Who Buys Old Stamps Near Me
If you’re like most stamp collectors, you probably have an interest in selling off a few from your collection. Or perhaps you just inherited some old stamps and are looking for a buyer. Whatever the case may be, if you’re wondering who buys old stamps near me, we will address that and the most frequently asked questions below.
Map of Who Buys Old Stamps Near Me
For “Who Buys Old Stamps Near Me”, see the map below…
Get an Appraisal Before Seeking a Stamp Buyer
Before considering selling to someone who buys old stamps near me, I would encourage you to get your stamps value appraised. Knowing the value upfront will help you negotiate and not get taken advantage of.
You can find a local appraiser and worse case you can contact the American Philatelic Society for help.
Who Buys Old Stamps Near Me
The answer to who buys old stamps near me is any number of local stamp dealers, stamp shops, auction houses, or local private collectors. However, there may be some other online options to sell old stamps as well.
Stamp Dealer Who Buys Stamps
The most common place to sell old stamps is through a stamp dealer. Many different dealers buy and sell stamps, both online and offline. Dealers will not give you the full value of your old stamp as they are in the business of buying and selling. They need to have room to make a profit when they resell it. Find stamp dealers here.
Another great resource for finding who buys old stamps near me is the American Philatelic Society’s Dealer Directory. Here you can search by city or state to find a list of local dealers.
Stamp Shop Who Buys Stamps
Stamp shops are businesses that focus on stamps and usually buy and sell them. They may give you a better deal than the dealer, as they want to keep your business, however similar to a dealer they won’t pay the full value. They need to have room to make a profit when they resell it. Find stamp shops here.
Local Private Collector Who Buys Stamps
Another option is a local private collector. You can find these by searching online, asking at your local stamp shop, finding a local stamp club, or attending stamp shows.
This is often the highest-paying option. Stamp collectors tend to buy and hold and therefore tend to pay the most.
Stamp Auction Houses
Another option who buys old stamps near me is an auction house that specializes in stamps. These are great places to sell if you have very valuable or rare stamps as they will likely bring in more money than selling to a dealer or shop.
However, be aware that auction houses will likely take a commission of 10-20% or more.
Sotheby’s and Christie’s are two of the most popular international auction houses that sell stamps.
Online Options for Who Buys Stamps Near Me
If you don’t mind shipping your old stamps, then there are a number of online options as well. Just bear in mind if you have a large valuable collection you will need to insure it and protect it in transit.
eBay
eBay is probably the most popular option and they even have a dedicated “Stamp Seller Community” page with tips on shipping, setting up your listings, etc.
Hipstamp
Another popular option is Hipstamp, which is an online marketplace specifically for stamps. They also have some great resources for stamp sellers, including a shipping guide.
Facebook Marketplace
You can also check Facebook Marketplace as there are usually several stamp collectors and dealers who buy and sell stamps on there. Some of the largest collector clubs have Facebook Groups and the marketplace is a frequent topic of conversation.
Where to Get the Most Money for Old Stamps
Do you want the highest price possible? Then selling to a local private collector or at auction may be the best option. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t get a good price from a dealer or shop.
It depends on the value of your collection and how much time and effort you want to put into finding the right buyer who buys old stamps near me. If you have a valuable collection, then it may be worth seeking out a specialist who deals in that area or taking it to the auction.
If you have a more common collection, then a local stamp shop or dealer would likely be the best option as they are more likely to give you a fair price and be able to resell it quickly.
How Do I Know the Value of My Stamp Collection?
The best way to get an accurate valuation of your collection is to take it to a reputable stamp appraiser. They will be able to give you a good idea of the value and may even make you an offer on the spot.
Another option is to find a local stamp club and ask for a referral to a qualified appraiser. When selling your stamps, it’s always a good idea to get multiple appraisals to ensure you are getting the best possible price.
You can also do a free appraisal using online tools in which you submit a photograph and information about the stamp. In my opinion, this is not as good or accurate, but it’s free so there is no risk.
What Makes an Old Stamp Valuable
Several factors can make old stamps valuable.
The most important factor is the rarity. A stamp that was only issued for a short time or in small numbers is going to be worth more than one that was issued for a long time or in large numbers.
Another important factor is the condition. A stamp that is in perfect condition is going to be worth more than one that is not.
Finally, certain stamps have historic or sentimental value. For example, a stamp that was used during a significant event or one that features a famous person is going to be worth more than a regular stamp.
Some Issues Devalue a Stamp
While several factors can make a stamp valuable, some issues will devalue it.
The most common issue is a canceled stamp. A stamp that has been used and canceled is not going to be worth as much as one that has never been used. A canceled stamp will have an ink mark through it.
Other issues include the picture being off-center, the perforations being cut off, or a faded graphic. Any imperfections are considered devaluing. Damage is also a common issue on older stamps. This can be anything from a small tear to water damage.
You should also be mindful that forgeries and counterfeits are a big problem in the stamp world. These are fake stamps that have been made to look like the real thing. They are often passed off as genuine stamps, so it’s important to be aware of them.
Who Buys Old Stamps Near Me – Conclusion
When considering who buys old stamps near me, there are several options to choose from. Each has its pros and cons, so it depends on what is most important to you as the seller.
The most common places to sell old stamps are through stamp dealers, stamp shops, or online. However, the highest prices are usually paid by local private collectors or at auction. If you have rare or valuable stamps, then selling at auction may be the best option. Otherwise, consider a dealer or shop who buys old stamps near me.
