Philately Knowledge

Guides and articles for collectors at every level, from your first stamps to postal history and exhibiting. New to the hobby? Start with the beginner's guide.

Care and storageBeginner2 min readSample

How to soak stamps off paper safely

Used stamps on envelope paper can be lifted cleanly with lukewarm water and a little patience. Here is the method collectors rely on, and when not to soak at all.

Stamp identificationIntermediate2 min readSample

Perforations explained: how to measure them

Two stamps can look identical and still be different issues. The perforation gauge is often what tells them apart.

Collecting areasBeginner1 min readSample

First day covers: what makes them collectible

A first day cover captures a new stamp on the day it was issued. Here is what to look for, and how to look after them.

Getting startedBeginner1 min readSample

Choosing a theme for a thematic collection

Thematic collecting lets you build a collection around anything you love. A good theme, chosen well, can grow from a stockbook into an exhibit.