Types of Stamp Collections

Stamp collecting is a hobby for the ages. It's fun, educational and rewarding. These miniature works of art not only serve the practical purpose of moving the mail along, they encompass history, science, art, nature and humanity all within an area of less than one square inch.

Start your collection

Novice stamp collectors can jump start their collection by taking the stamps off incoming mail, the mail of family and friends or buying used stamps online. This is an easy way to gather a variety of different stamps at once. From here, you can sort them into different types of collections.

Definitives

Stamp collections can be made up of definitive stamps, which are the most common type of stamp. Flags, buildings, presidents and political leaders have graced these types of stamps. They come in a variety of denominations and are printed--or issued--many at a time, so their value isn't likely to increase for many years because they are plentiful.

Commemoratives

Commemorative stamps are colorful, more intricate in design and increase in value faster than definitives because commemoratives are issued in limited numbers for a limited time. They are called commemorative because they commemorate an event, such as the Olympics or special anniversaries.

First Day Covers

Another type of stamp collection revolves around First Day Covers. When a new stamp is issued for the first time, collectors will affix the stamp to a special envelope or post card and have the item post marked on the day the stamp was issued.

Sort by subject

Sorting your stamps by subject, called topical collecting, is a fun way to add to your collections. Flowers and birds on stamps are popular, and so are animals such as cats, dogs and all sorts of wild animals. You might collect cars, airplanes or trains on stamps.

Resources

• American Philatelic Society