles and a few quotes should be obtained and prices compared.




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