We know the basics of collecting, including the tools needed for proper care and feeding of one’s stamps. But there is more to that than just getting out the tongs, hinges, mounts and albums and putting stamps in that album.
Certainly there are buying situations that don’t allow for instant album housing of new purchases. Collectors can return from a stamp show exhausted of philatelic enthusiasm temporarily, although it usually returns with the next sighting of a stamp the collector can’t live without.
Here then are some thoughts about what to do with your stamps as a stop-gap measure, assuring that your collection is not just an accumulation of bags, folders and mailing envelopes that contain what would be your collection if you took the time to put it all together properly.
First though, let me add one more item to the basic tools of collecting that is often overlooked: silica gel. This is a must to keep your stamps safely dry. Especially if you don’t have some form of climate control -- I’m not referring to anything fancy, but rather decent air conditioning or the like that maintains a dry environment -- be sure to put your stamps into a sealed container or bag with the gel.
Approval Cards
They will let you see your stamps clearly while protecting them. Available in a variety of sizes, the most popular is the plastic two pocket version, approximately 3 by 5 inches, with a clear protective sheet over the front. If you have a dedicated stamp area in your home, you can get plastic trays to put your cards in and keep within sight. Keeping the objects of your interest in view is another temptation to work on your collection.
Stock books
Manila paged stock books will do fine for used, while perhaps one of the better stock books with glassine pockets and higher quality page paper might be preferable for mint stamps. But remember, stock books should be a temporary lodging place for your stamps useful, until they ultimately find their place in your album.
Hanging file folders for larger items
I’ve felt like something of a philatelic hero when rescuing an item from a dealer who has a large item poorly protected in a too-small protector, or worse, no protection at all. I shudder to think how much value has been lost due to large items being worn down and hurt by being stuffed into a small dealer box or stored somewhere that is meant for smaller items. Souvenir cards and larger presentation sheets all do well in hanging file folders. Put them in a plastic box of the kind available at most office supply stores, add a handful of gel if necessary and you’re good to go.
Acetate page protectors for large items
These are good for easier access and view than the box of file folders. Every collector needs these, combined with basic 3 ring binders for miscellaneous items. There are a number of types, but it is best to get the most rigid that you can find. Again, these are perfect for first day cover programs, large souvenir cards, etc. If you want to show these philatelic items to your fellow collectors you may want to get an attractive higher quality binder.
Top loaders
You put your baseball cards in these when you were a kid. Top loaders come in many sized up to stamp sheet size and beyond. If you buy scarce sheets of stamps you might consider using these for protection. Mint sheet files are fine, although if you’re going to archive them (i.e., not revisit them for years) be sure you have the climate well taken care of, as it doesn’t take much moisture to have the sheet stick to the dividing glassine. Of course with many stamps from the 1990s to present this isn’t a problem as they are self-adhesive, without the gummed back that might cause the sticking problem.
Information about your stamps
It's not a supply or tool for collecting, but it's an essential. It is up to you how much you need to retain about your purchases, but there are basics you must observe to be safe. If your expenditures are significant, you will have to have information for tax time. If you are a casual collector whose stamp budget is minimal, your records will likely need to be minimal as well. At the very least, keep a record of what you paid for the stamp, especially if you plan to sell somewhere down the road.
Become an exhibitor
This is the ultimate solution for dealing with an unorganized collection. It assures you of focus. If the public will be viewing your collection it must be neat and presentable, a veritable philatelic work of art. And you can rest assured that if you are serious about creating an exhibit, your skills will carry through and improve the rest of your philatelic life through the one thing that every collection must have to survive -- organization.
