Stamp collecting is one of the world’s most popular hobbies, satisfying our collecting instincts and providing an insight into the history, geography and culture of the countries whose stamps are collected. Many people find it therapeutic and relief for stress.
If you decide to start collecting again you will want to improve your collection by obtaining more stamps and more information about the hobby.
Obtaining material
Collectors obtain stamps by:
- purchasing new issues from New Zealand Post or other postal agencies;
- buying from dealers or bidding at auctions;
- obtaining stamps from the mail; and
- exchanging stamps with other collectors.
Postal agencies
If you are interested in modern issues of New Zealand you can purchase stamps, first day covers and other products directly from NZ Post. Most Post Shops carry a range of new issues or you can order directly from:
- Collectables and Solutions Centre, Private Bag 3001, Wanganui 4540 or stamps.nzpost.co.nz
Other countries have similar mail facilities or you might prefer to purchase through a local dealer.
Dealers and Auctions
Dealers and auctions are important sources of stamps. Developing a good relationship with a dealer is one of the best ways of obtaining material. Most dealers see a wide range of material and will assist you in obtaining the stamps you need for your collection. For details of dealers near you check the NZSDA web site at www.nzsda.com
Many Stamp Auctions are held throughout the year most of which provide for postal bids. These are run by larger stamp clubs and by dealers. They provide you with the chance of buying material at a price you wish to pay and postal bidding gives you access to material from your own home.
Stamps from the mail
An inexpensive source of stamps for your collection is the mail arriving at your house, your work or from your friends or family. While much of the business mail today uses meters or postage paid imprints there are still many opportunities for obtaining stamps this way. Actually there are many people who collect the meters and imprints as well.
Sometimes the stamps may be more valuable if left on the envelope. If you do take the stamps off there are techniques for doing this without damaging the stamps. Other collectors would be able to advise you on this.
Other collectors
You may already know other collectors. You may also be surprised to discover just which of the people you know also collect.
Stamp clubs
Often the easiest way to find other collectors is to visit your local stamp club. They exist in most areas and welcome visitors. Their membership includes people from a wide range of backgrounds who are interested in stamp collecting. They provide their members with the opportunity to meet like-minded people and to share information about the hobby. Above all they offer the friendship, knowledge and experience of their members who can advise on all aspects of collecting.
Most offer displays and visiting speakers, newsletters or magazines, access to catalogues and books on stamps and opportunities to purchase stamps at reasonable prices through exchange books or sales. For information on stamp collecting please contact your local stamp club.
Details of stamp clubs can be obtained from the NZ Philatelic Federation. Contact the secretary at [email protected] or check this website.
Pen Pals
Many stamp magazines have advertisements from individuals seeking pen pals or exchange opportunities with other collectors. These often prove very successful, leading to long-standing and fruitful exchanges of correspondence and material. Exercise care and build up the exchange slowly to ensure you do not lose valuable material.