Beginner Stamp Collecting

How does one start collecting stamps? Do you need an old pro in the family? The latest stamp album? Platinum tongs? While we'll explore other considerations in future posts, my advice for now is to start simple. Develop your tastes - your favorite stamp issuing countries, your favorite topical stamps, etc. Remember, your stamp collection is just that: yours. If you develop a preference for low value purple stamps, then so be it.

Don't get me wrong. The advice and knowledge of experts in the field isn't to be completely ignored. Philatelic periodicals and "how to collect" books will only help you develop a deeper appreciation for your new hobby. But unless you plan to only collect what you can sell, don't worry about impressing anyone. Background information and history are important when collecting stamps. Our affordable How to Collect Stamps book is a good reference for beginners. But don't feel tied to only the most popular countries or topics.

Beginning can be as easy as starting to save the stamps you receive on letters. A great way to begin collecting foreign stamps or older US stamps is to try our shop at home approval service or our Stamp Collecting Starter Kit. If you have friends or family in foreign countries, asking them to save mail for you is a good way to begin as well. Foreign stamps are fascinating...especially if you have ties to or an interest in specific countries.

For example, this last summer I took part in a missionary trip to Mongolia. Upon returning I began to build a Mongolian stamp collection. Why? I now have a specific interest in this country, it's people, and it's history. In fact, I recently found some Mongolia stamps I had set aside. Now I have renewed interest that has absolutely nothing to do with the latest going rate for any of them. I've even learned a few things about Mongolia from the stamps that I did not learn during my visit. Beginning with a stamp, I've adventured again by researching the people and places depicted on stamps. There's a whole world out there to explore...some of it is as close as your mailbox.