What Kinds Of Stamps Go Up In Value?
There are generally four things that determine any stamp's value: the condition of the stamp, the market, how rare it is, if it's been used, and any current buying trends in the industry. Remember, old doesn't mean valuable. Old stamps in particular may have lost color or illustrate other types of wear (which takes us back to condition). Unused old stamps tend to be very rare until the idea of collecting them seriously really took hold (around the 1920s, at which point collectors watched for block flaws that might make their gathering unique).
Sometimes unusually shaped stamps garner good appreciation. However, beware of stamps from the 1930s. For some reason there was a glut of over-production that
is left most stamps (even mint condition) at face value. In fact, some collectors have taken to using them for postage simply because they're easy to get and show little signs of improving their worth. The only items that have appreciated are souvenir sheets and those with errors in the print run. Used stamps are more valuable if they're still on the original envelope.
The truth is that many people collect stamps more as a hobby to enjoy a slice of life than for financial gain, which is good since the majority of stamps are not worth any more than their face value. If you're wanting a collection that has value, you'll probably have to invest more than the average collector and also educate yourself on stamp values using guides like Scott's Catalogue (somewhat of a Bible for stamp collectors). Bear in mind as you collect that what you pay for a stamp and how much you may be able to sell it for in the future is iffy. This market, like many others, is subject to the whim of buyers. Certain themes appear that are popular one year, and dropped the next that means value can waiver. If you think of this like long-term investing it's best. Don't look at the changing values from day to day or month to month but look years down the road knowing that you have a personal or family treasure no matter the end value.
Related Products And FREE Videos
More Articles
There are many terms specific to stamp-collecting that are good to know if you re going to get serious about this hobby: Acid Free Paper: The best type of paper to use for displaying stamps as it slows aging. Crease: A fold in the stamp. These get rated from heavy (serious) to faint) and some collectors ...
Stamp Collecting: Plate Blocks
In stamp collecting the term plate block refers to a grouping of stamps still connected together that includes selvage that shows the plate numbers from the print run. Some collectors consider these the best investment because stamp collectors pay a premium for these and they improve in value more quickly ...
So you ve started stamp collecting or come into possession of a collection. How do you begin to know if what you re choosing or looking at has any value? There are a variety of ways you can find out on your own without paying a service for an appraisal. First, go to the source. The US Postal Service has ...
Sen. Levin's stamp collection displayed at National Postal Museum
The Smithsonian has given its stamp of approval to Sen. Carl Levin's philatelic collection. Levin was one of five Capitol Hill lawmakers chosen by the National Postal Museum to have his stamp collection on display today and Friday in the Rayburn House Office Building near the U.S. Capitol.
New stamp marks Boy Scouts' 100th anniversary
The U.S. Postal Service gave the Boy Scouts of America its stamp of approval with the release of the Scouting stamp that went on sale yesterday. To commemorate the 100th anniversary of the national organization, the postal service commissioned the 44-cent stamp on which illustrator Craig Frazier depicts a backpacking ...
State cracking down on food stamp fraud
PHOENIX -- The state is hiring three people to crack down on a particular kind of food stamp fraud.
Museum collects stories, objects for new racetrack exhibit
The Laurel Museum is collecting artifacts and stories for its upcoming exhibit on the Laurel Racetrack, "And They're Off!: 100 Years at Laurel Park." The exhibit will debut at the museum in February 2011.
Taxes stamp out smoking in state
It does not matter that 40 years ago, a pack of Newport cigarettes only set him back two quarters. Erin Brush just rolls his eyes now when he buys smokes for $6.50. And Brush, a San Francisco resident, will continue to light up even though The City said he cant do it within 15 feet of a building...
Pickerington steps up fight against litter
City officials are hoping to stamp out discarded trash throughout the community by leading a fight against litter.
Debit cards, direct deposit to replace checks for jobless
Paper unemployment checks are less secure and more costly, say officials with Maine's labor department.
Franklin Park Scouts earn rank advancements, badges
Boy Scout Troop 158, sponsored by the Franklin Park Kiwanis, announced the following Scouts who recently earned their rank advancements and were awarded their Merit Badges at the May Court of Honor.
Elmhurst Green Fest will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. July 31 at Wilder Park on Prospect Avenue between the Art Museum and Cottage Hill Street parking lot. Highlights include fun and educational activities for kids and adults, recycling drop-off, eco-friendly product and service exhibits, live folk music, door prizes and give aways. Presentation topics include reducing home energy usage, easy ...
Become a member of our community!
Visit zip2save.com for all your favorite circulars & coupons! Elmhurst Green Fest will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. July 31 at Wilder Park on Prospect Avenue between the Art Museum and Cottage Hill Street parking lot.