If you decide to collect
mint stamps,
(unused stamps with full glue)
you should not use hinges to mount them.
Polystyrene Stamp Mounts,
such as those made by Showguard
should be used for mounting your mint collection.
Stamp Hinges are
fine for mounting a used stamp collection and cost a good deal less than the
polystyrene mounts.
Dust,
humidity,
excessive
heat,
and light
cause damage to your stamps over the long term. Storing your stamps in
albums that include a dust cover or in a cabinet that has a closable door or
cover will protect your stamps from dust. Normal indoor light,
(non-florescent)
will not harm your stamps, however avoid exposing them to florescent light
or direct sunlight. If your home is Air
Conditioned,
as most are today, humidity should not be a problem.
(Exposure to High Humidity can cause your stamps to
stick to the album or to each other.)
Another area of damage is caused by
handling your stamps with bare hands. Your hands contain a natural oil that
will over time damage and prematurely age your stamps. The best way to avoid
this is to always use a good pair of
Stamp Tongs when handling your stamps
or covers. Do not use regular tweezers as they usually have sharp points
which might tear or puncture the stamp.
Stamp Tongs are made especially for
handling stamps without damage and can be purchased from any stamp dealer.
After you decide on the type of stamp
collection you want to start, you should buy the largest
Album/s you can
reasonably afford. If you purchase one that is too small, you will soon have
to transfer your stamps to a larger one increasing the possibility of
damaging them.
Stamp Collecting Accessories,
our next section covers the albums and stamp collecting supplies that will
enhance your collecting experience and protect your investment.