Philately is basically the study of stamps, but a philatelist does not have to collect the stamps they study nor do they have to research the stamps they collect. However, collecting is not the same as philately due to the casual collector enjoys accumulating their stamps without having to worry about the tiny details within a stamp.



Usually, a collectors collection of stamps will tend to be a large collection with the need of philatelic knowledge. Stamp collecting has become a time honored hobby that is enjoyed by collectors all over the world for centuries. The hobby of collecting stamps is an excellent way for individuals to spend their free time and does not have to cost a fortune.

Stamp prices can range from fifteen cents to over half a million dollars. The important thing to remember when starting a collection is to begin slow and learn as much as you can about each type of stamps available. There are various places where any collector can purchase stamps for their collection from, but regardless of where you purchase them from it is vital to know the basics of how to care and store your collection.

Any collector needs a specialized album that is designed for storing your collection of stamps, stamp tongs with a rounded tip for handling your stamps, and a magnifying glass that has the ability to magnify at least ten times for inspecting the details on a stamp. Any magnifying glass with the ability to magnify more than ten times may cause the images to look distorted and is not recommended. Other supplies that a collector may need are glassine envelopes to store or transport individual stamps, a watermark detector to search for hidden watermarks, and a catalog of stamps for identifying various types of stamps. Special pages for your album can be purchased that will reflect the types of stamps you are adding to your collection. Supplies can be purchased at almost business that sells collectible stamps.

The type of stamps a collector decides to collect will depend greatly on the personal preferences of the collector. If you are unsure what types of stamps you would like to focus your collection on, then it may be a good idea to look a variety of stamps in magazines, books, and catalogs. No matter what type of stamps a collector does decide to collect, they will be treasured for their historic value and their beauty.

Theme collections can limit your collection to a particular subject, so it may be important to have a generalized topic. When beginning your collection it may be helpful to purchase a large quantity of used stamps for a reputable dealer, which normally does not cost a whole lot. Often times this proves to all the collector to receive a number of stamps that will cover a variety of topics, plus will allow the new collect a chance to learn how sort stamps based upon countries, landmarks, animals, etc.

Understanding cultures and events within a variety of countries throughout the world enables collectors to gain a higher knowledge of the stamps they add to their collection. Stamp clubs will aid by opening doors for any collector in meeting other collectors to exchanges information surrounding the hobby of stamps. This also gives the collector a chance to exchange stamps with other collectors to create a more interactive hobby.