Stamps and Philately

Here you will find interesting information about stamp collecting, philately, values of stamps and  news about stamps.

German stamp page of sammler.com / Deutsche Briefmarkenseite von sammler.com

Most expensive and famous postage stamps of Austria

The most expensive and valuabe stamps at the online auction ebay.com sorted by countries

Books about Stamps in sammler.com gift gallery

When collecting stamps, there are several important factors to consider. Here are some key considerations for collectors:

Focus and Theme: Determine the focus and theme of your stamp collection. Stamps can be collected based on countries, historical periods, specific topics (e.g., animals, sports, art), or other criteria. Having a clear focus helps you narrow down your collection and makes it more meaningful to you.

Condition: The condition of stamps is crucial. Look for stamps that are in excellent condition, with vibrant colors, crisp perforations, and no damage or stains. Higher-grade stamps generally have more value and are more sought after by collectors. Pay attention to factors like centering and gum condition.

Rarity and Scarcity: Collect stamps that are rare or hard to find. Stamps with low printing quantities, limited editions, or printing errors can be more valuable and desirable among collectors. Research the rarity of stamps you're interested in and consider acquiring those that are less common.

Philatelic Value: Philatelic value refers to the historical or cultural significance of a stamp beyond its face value. Consider collecting stamps that commemorate important events, feature famous personalities, or have interesting postal history. Stamps with unique features like watermarks, overprints, or varieties can also have added philatelic value.

Postage vs. Commemorative Stamps: Decide whether you want to collect postage stamps (used for mailing) or commemorative stamps (issued for special occasions or themes). Postage stamps are more common and widely available, while commemorative stamps often have more varied designs and are issued in limited quantities.

Mint vs. Used Stamps: Decide if you prefer collecting mint (unused) stamps or used stamps. Mint stamps are generally in better condition and often come with original gum. Used stamps, on the other hand, can offer a glimpse into the postal history and can be more affordable for certain rare issues.

Quality of Design and Printing: Pay attention to the quality of stamp design and printing. Look for stamps with attractive artwork, detailed engraving, or interesting designs. Collect stamps from reputable postal administrations known for their high-quality printing standards.

Catalogs and Resources: Utilize stamp catalogs and philatelic resources to research and identify stamps of interest. Publications such as the Scott Catalogue or Michel Catalogue provide comprehensive listings and information on stamps from various countries. Online resources, stamp forums, and local stamp clubs are also valuable sources of information and community engagement.

Storage and Preservation: Proper storage and preservation are essential to protect your stamp collection. Use stamp albums, stockbooks, or archival-quality mounts to store stamps safely. Keep stamps away from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and moisture. Avoid handling stamps with bare hands to prevent oils and contaminants from damaging them.

Networking and Education: Connect with other stamp collectors and enthusiasts to expand your knowledge and share experiences. Attend stamp shows, join stamp clubs or societies, and participate in online forums or social media groups. Networking and learning from fellow collectors can enhance your collecting journey.

Conclusion

Remember that stamp collecting is a personal hobby, and everyone's collecting goals and preferences may differ. Enjoy the process of exploring the world of stamps, discovering new issues, and building a collection that reflects your interests and passions. Happy collecting!

There are several stamps that are particularly sought after and valuable among collectors. Here are some examples:

• Inverted Jenny (United States, 1918): This stamp features an airplane, and a printing error caused a small number of them to be printed upside down. Inverted Jenny stamps are highly prized and can fetch significant prices at auctions.

• British Guiana 1c Magenta (British Guiana, 1856): This is one of the rarest and most valuable stamps in the world. Only one known copy exists, and it last sold for a record-breaking price at auction.
  

• Treskilling Yellow (Sweden, 1855): The Treskilling Yellow is famous for its color error. Originally printed in green, a few stamps were mistakenly printed in yellow. Only a handful of examples exist, making it highly valuable.
  

• Basel Dove (Switzerland, 1845): This stamp is known for its beautiful design featuring a dove in flight. It is considered the first postage stamp issued in Switzerland and is highly sought after by collectors.

• Hawaiian Missionaries (Hawaii, 1851-1852): These stamps were some of the earliest stamps issued in the United States. Due to their rarity and historical significance, they are highly prized by collectors.
  

• Blue Mauritius (Mauritius, 1847): The Blue Mauritius is one of the most famous and valuable stamps in the world. It is known for its unique design and limited quantity, with only a few dozen known to exist.
  

• Penny Black (United Kingdom, 1840): The Penny Black is considered the world's first adhesive postage stamp. While it is not as rare as some other stamps, it is still highly sought after by collectors due to its historical significance.

• Inverted Dendermonde (Belgium, 1920): This stamp was issued with a printing error that caused the design to be inverted. Only a small number of inverted Dendermonde stamps are known to exist, making them highly desirable.

• Red Revenue Small One Dollar Surcharge (China, 1897): This stamp was issued during a period of political unrest in China. Due to its limited production and historical significance, it is highly sought after by collectors.

• Baden 9 Kreuzer Error (Baden, 1851): This stamp was originally printed with a numerical error, with the denomination reading "9" instead of "6." The few surviving examples of this error are highly valuable.

Conclusion

It's important to note that the value and desirability of stamps can fluctuate based on factors such as condition, rarity, demand, and market trends. Collectors should research and consult reputable sources, such as stamp catalogs and experts, to determine the current value of specific stamps.

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