To know the real secret about collecting is quite easy and simple -- that it really should only be for the fun and interest it affords you. For many, the thrill is always in the hunt. Garage sales, flea markets, curio and antique shops, used stores, following leads to almost anywhere. In fact, the achievement of getting a stamp is sometimes a letdown, for then the hunt is over. Not for long, fortunately, for there's always another stamp to find or you may find the one you are looking for later.



Starting a stamp collection is easy -- you pick stamps and start collecting them. Because stamps are in such ready numbers it is one of the easiest collections to start. Before long, though, you may want to know what's available in your particular area, and then you can find magazines and periodicals which cover almost everything to do with stamps and collecting them. Postage stamps are miniature art prints that circulate to millions of people each year.

In this modern age, however, there's a wonderful tool that can enhance your hobby - the Internet. If you go online, you can not only find information about your collectibles, but where to find them and, most important, you can talk to people by e-mail who has similar interests.

As your collection grows, you should find a way to display your work. What's the point of having such a magnificent collection if you can't show it off? There are lots of ways to do this; from simple shelves to display cases, glass-topped display tables, specially designed albums, even an entire room dedicated to your hobby. The point is - don't hide what you do and take pride that there's a focus to your interests.

Remember, however, that your family may not share either your interest in your hobby or see any worth in what you've accumulated. For this reason, it may be worthwhile to see that your collection will go to someone who values it after you've gone. This may involve a person who shares your passion or, perhaps, a library or museum.

There again, you can use the Internet to offer your collection for sale. Advertise in one of the collecting magazines and, perhaps, if what you have is of value, donate it to a university or museum that will issue a tax receipt you can use as a deduction on the understanding that the collection goes to the institution when you depart this mortal coil for places yet unexplored.

You never know where collecting will lead you, but you can be assured of hours, weeks, even years of enjoyment, and you'll never have a hobby that will bring you more satisfaction than stamp collecting.