What is a Stamp Packet

Don't all purchased collectible postage stamps come in a packet, glassine, or package of some kind? Sure. But the term packet refers more to the diversity of different packets available. For instance, there are country specific packets. There are United States stamp packets, Russia stamp packets, etc.. There are also packets categorized by topic like butterflies on stamps, trains on stamps, and scouts on stamps. There are even packets categorized, or grouped, by stamp type like commemoratives or triangle stamps.

So, the term packet doesn't necessarily refer to the enclosure but rather the grouping and quantity. Ok, what's the big deal about packets and why are they beneficial to add to a stamp collection. As previously mentioned, as you begin to collect you will develop your tastes. Hopefully you will have many favorites but you will likely start with a few. So, if you find that you really like ships on stamps and you have approximately 2 hours per week to enjoy your hobby. With that, you may wish to start with a packet of 500 ships topical stamps.

So, you see now, the term packet is more like a unit by which a measure (quantity of stamps) and type (category, style, or stamp topic) helps a collector quickly add to their collection.

-- James the Web guy