With Easy Live Auction, accessing collectable stamps from around the globe has never been easier.

Stamp collecting, or philately, has long been a valued hobby that connects people with history, art, and culture. With their often-vibrant colours and intricate designs, as well as the stories they tell, stamps present a unique glimpse into world of times past, and a rewarding experience for collectors of all ages.

With Easy Live Auction, accessing collectable stamps from around the globe has never been easier.

Browse Stamp Lots here.

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The History of Stamp Collecting

Stamp collecting began almost as soon as the first tangible postage stamp, the Penny Black, was issued in Great Britain in 1840. Early collectors were captivated, deeming these miniature works of art, which featured intricate designs, portraits of monarchs, and symbols of nations. As global communication expanded, so did the variety and availability of stamps, thus solidifying the growth of philately as a popular hobby.

Penny Black stamps are highly sought-after at Philatelic auctions and are frequently found at Easy Live Auction.

This Penny Black stamp is Lot 326 in Lymington Auctions’ 7^th November sale, starting 10:00 pm GMT.  

View catalogue here.

Throughout the 19^th and 20^th centuries, stamp collecting gained widespread popularity, particularly amongst children and young adults. It was seen as an educational pastime, teaching geography, history, and culture through the study of stamps from different countries. Major exhibitions and philatelic societies were established, and some of the world’s most famous figures, including King George V and Franklin D. Roosevelt, were avid collectors.

Today, online bidding platforms like Easy Live Auction have transformed the way collectors acquire stamps, offering access to a vast array of auctions from around the world, making it easier than ever to start or build upon your collection.

Why Collect Stamps?

Stamp collecting offers a combination of education, creativity, and personal satisfaction.

So why does this hobby continue to captivate people of all ages?

1. Historical and Cultural Significance

Stamps are tiny windows into the past that commemorate significant events, honour notable individuals, and celebrate cultural milestones. By merely collecting stamps, you can gain snippets of knowledge about historical events, national symbols, and important figures from around the world. Each stamp tells a story, and in turn, each story creates a rich tapestry in any collection.

Post Offices in the Ottoman Empire. 1884-1912 Mint and used collection with many additional stamps, shades, pieces and cancels. This lot will be featured in Argyll Etkin’s 7^th November sale, starting 10:30 am GMT.

View Lot here

2. Affordable and Accessible

Stamp collecting is one of the most accessible hobbies around. You can start with just a few stamps and build your collection over time. While rare stamps can be valuable, many collectors find joy in accumulating stamps that are easily affordable. Local post offices, online auctions, and stamp dealers offer a wide range of stamps to suit every budget.

For those looking to expand their stamp collection, Easy Live Auction provides an excellent platform to bid on stamps from prestigious auction houses.

For those looking to build a collection of world stamps, this large quantity of GB and World Stamps including 5x Stanley Gibbons printed albums, would make a great start. It can be found in Hawleys Auctioneers & Valuers’ 23^rd November antiques and fine arts sale, commencing 10 am GMT.

View catalogue here.

3. A Creative Outlet

Organising and displaying your stamp collection is an art form in and of itself. Collectors often take pride in arranging their stamps by theme, country, or era, creating beautifully curated albums that reflect their interests. The process of selecting, categorising, and preserving stamps allows collectors to succinctly express their creativity while also developing a deep knowledge of their chosen themes.

4. A Relaxing Hobby

In our fast-paced, digital-first world, stamp collecting offers a peaceful retreat. Sorting through stamps, researching their origins, and carefully placing them in an album can be a meditative experience. It’s a hobby that encourages patience, attention to detail, and a love for learning—all of which contribute to a sense of well-being.

5. Connections Across Generations

Stamp collecting has a distinctive ability to bridge generations. Grandparents and parents can share their collections with younger family members, passing on knowledge and instilling a love for the hobby. Stamp clubs, exhibitions, and platforms like Easy Live Auction provide opportunities for collectors of all ages to connect, exchange ideas, and learn from one another.

Good quality Antigua stamps, mainly mint condition, in Eastbourne Auctions’ 4-day November sale, commencing 12^th November.

View Lot here.

Tips for Successful Stamp Collecting

If you're new to stamp collecting or looking to refine your approach, these tips will help you get the most out of your philatelic journey:

1. Start with a Focus

While it’s tempting to collect every stamp you come across, it’s a good idea to start with a specific focus to make your collection more meaningful. You might choose to collect stamps from a particular country, era, or even a specific theme, such as animals, famous people, or historical events. This focus will help guide your purchases and make your collection more cohesive.

2. Invest in Proper Storage

Stamps are delicate and require proper care to maintain their value. Invest in quality storage solutions, such as stamp albums with acid-free pages, to keep your collection safe from damage. Always handle stamps with tongs to prevent oils from your fingers transferring to the paper, and store your collection in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

3. Research Before You Buy

Before purchasing a stamp, especially at auction, take the time to research its history, condition, and market value. This research will help you make informed decisions and avoid overpaying for items. Easy Live Auction offers detailed descriptions and provenance information for stamps, making it easier for you to assess the value of potential additions to your collection.

When in doubt, Easy Live Auction’s auctioneers are happy to provide a condition report. Contact them directly with any questions you may have pertaining to the condition or authenticity of an item.

4. Attend Auctions and Join Clubs

Participating in auctions and joining stamp clubs can greatly enhance your collecting experience.

Auctions, such as those hosted on Easy Live Auction, allow you to bid on rare collectable stamps, often at competitive prices. Joining a stamp club can provide you with opportunities to meet fellow collectors, exchange stamps, and gain valuable insights into philately.

Stamp Collecting — A Pursuit of a Lifetime

Stamp collecting is a hobby that grows with you. Be it for youngsters just starting out or seasoned collectors with decades of experience, there’s always something new to discover. The world of philately is vast, encompassing countless stamps, stories, and connections waiting to be explored.

The beauty of stamp collecting lies in its ability to offer something for everyone—be it the excitement of finding a rare stamp, the satisfaction of completing a themed collection, or merely the joy of immersing yourself in a particular time or culture.

So why not start your own collection today? With Easy Live Auction, you can easily access a wide range of stamps, making it easier than ever to start a hobby in philately.

Register now and browse across over 400 auctioneers’ catalogues to start your collection today.