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Beginner’s Guide to Stamp Collecting

Valuable basic information every stamp collector should have.

  • All Learning ArticlesLearn about the wonderful world of stamp collecting. Whether you’re a beginner or a veteran, you’ll find something useful here.
  • Beginner’s GuideValuable basic information every stamp collector should have.
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    • 1847–1899 US Stamp Sets & SeriesFun information on US stamps and series from 1847–1899.
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Civil War-Era Adversity and Patriotic Covers

Civil War-Era Adversity and Patriotic Covers

The American Civil War was not only a conflict of armies but also a clash of cultures and resources. Among the most poignant and collectible artifacts from this era are adversity covers and patriotic covers.

Read More Civil War-Era Adversity and Patriotic CoversContinue

Why Collect Stamp Blocks and Strips of Four?

Why Collect Stamp Blocks and Strips of Four?

The broad appeal for blocks is scarcity or rarity, and eye appeal (blocks of 4 are balanced and pretty).

Read More Why Collect Stamp Blocks and Strips of Four?Continue

Not Everything You Read Online Is True—Why Reliable Sources Matter in Stamp Collecting

Not Everything You Read Online Is True—Why Reliable Sources Matter in Stamp Collecting

The internet has made it easier than ever to research and expand a stamp collection. With just a few clicks, you can find information on just about any stamp ever issued. But as convenient as this is, it also comes with risks—not everything you read online is accurate.

Read More Not Everything You Read Online Is True—Why Reliable Sources Matter in Stamp CollectingContinue

Cinderella Stamps: What are they?

Cinderella Stamps: What are they?

Cinderella stamps are fascinating non-postal labels that often tell unique stories and add an extra layer of charm to a collection.

Read More Cinderella Stamps: What are they?Continue

Grab Bags: A Fun Way to Collect Stamps

Grab Bags: A Fun Way to Collect Stamps

Are you interested in starting or expanding a stamp collection, but not sure where to begin? A stamp grab bag might be the ideal solution.

Read More Grab Bags: A Fun Way to Collect StampsContinue

How to Identify Colors on Postage Stamps

How to Identify Colors on Postage Stamps

Identifying the colors on postage stamps can be a surprisingly complex task. Over the years, stamps have been printed with various inks and techniques, creating color variations that collectors prize.

Read More How to Identify Colors on Postage StampsContinue

Protect Your Collection with Stamp Mounts

Protect Your Collection with Stamp Mounts

When it comes to preserving your stamp collection, one of the easiest and most effective methods is using stamp mounts. These simple tools protect your stamps from wear and tear, ensuring they remain in pristine condition for years to come.

Read More Protect Your Collection with Stamp MountsContinue

A Quick Guide to Perforation Gauges and How to Use Them in Stamp Collecting

A Quick Guide to Perforation Gauges and How to Use Them in Stamp Collecting

A perforation gauge is a tool used to measure the number of perforation holes along the edge of a stamp within a space of 2 centimeters. It provides a precise measurement of a stamp’s perforations, which can differ between issues and even between varieties of the same stamp.

Read More A Quick Guide to Perforation Gauges and How to Use Them in Stamp CollectingContinue

What Does Back-of-the-Book Mean?

What Does Back-of-the-Book Mean?

The term “Back-of-the-Book” refers to stamps and postal items that are not considered part of the regular postage issues. These are typically found in the back section of stamp catalogs, hence the name.

Read More What Does Back-of-the-Book Mean?Continue

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  • US Stamps
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