Whether you’re a stamp collector, inherited a massive stamp collection, found several ‘rare’ stamps on an old letter from your drawer, or stashed a few limited edition stamps away as they looked cool, there are various ways on how you can make the most of these distinctive collections.
Can You Make Money With Your Stamps?
Having a rare vintage collection of unused and excellent condition stamps is somewhat financially beneficial. While it may not sound like a significant investment, there are places that buy stamps at a great value, varying on rarity and overall stamp condition. If you’re ready to let go of these tiny art pieces, then read along as we’ll give the best ways on how to make the most of your stamp stash.
Stamp collection has a long history, and at the moment, there are thousands of collectible and rare stamps waiting to be part of your collections. If you have several limited edition stamps in excellent condition, selling them sooner can be a great deal, especially for dedicated philatelists and collectors.
Understanding the ins and out of stamp collection and how to sell your postage stamps can get you to generate more income. There’s a diverse stamp category to trade, including:
- US stamps
- Sheets
- Foreign stamps
- Used stamps
- Mint stamps
- Singles
- Blocks
- Albums
- Modern stamps
- Vintage stamps
Before you start selling your stamp collection, there are several essential factors that you’ll need to consider. The value of your stamps falls between two major categories; stamps issued before and after 1930. That means all stamps that are issued after 1930 have a higher face value.
These stamps are valued by their denomination printed on their designs. For instance, if you own a US postage stamp that says 3 cents, it’ll be worth 3 cents if you sell it today.
There are plenty of standard stamps issued in the years before 1930. However, tons of rare stamps are being distributed in these years, which aim to fetch higher prices from various collectors. Apart from the stamp’s age, rarity also plays an integral part in its overall value.
Where Can You Convert Stamps for Cash?
Selling your stamps is one of the best ways to convert these tiny pieces into cash. You can sell them.
➢ Online
One of the best ways to convert your stamps into cash is digital. This is one of the most convenient ways to transform your collection or allow collectors to find what they are long searching for. In case you want to ensure purchasing legitimacy, you can also sell them in person in various ways and help others evaluate your stamp value.
➢ Stamp dealers
To get quick cash with your stash of stamps, you can sell them through stamp dealers close to your area. There are various websites where you can find the closest stamp dealers near you, including National Stamp Dealers’ Association and the American Philatelic Society.
➢ Yard sales
If selling online is not your best option, you can try selling them in person, like organizing or participating in a yard sale. This is also a great way to meet other collectors and understand a different perspective about stamp collection.
➢ Pawnshops
While you can get a better deal selling your collections from other resources, pawn shops are also an option to get cash with stamps. In case you tried other options and haven’t found a client for your stamps, this won’t hurt trying this option. Before selling your collection, try getting a quote of how much you’ll earn and weigh your options from there.
➢ Stamp shows
Consider participating in stamps shows. One downside about this option is that you’ll need to rent a booth or table to be part of the show, mainly if you have limited collections to sell. This is particularly beneficial and highly recommended for people with extensive stamp collections.
While stamp collection is a tangible investment, several collectors will go off the traditional track to search for rare stamps and complete their distinctive collections.
At first, this can be a simple hobby, but moving forward, you might be surprised that your collections are worth more than what you first invest in. Once you get a great deal from high-end, rare, or limited edition stamps, you can start selling them for increased profit.
Conclusion
Giving your stamps a second life and a place where they will be taken care of more efficiently is a noble thing to do. Achieving the best possible care for your stamps by restoring their appearance and quality through eradicating dirt and dust is a noble act. After they have been polished, you can sell your collections for cash.