What is Stamp Collecting
In their Collector Series Brochure No 1, the Australian Philatelic Federation (APF) have described Stamp Collecting as follows -
Stamp collecting is one of the world’s most popular hobbies, and is well known as “The hobby of kings and the king of hobbies.” Ever since a young Victorian lady advertised in The Times for Penny Blacks to wallpaper her room, stamps have fascinated and delighted collectors.
Millions of people around the world collect stamps and as many as one person in four in Australia has collected stamps at some time in their life.
Collecting stamps satisfies our collector instincts while providing an insight into the history, geography and culture of the countries whose stamps we collect.
Besides being educational, stamp collecting is fun!
It is a hobby suitable for all ages from youngsters of six or seven to adults in their nineties. It is a hobby that offers tremendous scope from casual collecting of stamps from the mail to detailed studies of printing methods and postal and social history.
Whether you are interested in the whole world or only one small specialized part of it, you will find a kindred spirit out there with a similar interest. Stamp collecting transcends national boundaries and offers a peaceful hobby that is enjoyed by millions worldwide.
Stamp collecting, in all its facets, is truly a window on our past, our present and our future. More is written each year about this hobby than any other. Stamp collecting will carry you through life and offers you exercise for the brain - a key ingredient to a long and healthy life.
There are two key elements in this description; firstly, stamp collecting is a hobby, and secondly, it should be enjoyable. In addition, collecting can promote feelings of well being. Just imagine the thrill of tracking down a hard to find item; the satisfaction when it is finally run to ground; the pride that comes from viewing your material mounted in exhibition frames. If you prefer a real challenge, you may become involved in research. Discovering new information can give you a feeling of euphoria that lasts for many weeks.