We know stamp collecting goes back to 1774 at the very least as many argue that John Bourke, Receiver General of Stamp Dues in Ireland, was the first collector. More than 200 years ago this man assembled a book of embossed revenue stamps. The hobby spread fast with collectors numbering in the thousands by the mid-nineteenth century. It’s strange how a small piece of paper, whose intended function was to show that you’ve paid the amount to move, insure and register your communications, has become a valuable (sometimes unbelievably so) collector’s item.
Before the advent of the internet, the process of buying a new stamp for your collection had changed very little. The exercise of going to your local post office, manually going through the latest stamp designs, and getting that sheet of crisp fresh stamps, is almost meditative and oddly blissful.
However, there is no denying that a large market exists. In response to such demand, postal departments around the world issue several commemorative stamps every year and due to the number of buyers, they sell out fast. It’s also possible your local post office doesn’t have a wide range of designs or the specific one you’re looking for.
Despite the nostalgic feel, many may associate by buying at the post office, it’s hard to argue that the internet isn’t a convenient alternative, especially if you’re the more meticulous collector. Again, recognizing the advantages the internet would bring, the US Postal Department even started selling stamps and commemorative coins online. You can browse through massive collections and choose what to buy. You won’t be limited by limited stock, or designs being sold out at your local post office.
Even though the US Postal Service website may sell a large range of stamps, it’s difficult to get the more dated and rarer postage stamps on their website. Such stamps go out of print quickly, and if you really want to add it to your collection, then you’ll have to check independent internet websites and online marketplaces. If you’re new to purchasing postage stamps online, then you need to decide beforehand on whether you’re ok with buying a dated stamp that has the cancellation mark, or if you want it squeaky clean. It may be difficult as the older the stamp gets, the more likely it’ll have been used, or in less-than-ideal conditions. It also makes a significant difference on the price point and the cleaner the stamp, the pricier it’ll be.
Different websites follow different formats. Sometimes websites are actual vendors selling different stamps they have in their private collection. They’ll carry out exchanges directly with the customer, and they’ll clearly explain the terms of the purchase and the payment process. On the other hand, some websites follow an auction-type format. If you’re opting for such a platform, ensure that you only deal with websites with positive buyer feedback. A reputable website will ask you to register and verify your account before you can make any purchases or offers. If you want to be even more prudent then you can read the terms and conditions of the website to judge whether you’re comfortable with the transaction process.
The advantages of these websites have to be appreciated. Genuine sellers will display actual pictures instead of stock images and true collectors will even go and provide additional information on the stamps. Additionally, seeing as the US isn’t the only country to issue commemorative stamps, online marketplaces will let you access international stamps as well. You’ll be able to add to your collection extensively with different currencies and foreign and exotic designs. You don’t have to worry about corroborating the information for these different stamps if you refer to the Scotts Catalog. This almanac will give you all the information you need on stamps issued around the world and you’ll be able to corroborate all the information on the website.
It also helps if you’re not an impulsive buyer, as there are a lot out there who can trick you to bid a lot higher than the stamp’s value. You’d also have to factor in shipping costs, as they may end up costing a lot more than the value of the stamp. It’s advisable if you also carry out a search for reviews of the website you’re using. One Google search results page will give you a good amount of information on the website and you can find user reviews and testimonials that aren’t biased and displayed on an independent forum or review platform (like Yelp).
Even if you’re not a collector, and want to use online stamping services for your mail, there are numerous websites to choose from. The USPS website, along with other independent online service providers, let you print postage labels online. You need to simply fill out a form, pay the fee online through your card or other online payment methods, and then print your postage label. You can even do weekly shipping labels if you run a business or want something sent out to a large group of people during the holidays. You do end up saving a lot of time and money. Instead of driving to the post office and waiting in line, just use your computer and finish the entire process in a matter of minutes. If you’re looking for a place with some good offers and discounts, you can check OnlineStamp.net.
The traditional way of purchasing stamps and adding to your collection should be remembered and certainly respected. A hobby that is as historic as it is prolific, one can’t easily forget how it’s evolved over the years. However, the internet offers a certain convenience and accessibility that the traditional way sometimes does not. There may be some pitfalls to navigate but with practice, you’ll enjoy the experience just as much because the ultimate goal is filling your collection with that one missing stamp. The internet may just help you find it.
