I've been meaning to post and introduce myself for some time, but never seem to find the time. Well, today is the day I found the time.
I started collecting stamps when I was about 12 yo. My Dad gave me his Modern Scott Album and since he was raised in Tampa Florida, it had a nice starter set of stamps from around the world. But we were now living in small town Nebraska, so there wasn't a wealth of stamps to be gotten off letters. So other than purchasing stamps on approval, my collection didn't grow much. My interest was on US stamps with an emphasis on airmail. One of my first prized possessions was a first day cover from July 20, 1969/ Sep 9, 1969. Like many others, high school, college, and a career interrupted my hobby for the next 40 years.
About 3 years ago I started up again as I came across my old album. I noticed
ebay offered stamps that as a child were completely out of my reach, but now could be acquired. I was hooked once again. I started where I left off with US airmail stamps, but soon took off in different directions. While I still collect US stamps, my primary focus is on France and the colonies. It offers plenty of challenges with a good history and lots of room for expansion. I occasionally drift into other areas, including Canada including the provinces, Denmark, Danzig and Venezuela (arg!). With the help of this website, I've moved onto other sources than
ebay, but still enjoy the hunt for something interesting.
What have I learned since starting again? First and foremost, always use pencil! Next, there is no right or wrong in what you collect or how you choose to organize it. Everybody is different, so I believe it's simply best to do what makes you happy. I do a mix of most everything, Vario binders, albums and dealer cards. I'm organized enough that I feel good about my collection, but disordered enough that I always have something to keep me busy. My goal is to someday have everything inventoried on an Excel Spreadsheet and though this will never come to fruition, it'll make it easier for the next owner.
My favorite stamps are probably my collection of C11 plate blocks – not sure why, it's sort of a compulsion. Stamps on my wish list: US#2, Denmark #1, a mint France #C14, and Danzig #48. What I dislike the most - forgeries!
I would very much like to thank the organizers and members of this website, it's an invaluable asset to the community. I'm very appreciative of everyone's generosity with their time and knowledge. I haven't posted much, only twice. Mostly because I don't yet have the expertise to contribute, but also if I have a question, I prefer the challenge of searching for the answer. So asking for help, is my really my last resort.
FYI: my username, GOSHKRUSE = anagram of GO HUSKERS.
Posted 03/03/2018 7:53 pm
