A question that may be on the front of your mind is, “What are the best postage stamps to collect?”
The truth is, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. The ‘best’ stamps for you depend really depend on why you’re collecting in the first place. Over the years, I’ve seen collectors collect due to all sorts of motivations, from being ‘the one’ to own a specific rare item, to pure enjoyment, to fascination and curiosity. It is this motivation that determines what postage stamps are best for you.
I’d like to take you through some of the most common reasons people collect stamps and share what I think are the best stamps for each. This might give you some ideas of where you want to focus your collecting interests.
If you are still stuck after reading this, I’ve also written a comprehensive list of collection ideas.
Let’s dive in.
Investment Potential
If you’re eyeing stamps as a potential investment, I’ll be honest – it’s a risky business and not one I would recommend. The idea of which stamps are valuable and popular has shifted in many ways. I’m not saying its impossible to use stamps as an investment, but I would advise caution. In my opinion there are a lot safer options out there.
For investment-minded collectors, I’d recommend looking into iconic stamps. These would include fine examples of early issues like the Penny Black, rare error stamps such as the Inverted Jenny, or limited edition culturally-popular, commemoratives. Maybe consider stamps which have an extra layer of curiosity such as being sent by a famous person or marking a significant event.
At the rate current postal prices are going up here in the UK, I see ‘1st’ class denominated stamps as a decent investment. Unlike stamps where the face value is specified e.g. £1.25, those with ‘2nd’ or ‘1st’ will always shift their value according to the current first class postage price designated by Royal Mail. So, a 1st class stamp bought for £0,19 in 1988, would now be worth £1.65 (as of 7th Oct 2024). This is an increase of 768%. Not a bad return, right? I wouldn’t quite get that amount back for various reasons, but I wouldn’t complain! (👈 don’t take this as investment advice please)
But a word of caution from someone who has inherited ‘investment quality stamps’ always do your research and seek expert advice before making significant investments. The stamp market can be volatile, and building an investment-grade collection requires a hefty – therefore risky – budget and a long-term perspective. Unless of course you become really famous, then your stamp collection may have a premium 🤣
Historical Interest and Postal History
I find the historical aspect of stamp collecting fascinating. When I started collecting I learnt so much about where everything in the world was, and the history of political and national events. Each stamp, is like a tiny time capsule, offering a glimpse of past correspondence. It started in one place in the world, and travelled a potentially huge distance, perhaps to a new country, and maybe even back again.
If you’re historically curious, I’d suggest focusing on a historical time-period or a specific event. For example, war-time stamps are popular, as are royal family-focused issues. For a deeper dive into postal history, collecting covers (envelopes or postcards with stamps and postal markings) alongside stamps can offer additional context about mail handling in different periods. In a way it reminds me of the game of Cluedo – you have to work out who did what and where they did it. Some collectors have created amazing collections and pieced together incredible stories as they collect stamp history from around the world.
If you can find some aspect of stamps which re-create a story from the past, this is immensely satisfying and valuable.
Cultural Exploration and Thematic Interest
One of the things I love most about stamp collecting is how it allows me to explore different cultures from the comfort of my own home. If you’re interested in exploring the world or have specific topics you’re passionate about, thematic, or country-based collecting might be what is best for you.
I am passionate about plants, so I collect any plant stamps which catch my eye. One day I would like to build up a botanical collection, arranged by plant family and species. Kind of like building up an ID guide. Others themes you could consider are kids cartoons and cult movies and books like Harry Potter. If there is a country you are particularly fascinated by, as I am Australia, then a country-focused collection could be a good idea. The key is to choose themes that genuinely interest you – it keeps the collecting journey enjoyable and motivating.
Relaxation and Enjoyment
Sometimes, after a long day, there’s nothing I enjoy more than sitting down with my stamp collection and having a good rummage. I find the process of sorting, arranging, and cataloguing stamps incredibly relaxing. I could make it my day job … wait a minute 🤔…
If you’re in it purely for enjoyment like I often am, I’d recommend focusing on visually appealing stamps; those stamps that make you feel a little warmer inside when you look at them. Personally, I love nature stamps and stamps with that vintage look – off-white paper, yellowing with age perhaps… Many modern stamps also use impressive printing techniques which make them all the more unusual too. There are stamps that smell like flowers, and chocolate, or those made with fabric or metals.
Don’t feel pressured to build the most valuable or comprehensive collection if this is your motivation. If you’re collecting for fun, let your personal taste be your guide. Which stamps make you go ‘ooooh’? Just collect them all together in an inspiring album and spend a little time each week reconnecting with what makes you happy.
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Now, where were we…
Challenge and Accomplishment
For those of you who love a good challenge, stamp collecting can be incredibly rewarding. That feeling when you complete a stamp set is immensely fulfilling. I collect used GB and like to track the stamps down from various sources; i.e. I don’t buy stamps as a set typically. This means it takes me a while to complete a set but makes it all the more rewarding when I do.
If you’re up for a challenge, I’d suggest setting specific goals. Perhaps make a checklist to carry round with you. Maybe try to collect all the stamps issued by a particular country in a given year, or hunt down stamps with specific printing techniques like holograms or embossing. Even just focus on completing your favourite sets within a given country or year. Remember to set yourself a budget, because costs can easily mount!
Nostalgia and Family Tradition
Stamp collecting, for me, is also deeply tied to family tradition. It was my dad that got me into collecting. I have inherited by gran’s, aunt’s, sister’s and dad’s collections! It feels a bit like I’m the one left flying the flag.
If nostalgia is your driving force, consider focusing on stamps from years or countries that hold personal significance. I wouldn’t have normally collected mint Bermuda, but since my gran started the collection I feel a certain obligation to at least attempt to continue it. I mentioned it above, but I have a connection with Australia too as this is where my other Auntie and Uncle stay.
I’ve also found that stamps featuring childhood themes or characters can be extra fun too. They never fail to bring a smile to my face and can help to get others inspired and thinking about stamps too.
Rarity and Unique Finds
Finally, let’s talk about the thrill of the hunt. There’s nothing quite like the excitement of finding a rare or unusual stamp. Something of which you are the single owner. I quite like covers for this reason.
While the ultra-rare stamps like the British Guiana 1c Magenta are out of reach for most of us (myself included!), there is always the hope one day we will find something ultra rare and valuable. But sometimes that may not be in monetary terms. Even on a modest budget, you can participate in this excitement (see image above 👆).
My advice? Attend stamp shows, join collector groups, and spend time examining stamps carefully. Some of my best finds have come when I least expected them!
In conclusion, the ‘best’ stamps to collect are those that align with your personal interests, goals, and budget. Whether you’re in it for investment, history, culture, relaxation, challenge, nostalgia, or the thrill of the hunt, there are stamps out there perfectly suited to you. The world of philately is vast and varied, offering something for every collector. So dive in, explore, and discover the stamps that resonate with you – your perfect collection awaits!
Annette x