Guide to Stamp Collecting by Janet Klug

If you or someone you know are looking to start a stamp collection this is the book to get. It explains the hobby in an easily understood fashion without sacrificing detail or accuracy. Experienced collectors will learn something new from it. It is a valuable addition to any collector library.

There are a lot of introductory philately books available today, and it takes a lot to stand out. Guide to Stamp Collecting does just that. Author Janet Klug is an experienced stamp collector, a past president of the American Philatelic Society and Vice-Chairman of the National Postal Museum’s Council of Philatelists. With this book she offers a solid introduction to philately, a detailed guide to stamps and stamp collecting.

The book does an excellent job of explaining the history of postal service and the postage stamp, as well as how stamps are made. A clear understanding of the range and possibilities for collecting is given, including a detailed look at the numerous possibilities of postal history. A detailed examination of the different printing methods for stamps is both fascinating and useful in identifying different varieties of stamp issues.

The various tools used by stamp collectors are not only described, but instructions are given on how to utilize them effectively. In regards to buying stamps, Klug presents the whole range of options, from traditional stamp shows and bourses to the internet. Forgeries, fakes and the sometimes complex art of grading stamps are explained clearly. She also offers advice on potential threats to stamps from the environment and how they can be remedied or minimized. The social aspects of philately are not neglected with information on stamp clubs, stamp shows and other collecting networks.

There are copious pictures and illustrations of stamps and other postal items, as well as sidebars that are both interesting and educational. This work is one of the better introductions to the hobby you can find. It is highly recommended for both beginning collectors as well veterans who want to have the foundations of philately in one book. It would also be a perfect gift to get someone into stamp collecting.