Begin Your Journey in U.S. Stamp Collecting
Collecting postage stamps, Philately, isn’t just a hobby—it’s a gateway to a rich and captivating narrative of American history. The world of U.S. stamp collecting unveils an array of historical events, significant personalities, and illustrious cultural representations, serving as tangible symbols of American heritage.
The Origins of U.S. Stamp Collecting: A Historic Overview
The art of stamp collecting began with the issuance of the first postage stamp, the Penny Black, in England in 1840. Even then, nobody could foretell the significance these tiny pieces of paper would acquire. When U.S. Post Office Department released its first stamps in 1847, featuring George Washington and Benjamin Franklin, it initiated a tradition, a robust historical canvas that continues to inspire collectors today.
Why Collect U.S. Stamps?
Understanding stamp value goes beyond their monetary worth; the true value lies in their fascinating narratives. Throughout the decades, U.S. stamps have depicted an amazing blend of historical milestones, famous artworks, notable personalities, and advances in science and technology. Collecting stamps, therefore, offers a unique perspective on our nation’s heritage.
Venture Into U.S. Stamp Collecting: Getting Started
Starting your journey in stamp collection might seem daunting initially, but it becomes immensely rewarding once you delve into this mesmerizing world. Consider starting with modern, easy-to-find stamps, gradually advancing to older, rarer, and more valuable pieces as your collection expands.
Tools of the trade: To ensure the preservation of your collection, invest in some necessary tools like stamp tongs, magnifying glass, stamp albums, and archival quality mount strips. Remember, every stamp has a story, and handling them with care ensures their narratives continue to charm future generations.
Understanding Stamp Eras
Postage stamps offer a distinctive account of different eras in U.S. history, mirroring the changing narratives.
- The Classic Era (1847-1893): This era witnessed the first U.S. stamps, including those featuring George Washington and Benjamin Franklin.
- The Pictorial Era (1869): For the first time, U.S. stamps featured images other than political figures, including an agricultural theme and the symbolic ‘inverted Postage’ stamp.
- The Bureau Issues (1894-1938): The Bureau of Engraving and Printing produced definitive series featuring famous American personalities and landmarks.
- The Modern Era (1932-Present): Stamps reflect changing times and cultural shifts, with a noticeable increase in commemorative series.
Profound knowledge of these eras will enhance your overall stamp collecting experience, giving you a remarkable understanding of the histories embedded within the stamps.
The Art Of U.S. Stamp Collecting: Techniques and Approaches
There’s more to collecting stamps than just acquiring them. You can specialize your collection based on certain themes like important figures, heritage buildings, significant historical events, etc. Stamps can also be collected based on their conditions—mint, used, or covers.
Another popular technique in U.S. stamp collecting is plate block collecting. A plate block comprises four or more unseparated stamps with a bit of margin paper, often including plate numbers. This type of collection offers delights unseen in individual stamps.
The Thrill Of Stamp Hunting
Part of the charm of U.S. stamp collecting lies in the thrill of the hunt. Whether you are scouring through a local flea market, exploring a vintage store, or bidding online, every find could be a potential treasure. The joy of discovering a rare stamp or a coveted addition to your special collection is immeasurable.
Preserving U.S. Heritage through Stamp Collecting
Philately is more than a fascinating hobby; it serves as a tangible reminder of our collective heritage. U.S. stamp collecting invites enthusiasts to become custodians of history, preserving American milestones to pass on to future generations.
In conclusion, U.S. stamp collecting provides a rewarding and deeply satisfying insight into American history. From novice collectors to seasoned philatelists, the world of postage stamps continues to captivate, educate, and inspire.