Rare stamps, for stamp collectors, are considered to be the jackpot of stamp collecting. Some people collect stamps simply for fun, while others choose to collect purely for economic reasons. Because the art of stamp collecting is a widespread and popular trend throughout the world, a knowledgeable stamp collector can make some money from their collection. For such stamp collectors who make money from stamps, their main goal is to find stamps that have printed errors on them or those categorized as rare stamps because these can make a profit.
What are Rare Stamps?
Ever since the first postage stamp in 1840, thousands of different stamps have been issued all around the world. Most of these stamps cost very little to acquire. As for rare stamps, there are those that exist in very small numbers, and oftentimes, these rare stamps are considered to be the most important of their particular countries. As no one can go back in time to print a particularly special stamp, nor can they replicate a print error that was missed in the late 1800s or early 1900s. Every stamp collector’s ideal is to acquire rare stamps for their collection. For a stamp to be considered as rare, it depends on how many of these stamps were produced, how many exist today, and how few of them exist in a very good condition.How to Find and Collect Rare Stamps
Identifying rare stamps can be difficult, especially for those who are new to collecting identifying, rare stamps requires a fair amount of
knowledge on stamps and stamp collecting. As a stamp collector, you must know the factors that influence the rarity and value of a certain piece of stamp. It is extremely crucial that stamp collectors are armed with ample knowledge so that they can avoid paying more than a stamp’s real worth and also to avoid missing stamps that may be very valuable.The first step in collecting stamps is to familiarize yourself with specific stamp words known as philatelic terms because they usually describe the condition of a stamp and, in the end, its value. Philatelic terms are often used by stamp sellers to describe their stamps. Thus, by familiarizing themselves with the commonly-used philatelic terms, stamp collectors can identify the type and condition of the stamp quickly and easily, most especially when they are buying online and cannot inspect it up close and in person. Some of the most common yet important terms that a stamp collector must know are: gum and hinged because these two significantly influence the value or price of a stamp. Never-hinged stamps are worth more than hinged ones, while rare stamps in mint condition are worth even more. Stamp collectors must be vigilant when checking a stamp’s condition because some dishonest sellers may re-gum or re-perforate a stamp to increase its price. You will also want to know how to protect your rare stamps.