Identifying Loose Stamps

I'm new to this, so go easy with me. How can you tell the reference number of a stamp not obtained with a catalog number? In other words if I buy loose stamps how can I tell where they go in my albums that have numbered spots? I apologize for my lack of knowledge on this simple question. Thanks in advance.

Best to pick up a cheap, used catalogue. If you're near a library, it may have a set.

Find it in the catalogue - which can be easier said than done, I know.

Easier if they are older than, say, 1970, when there were fewer issues. Clues like the standard of printing, whether it's one-colour or multi, the denominations, currency, country naming convention, ruler/monarch depicted etc - these can all give you clues to the general period.

Scan the catalogue for similar signs on other stamps and you'll know you're in the right period, and you can hopeully locate and identify it.

If not, post a pic on here!

Also, many countries print the date on the stamp, but you may need a magnifier to see it.

Are the catalogs like Scott? Mystic?

Hi Jericho,

Yes Scott has produced worldwide catalogs for many years. Second hand sets can be found cheaply I'm sure!

Many libraries have circulating copies of Scott's. Or worst case if yours only has reference copies, you can bring stamps with you to the library to catalog them.

thanks all for the replies and help