Foreign Stamp Collecting

A stamp collector who concentrates on Foreign stamp collecting would generally need to have at least an idea, if not sound knowledge of most topics dealing with stamps and postal histories of various countries. For someone acquainted with the field of stamp collecting, this could be termed as philatelic knowledge. This does not mean that a person without philatelic knowledge cannot take up this highly interesting and exciting hobby. It can be taken up by just about anyone of any age group, provided the person has sufficient interest in the topic. Knowledge of this particular field would come into play at a latter stage when the collection grows in size and your aim is for it to be both comprehensive and professional.

For a beginner who is keen to collect stamps of some countries around the world, which interest him, buying stamp packets from a stamp dealer is the easiest and cheapest method to start off. For someone taking up foreign stamp collecting seriously, having sound knowledge about the topic of stamps before spending large amounts of money for the purchase of stamps, is essential. Postage stamps generally give you an insight into the history, geography and culture of a particular country. One gets to learn many interesting facts on varied subjects the world over in a very exciting manner. This stream of stamp collecting educates the person concerned in a big way and contributes towards increasing a person's general knowledge because of the immense diversity of topics in this field.

Mentioned here, is an interesting point for someone who would like to take up the hobby of foreign stamp collecting. Estimates reveal that there are roughly about 4, 00,000 plus stamps in existence and circulation up to the year 2000, which is a very big volume. Add to this the average of about 10,000 different types of stamps being produced annually in recent times and you get an idea about how vast the ocean of stamp collecting really is. Thus one realizes that for anyone who wants to make a foray into this field, there would never really be a shortage of material to further his or her hobby.

- Mrs. Nagalakshmi Tadakaluri, Philatelist.

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