Hello, My First Post...stamp Collecting Isn't Dead Apparently....

On the very dead stamp forum at a major coin collecting website I frequent, there are very few posts, most of which state that stamp collecting is dead, stamps have no value, etc. What a pleasant surprise to find this forum and discover that stamp collecting is still very much alive.

I recently inherited a mini-hoard of used stamps (ripped off corners of envelopes, not any sort of organized collection). Most of it is more modern 1950s-1980s stuff, which seem to be monetarily worthless, but interesting for variety, subjects, decorative value, etc. I haven't bothered trying to identify (scott's numbers or research values) any of the newer stuff.

There is a however, a very small bit of older stuff (1902-1930s), which I've slowly been working to identify. I've gotten some good tips and info so far by reading the forum. The best tip so far was to purchase the precision u.s. special multi-gauge tool. Its allowed me to navigate these complex Washingtons and Franklins! The stamp smarter website has been invaluable as well. I'm not expecting to find any rarities in these older stamps; just trying to complete the task my father never did...to properly identify anything of value.

At some point, I'll probably need to reach out with some questions about a few foreign stamps in the lot, but I'll mostly be a lurker/reader until then. Thank you!

Welcome.
Don

Those declaring stamps are dead are only looking at the quick buck aspects of stamp collecting where people buy/sell for speculation and not education. Coin collecting offers the former but very little of the latter.

When I went to coin shows (my dad was a part time dealer so worked at his table), it was always about how much can someone make.

Hello from Out West/Down South ( Island of Kawaii - HI )
It seems they sold ALL of the Mr Rogers stamps on the island, have to get more from Oahu ( If they have any left ). Sun, Warm Rain, Wahini's in Bikinis, not a lot of stamp collectors here.

Hello and welcome.

Yes, this is a very active forum and very educational.

The stamp is British Stanley Gibbons cat no230 or 231 depending on shade, keep it on the paper. it is Edward the 7th mailed in July 24th 1902 from the small fishing port Brixham in Devonshire. The cancellation is probably as desirable as the stamp.

Thank you.