Stamp Collecting has Never Been So Easy

by Bob Benson

Collecting stamps has been a popular pastime ever since
there were stamps to collect. Collecting stamps has never
been easier and collecting isn't just for the gray-haired
gentleman who spends his days poring over his stamps.

When collecting stamps, it's important to have at least some
definition of what you're hoping to achieve. Some people collect
only historical stamps. That is, they're only looking for the old,
rare stamps that are highly sought and prized by collectors.
This is a noble goal, but probably not much fun for those without
the finances to make those rare purchases. If you're simply
looking for a great hobby, start searching for unusual stamps
or collect stamps postmarked in other states and/or countries.

Take a look at some ideas that can help you get your stamp
collection off to a good start, or give your current collection a
real boost.

Don't keep your stamp collection a secret. While Great-Aunt
Margie isn't likely to want to sit down and hear the history of
every stamp in your collection, letting her know that you're a
stamp collector could be the best move you've ever made. She
may have a stash of letters in her attic from that special beau
who wrote to her from Europe during World War I! Or she may
have the letters her grandmother sent back home during her
trek across the country in a covered wagon. And she just may
remember to mail you a postcard from her next trip to a foreign
country. The most unlikely people may be the ones to help you
expand your collection, so let family and friends know that you're
collecting stamps.

The Internet can be a very useful tool for those collecting stamps.
All you really need to do is find an online forum for stamp collecting
and start trading stamps with others creating collections similar
to yours. In most cases, you'll be able to send a letter and the
recipient will send one back to you - instantly adding stamps to
your collection. Because this is a relatively inexpensive request,
you may also get people to send you stamps who aren't looking
for a return letter.

Another idea for collecting stamps that works well for youngsters
is to simply be looking for those unusual, strange or "cool" stamps.
Your post office will likely have a good selection and you can let
your child help you choose each time you need a new book of stamps.
Take one off to add to the collection and see how many great stamps
are available. Don't forget that the postal service will also let you
create your own stamps with photos you upload to their website!

Collecting stamps can be a great way to connect with your child,
and can create a hobby that will span a lifetime.

About the AuthorBob Benson is the founder of Stamp Collecting
online. You can check out our website at
http://www.stamp-collecting-supply.info