Stamp Collecting Albums: The Secret To Preserve Your Stamp Collection
Stamp Collecting Albums: The Secret To Preserve Your Stamp Collection
The gradual degradation of stamps is one of the most important issues facing any collector, and one that can be easily solved by using stamp collecting albums. We all want to preserve our precious inventory for its inherent enjoyment, and we'd also like to pass them on to future generations. The problem, of course, is that as the stamps age, the more fragile they become. Atmospheric conditions can certainly take their toll on a person's stamp collection, often without the owner realizing it.
What is a savvy collector to do? No one wants to spend time, energy, and money on a hobby only to discover that it has been degraded or even ruined as years go by. The fact is, a few prudent procedures can make the difference between success and heartbreak, and should be judiciously followed. Specifically, will focus on the employment of quality stamp collecting albums. This article was written to assist all stamp collectors in maintaining their precious resource.
Here are three vital points to consider concerning stamp collecting albums:
Stamp Collecting Albums Point #1: Why Are They Important?
The answer to this question should be self-evident. Is a well-known fact that pollutants in the air will continually degrade your stamp collection unless protective measures are taken. After all, a stamp is nothing more than a little piece of paper with ink on one side and adhesive on the other. All three of these elements are subject to degradation as time goes on, and so it follows that the value of any stamp is dependent upon its ability to withstand the aging process. For example, heat and moisture will often cause discoloration and fading. Along the same lines, dirt and dust will act as corrosive agents which also cause devaluation of your stamps.
Stamp Collecting Albums Point #2: What Kind Should I Buy?
Albums can be found in many different styles and price ranges. Consequently, it may take some time to study the available choices in order to make the best purchasing decision. In the interim, a serious collector should consider a temporary storage product made of glassine. Glassine is a thin, transparent paper-like product that offers the best temporary protection on the market.
These products work very well for their intended purpose, but should not be considered for permanent storage. The permanent storage facility should offer a dust-free environment, but not necessarily air tight. It is a known fact that stamps actually require a little room to breathe. If none is provided, then the aging process of your stamps will actually be accelerated. All these factors should be taken into consideration and factored in to your budgetary constraints prior to purchase.
Eventually, once the final decision has been made, then the stamps should be transferred with a minimum of human touch to the new, permanent, album. It is highly recommended that you use a pair of tweezers or similar instrument to facilitate the transfer without the danger of adding natural skin oil to your stamps.
Stamp Collecting Albums Point #3: Where Should I Buy Them?
Okay, now that you understand the necessity of acquiring a high quality storage facility, it is time for the purchase. Where does a smart collector go for such a critical piece of their stamp collection? One alternative is to check out a local hobby shop. They typically have employees who are knowledgeable, and quite possibly are stamp collectors themselves. Consequently, they'll be in a good position to assist you in the purchasing decision. The drawback, of course, is that a local hobby shop is typically more expensive than other alternatives. You might find a better deal in big-box retailers such as Wall-Mart or Target, but it is doubtful that you will find anybody employed in these kinds of stores that understand stamp collecting. My favorite alternative is to shop online. Outlets such as Amazon.com or eBay.com provide information and comparisons, and also have exceptional pricing. In addition, they offer a good return policy should you have second thoughts about your purchase.
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