Selling A Stamp Collection

The Fascinating World of Stamps

Postage stamps are miniature works of art that tell stories of history, culture, and human achievement. Whether you're a lifelong collector or have inherited a collection, understanding stamps can help you appreciate their value and make informed decisions about buying or selling.

Types of Stamps

Definitive Stamps

Regular issue stamps used for everyday postage. British definitives include the iconic Machin design featuring Queen Elizabeth II, one of the longest-running stamp designs in history.

Commemorative Stamps

Special issues celebrating events, anniversaries, or notable people. These are produced in limited quantities and often become collectible.

Postal History

Stamps on original envelopes or postcards, especially First Day Covers, postal stationery, and items with interesting postal markings.

Errors and Varieties

Stamps with printing errors, color varieties, or perforation irregularities can be extremely valuable to specialist collectors.

Popular Stamp Collecting Areas

Great Britain

Home of the world's first postage stamp, GB collecting ranges from Victorian classics to modern issues. Key areas include:

• Line-Engraved Victorian stamps
• King Edward VII and King George V
• Machin definitives and varieties
• Modern commemoratives and special issues

British Commonwealth

Empire and Commonwealth stamps offer vast collecting possibilities, from classic Victorian colonies to modern independent nations.

Thematic Collecting

Many collectors focus on themes like birds, ships, sports, or space exploration, gathering stamps from multiple countries on their chosen subject.

Starting a Stamp Collection

If you're new to stamp collecting:

• Start with a country or theme that interests you
• Invest in a good stamp album and basic supplies
• Join a stamp club or society for knowledge and trading
• Buy a catalogue to help identify and value stamps
• Handle stamps carefully with stamp tongs, never fingers
• Store stamps in a cool, dry place away from sunlight

Selling Your Stamp Collection

When it's time to sell stamps, whether from inheritance, downsizing, or changing interests, professional valuation is essential. SellMyStamps.co.uk offers:

• Free, expert valuations from qualified philatelists
• Options for direct sale or auction
• Fair market prices based on current demand
• Professional handling of collections large and small
• Quick turnaround and secure payment

Stamp Terminology

Understanding common philatelic terms:

• Mint: Unused stamp in original condition
• MNH (Mint Never Hinged): Mint stamp with perfect gum
• Used: Stamp that has been postally used
• CTO (Cancelled To Order): Stamps cancelled without postal use
• FDC (First Day Cover): Envelope with stamps cancelled on issue date
• Watermark: Pattern in paper visible when held to light
• Perforation: The small holes between stamps

View our full Glossary of Philatelic terms here on SellMyStamps.co.uk