In philately, “original gum” refers to the gum applied to the back of a postage stamp during its initial production. A stamp with undisturbed, original gum is considered to be in a... Read more »
Specialized binders designed for the organized storage and display of postage stamps, these resources typically feature pages with transparent pockets or mounts, allowing collectors to arrange and protect their collections while showcasing... Read more »
The Milwaukee area offers a rich landscape for philately enthusiasts. Opportunities range from casual trading among local collectors to organized groups and prominent stamp shows featuring dealers from across the country. Individuals... Read more »
Tools and resources used to distinguish and categorize postage stamps vary widely. These can include specialized catalogs, watermark detectors, perforation gauges, and online databases. For example, a collector might use a perforation... Read more »
The pursuit of philately often focuses on acquiring scarce or historically significant postage. These can include stamps with printing errors, limited edition commemoratives, or those with unique cancellations. An example might be... Read more »
The Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue is a comprehensive listing of worldwide postage stamps, providing detailed information such as images, dates of issue, color variations, and, crucially, estimated market values. These values,... Read more »
Thematic philately focusing on scientific advancements, discoveries, and prominent figures provides a unique lens through which to explore the history and evolution of scientific fields. For example, a collection might focus on... Read more »
Beginning a stamp collection involves acquiring stamps and organizing them based on various criteria such as country of origin, historical period, or thematic subject. For example, a collector might focus on stamps... Read more »
The dynamics of supply and demand within the philatelic market are constantly shifting, influenced by factors such as rarity, condition, historical significance, and current collector interest. For example, a newly discovered variety... Read more »
Philately is the study of stamps, postal history, and related items. It encompasses examining everything from individual stamps and their variations to entire postal systems and the historical context surrounding them. For... Read more »