Hey there, my fellow readers!
Today, I want to talk to you about a passion that’s been close to my heart years back (actually during my school age) and recently grabbed my attention and likeness – stamp collecting.
Recently my son started the same as his school is going to start a stamp club. Hence, as to help him I started studying on this again. Trust me, there’s more to it than you might think! So, grab a cup of tea, sit back, and let’s explore the world of philately together.
When i was studying this ancient hobby, these are few things I learned and would be helpful for you also to start collecting.
1. Start Small, Dream Big
When you’re new to stamp collecting, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the sheer number of stamps out there. My advice? Start small. Pick a theme or a country that interests you. Maybe you’re drawn to beautiful flower stamps or the history of a specific nation. Focusing on a niche makes your collection unique and more meaningful. (For me, i too had a collection in multiple subject areas. But now I thought of prioritizing Sri Lankan / other country’s history, heritage, handicrafts like things.)
Beyond just collecting, this hobby can open up a treasure trove of educational content. Exploring the history, culture, and geography of the countries featured on stamps can be an enlightening experience. You’ll find yourself delving into the stories behind each stamp, which can deepen your knowledge in various subjects.
2. Gather the Essentials
All you need to begin your stamp collecting journey are some basic tools:
- stamp tongs (those little tweezers for handling stamps)
- An album
- Hinges or mounts
- A magnifying glass.
You don’t need to break the bank on fancy equipment – simplicity is key.
These tools are not just for convenience; they are your windows to the fascinating world of philately. The magnifying glass helps you examine every intricate detail on a stamp, from watermarks to tiny imperfections. Hinges and mounts preserve the stamps’ condition while letting you display them neatly in your album.
3. Learn About Your Stamps
Understanding the history and details of the stamps you collect adds an exciting layer to the hobby. Get familiar with terms like perforations (those little holes on the edges), watermarks, and overprints. Research the stories behind the stamps – who’s featured, what event they commemorate, or what makes them unique.
Through this learning process, you’ll be gaining valuable knowledge about different cultures, historical events, and design techniques. It’s like having a history and art lesson rolled into one!
the book “Muddara Lokayata Piwisemu” by “Lanka Postal Department” would be a good start for the study. (Download from their web site.).
4. Organize Like a Pro
Once you’ve got a few stamps in your collection, keeping them organized is essential. Use your album to arrange them in a systematic manner. Catalog your stamps, note their condition, and track your progress. This makes it easier to find and admire your treasures.
This organizational aspect not only helps you keep track of your collection but also enhances your attention to detail. It’s a practical skill that can spill over into other areas of your life.
5. Networking is Key
Stamp collecting is even more enjoyable when you connect with fellow collectors. Join a local stamp club or explore online forums and social media groups dedicated to philately. Sharing your passion with others can lead to exciting trades and discoveries.
Through networking, you’ll not only make friends who share your interests but also gain access to a wealth of collective knowledge. You’ll learn about new stamp releases, rare finds, and valuable tips and tricks from experienced collectors.
I found huge number of Facebook groups on stamp collecting, stamp selling, etc. and you can just find many by just doing a simple groups and pages search.
6. Preserve with Care
To maintain the value and beauty of your stamps, store them in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Never use regular glue or tape on your stamps, as it can damage them. Instead, use hinges or mounts for safe and secure attachment in your album. (As per collectors and sellers, if you stick a stamp using glue, if you want to sell, the selling value is greatly diminish. But for a collector I don’t think it matters).
Preservation is not just about protecting your investment; it’s about safeguarding history. Stamps often serve as time capsules, and it’s our duty as collectors to ensure they endure for future generations to enjoy.
7. Hunt for Hidden Gems
Stamp collecting is like a treasure hunt. Keep an eye out for sales, flea markets, and online auctions. You never know when you might stumble upon a rare and valuable stamp that others have overlooked. There are monthly events on stamp selling at the Public library (Sri Lanka) and i found many online auctions and selling mostly on facebook groups.
This aspect of the hobby turns every outing into an adventure. The thrill of the hunt can be exhilarating, and the feeling of discovering a hidden gem is unparalleled.
8. Patience is a Virtue
Stamp collecting isn’t a race; it’s a lifelong journey. Be patient and enjoy the process. Over time, you’ll build a collection that’s uniquely yours, filled with stories and history.
Stamp collecting teaches us the value of patience and perseverance. It’s a constant reminder that good things come to those who wait, and the journey itself is often more rewarding than the destination. (That is one main reason why I also want to introduce this to my son as he’s little lack of patience. 😀 ).
9. Share Your Passion
Finally, don’t keep your stamp collection a secret. Share it with friends and family. You might even inspire someone else to start their own philatelic adventure.
By sharing your passion, you’re not only spreading the love for stamp collecting but also introducing people to the world of history and culture that stamps represent. It’s a delightful way to connect with others and open their eyes to the wonders of the world, one stamp at a time.
Stamp collecting is a fantastic hobby that bridges art, history, and culture. It’s a bit like time travel, allowing us to explore the world through tiny, colorful squares of paper. So, start small, dream big, and enjoy the ride.
Happy collecting, my friend!
Few random pages from my personal collection.
