Hi everyone,
I'm new to the world of philately. I've been attempting to research the value of three collections that I have
inherited.
The initial intent was to sell the collections but I must say that I've become fascinated by it all. I am an artist by trade and a avid history buff so it has been quite an interesting journey so far.
I am forced to sell the most valuable stamps due to my families immediate financial need but I think I would enjoy continuing the collections myself.
We have 2 small children and we own our own business, so devoting hours to researching has been a bit overwhelming at times. The more I know the more it seems I don't know...if that makes any sense.
I'm not expecting to get rich as I've learned that age doesn't necessarily mean value, But I want to educate myself and make sure I know what it is I have.
I feel blessed to have these collections and I intend to give them their due respect. Online research and the use of my local library's Scott catalog has been the plan so far.
The oldest of the collections is a 1924 edition of the International Junior Postage Stamp Album by Scott. Most of the stamps are from the 19th century but most are used. I've been intrigued to learn a little about the desirability of old cancels and of overprints. I have many questions.
I also have many old "cut squares"...which to my relief, may have diminished value, but is indeed not worthless as I first feared.
As a lover of antiques, I felt like I was ruining the collection by removing the stamps I identified so far. As beautiful as the stamps look in these old books, I know how distructive the acids are in nonarchival paper. So I've been dehinging, cataloging and storing them in proper mounts until I am able to sell or properly archive them. Hope this was the right move.
The other book is also an International album from Scott but from the 1940's. Many of these are not used but have been hinged unfortunately. Most of these are quite stunning in my opinion.... art deco in style, bold and beautiful.
The last collection is a small lined notebook from the late 40's through the 60's I believe. Most of those are US stamps with interesting overprints.
I'm hoping to learn alot from you lovely people! Thank you in advance for your advice and attention.
I'll be scanning some stamps very soon for your inspection. If you have any suggestions as to what may be of particular interest, please let me know!
any guidance given will be humbly appreciated!
Thank you again!
Posted 10/06/2011 9:36 pm
to S.C.F.! It sounds like you got a wonderful collection handed down to you so I would have to urge you not to sell anything especially the "high value" stamps just yet anyway. The more you learn the more you'll know about how to go about selling them to the right person for the right price. Plus who knows you might not want to after all the knowledge you will have gained! I hope you stay aboard and ask lots of questions and we just love pictures & scans! -Jay
