Stamp collecting, or the art of paying homage to history and culture

Since the introduction of the Penny Black in 1840 until the present day, postage stamps have evolved and become a collector's item.

BY Àngela Zorrilla | 14 June 2024

The year was 1840. In the United Kingdom, Rowland Hill invented what was to be the first postage stamp as proof of payment for conveyance. Over time, stamps acquired a special symbolic value that has made them, decade after decade, true collectors' items. Philatelists, who love stamp collecting, have an infinite number of opportunities.

It is true that, in the era of new technologies, it is now more common to send an e-mail than a postcard or a letter by post. But the passion for stamps remains intact. Philatelic experts estimate that there are around 50 million stamp collectors around the world. Many of them seek rare stamps or stamps that have defects because, as is also the case with coins or banknotes, this increases their resale value among stamp collectors.

More than just gathering stamps

Philately, as well as being a popular hobby, is a way of paying tribute to past cultures and history. There are stamps honouring politicians and writers, or commemorating events that changed the future of countries. It is, therefore, about going beyond the act of collecting stamps. Most collectors research the history of each of their treasures: they study their design, issue, printing and context, and look for rarities that can increase their value.

Given the number of options, the first step before starting a stamp collection is to decide whether you want new or used stamps. It is true that some people have mixed collections, but philatelic experts advise against that. The most difficult to find are usually used stamps, which take more time and will not be as easy to locate. On the other hand, it is easier to get hold of a new stamp and, generally, they command higher prices.

Country collections or theme-based collections are common. In the first case, stamps are collected and acquired from specific countries covering different periods. The easiest to complete are collections of stamps from countries that have only recently become independent; on the other hand, putting together a complete collection from countries such as France, Spain or Great Britain is very difficult... and expensive. Thematic collections are also on the rise and allow you to choose a specific motif, such as aeroplanes, flowers, animals, royal weddings...

Exchange and collector's groups

In order to know whether a stamp is suitable to be added to a collection, philatelic experts analyse, among other things, the integrity of the paper or whether the paper is folded, ripped or torn. It is also important to ensure that the stamps are free from mould or stains, usually brown in colour, caused by oxidation.

There are collectors whose goal is to obtain financial gain from their collection. Most stamps are not very valuable, but it is advisable to check catalogues or specialised websites to determine their value. To meet other collectors and even to exchange stamps, collectors' groups are perfect. There are face-to-face events and online forums. These philatelic clubs offer excellent opportunities, such as fairs or exhibitions, to meet other stamp lovers and fans of philately.

Four of the rarest and most high-value stamps in the world

Z Grill: This Benjamin Franklin stamp dates from 1868 and is one of the most valuable stamps in the United States. There are only two in the whole world, and it is included in the catalogue of the rarest stamps in the world.
Missionsries of Hawaii: In 1849, the Hawaiian government established its first post office. Ten years later, it issued the first postage stamps, which were used by missionaries. Initially they were worth 2, 5 and 13 cents. In 2015, one of these stamps was sold for 125,000 euros.
Mauritius stamps: Created in the British colony, they have a peculiarity. In a print run of 500 units that was issued in 1847, the text Post Office appears. A year later, that text was changed to Post Paid, and this error made them one of the most sought-after stamps. In 1993, they were selling for $4 million.
Inverted Jenny: A printing error in 1918 made these stamps unique. Only one sheet of 100 stamps was sold for 24 cents each. Recently, a buyer paid more than 2 million euros for it at an auction in New York.